Copper Basin Dunes OHV Area | Arizona
Within the Parker Strip Recreation Area, Copper Basin Dunes OHV Area offers an unrestricted playground for off-highway vehicles (OHV) use. Visitors can explore approximately 1,200 acres of open dunes and varied desert terrain.
The site includes a developed staging area with asphalt parking and unloading ramp. There is one picnic table and grill. There are no shade structure or potable water on site, so visitors should plan accordingly and bring sufficient supplies.
Copper Basin Dunes accommodates a wide range of OHVs, including dirt bikes, ATVs, UTVs, dune buggies, and more. Riders are encouraged to operate at safe speeds especially in unfamiliar terrain and watch for other riders. Helmets and appropriate protective gear are strongly recommended, as even low speed or short rides can lead to serious injuries.
Vehicles must be street legal or have state-required off-highway vehicle decals.
A variety of food, lodging, fuel and other visitor services are available along Parker Dam Road. Nearby public recreation opportunities include BLM’s Crossroads Campground and Crossroads OHV Area, as well as several developed day-use sites; Cable Car Day Use Area, Quail Hollow Day Use Area, Bullfrog Day Use Area, and the Rock House Visitor Center.
Hours and Seasons
Copper Basin Dunes OHV Area is open all year. Weather is most comfortable in spring and fall, though early morning summer rides can also be pleasant.
Features and Services
- Cell Phone and Internet: There is no public internet or Wi-Fi.
- Pets: Service dogs are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go. Please pack out all waste.
Safety and Conditions
You are responsible for your own safety. Call 911 to contact local law enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire.
While enjoying your visit, keep in mind that there is no first aid available on-site.
Tell someone your plan: where you're going, when you’ll be back, and who to call if you don’t return.
Check your tires, brakes, lights, fuel, and fluids before heading out. Bring water, snacks, a first-aid kit, tools, and a map or GPS. Use proper gear such as goggles, gloves, long sleeves, pants, and boots to protect against debris and sun.
Respect and Protect
Please remember to practice outdoor ethics and recreate responsibly. Remember the Tread Lightly! Principles: Travel Responsibly, Respect the Rights of Others, Educate Yourself, Avoid Sensitive Areas, and Do Your Part.
Check for fire restrictions before your visit. Using exploding targets, fireworks, sky lanterns, tracer ammunition and other incendiary devices is prohibited on BLM-managed public land in Arizona.
All OHVs designed by the manufacturer primarily for use over unimproved terrain, and weigh 2,500 pounds or less, are required by law to display a valid Arizona OHV decal or a valid California OHV decal to operate on public and state trust lands in this day-use area. Get more information from the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
There are no toilet facilities at the site but there are ADA compliant facilities at the other nearby day-use area.
Contact Us
Activities
Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
Copper Basin Dunes Off-Highway Vehicle Area is part of the Parker Strip Recreation Area.
From Lake Havasu City, this open area is about 45 minutes south of town. Visitors will need to drive over the Parker Dam onto the California side of the Colorado River. (Note: Oversized vehicles and vehicles towing trailers are not permitted to cross the dam.) Located about 5 miles south of the Parker Dam on the California side of the Colorado River turn right at the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) sign.
From Parker, drive north across the bridge over the Colorado River and turn right. Copper Basin Dunes Off Highway Vehicle Area will be 17 miles ahead on your left.
Fees
Copper Basin Dunes OHV Area is free (no fee required) for general visits by the public.
Commercial, competitive, and large organized group events require a special recreation permit. Contact the local managing field office for more information about special recreation permits.