An overlooking view of nature in Buckskin Mountain State Park

Picturesque Buckskin Mountain State Park lies along the historic Colorado River in Parker, Arizona only 30 minutes south of Lake Havasu City. This beautiful recreational area is along the Parker Strip, between Parker Dam and Headgate Dam, and connects to nearby River Island State Park.

Visitors enjoy exploring the miles of wilderness trails in this Arizona state park plus camping, fishing, boating, swimming and nature watching all year round.

Activities at Buckskin Mountain State Park

During your visit to Buckskin Mountain State Park you’ll have access to grassy picnic areas with tables and grills, miles of trails, water activities, a playground, basketball and volleyball courts, an arcade, restaurant, park store and exhibits within the visitor center.

The visitor center’s exhibits feature the park’s history and native flora and fauna. Its gift shop carries souvenirs, apparel, snacks, drinks and supplies.

Encourage younger generations to do their part and help preserve the beauty of the parks for future generations to come. If your child is between the ages of 6-12 they can become a Junior Ranger at Buckskin Mountain State Park. All they need to do is download and complete the Junior Ranger Activity Sheet and then request a Junior Ranger booklet at the park’s visitor center once you’ve arrived at the park.

Complete each of the activities during your stay. When all of the activities have been completed report back to a Park Ranger who will swear your Junior Ranger in and award them with a Junior Ranger button.

Here are some more activities that you can do during your visit Buckskin Mountain State Park:

Swimming at Buckskin Mountain State Park

Escape the heat and take a refreshing dip in the Colorado River. Buckskin Mountain State Park has a designated swimming area for guests to safely enjoy the water. For your safety do not swim near the docks, boat ramps or the dam.

The shoreline is rocky so consider wearing something on your feet and bring something to sit on (if you plan on resting along the shore). Water temperatures vary greatly depending upon time of year and how far out you swim so plan ahead and wear a wetsuit or long sleeve swimsuit if you plan to swim far or visit off season.

Boating at Buckskin Mountain State Park

Spend a day out on the Colorado River during your visit to Buckskin Mountain State Park. Bring your own boat or rent one at nearby Parker Boat Rentals. Kayaking, canoeing and tubing are popular choices.

Ramps are located inside the park and available for both overnight guests and day-use visitors. Any non-motorized watercraft may be launched from the boat ramps.

Fishing at Buckskin Mountain State Park

Fish from shore or boat during your visit to Buckskin Mountain State Park. The Colorado River is a great place to catch bass (smallmouth, largemouth and striped), catfish, carp, sunfish, crappie and bluegill.

Remember to pick up an Arizona fishing license ahead of time. A fishing license is required for anyone over the age of 10.

Trails at Buckskin Mountain State Park

Buckskin Mountain State Park has an extensive trail system that leads into the Arizona backcountry, along the Colorado River and over to River Island State Park. While exploring these trails you’ll experience breathtaking views of the mountains, desert wildlife and wildflowers, nature-formed arches and bridges and abandoned copper mines.

Here are a few of the popular trails at Buckskin Mountain State Park:

  • The Lamb Springs Trail/Abandoned Mine Trail – Moderate 2.3 mile trail that connects to nearby River Island State Park. This trail may be isolated in sections so prepare ahead before setting off through the western Arizona desert.
  • The Lightning Bolt Trail – Moderate 3 mile loop that starts by the park entrance and steeply climbs up and around for spectacular views of the river, desert, wildflowers and wildlife around the park.
  • Buckskin Trail – Moderate 6.8 mile loop that starts from the Lightning Bolt Trail and leads past several scenic overlooks, two abandoned mine shafts and lots of vegetation and wildlife. Benches are scattered throughout this long trail for guests to take a break and enjoy the views.

Wildlife Viewing at Buckskin Mountain State Park

The mountain, desert and river provide a secure home for many species of wildlife. During your visit you’ll have the opportunity to see many native and migrating birds such as osprey, egrets, red-tailed hawks, hummingbirds and pelicans. Bighorn sheep, bobcat, coyote, gray foxes, beavers, rabbits, snakes, lizards and iguana are common wildlife that you may see.

Camping at Buckskin Mountain State Park

Buckskin Mountain State Park has 60 campsites and 21 RV riverfront sites. All sites have water and 30-amp electric connections (many also have sewer hookups). Each campsite also has a picnic table and BBQ grill and is close to modern bathhouses.

Pets at Buckskin Mountain State Park

Pets are allowed at Lake Havasu State Park but must be attended to at all times and kept on a leash no longer than six-feet. Please clean up after your pet.

Attractions Near Buckskin Mountain State Park

River Island State Park 5200 AZ-95, Parker

This separate second developed area along the Colorado River is 1.4 miles from Buckskin Mountain State Park. Provides more opportunities for camping, boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and access to OHV trails.

Cattail Cove State Park AZ-95, Lake Havasu City

White sandy beach, trails, primitive camping and access to shopping and dining, only 14 miles from Buckskin Mountain State Park.

Lake Havasu State Park

699 London Bridge Rd, Lake Havasu City
Visit beautiful Lake Havasu, the famous London Bridge and shops, restaurants and more only 30 miles from Buckskin Mountain State Park.

Park Location

Buckskin Mountain State Park
5476 AZ-95
Parker, AZ 85344
Phone: 928.667.3231

Website
Reservations

Park Entrance Fees:
Per Vehicle (1-4 Adults): $10.00
Individual/Bicycle: $3.00

Map

Video

Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Buckskin Mountain State Park: