New OHV Staging Area at Buckskin Mountain Expands River Recreation

Arizona State Parks finished Phase 1 of a new off highway vehicle staging area in 2025, creating a designated place for OHV riders to park trailers, perform safety checks and access nearby trails between Buckskin Mountain and River Island state parks. The two parks are the principal state park recreation areas serving the Parker Strip and together provide year round river recreation, riverfront camping, public boat launches, day use beaches and short desert trails that showcase river vistas and local geology.

The staging area offers a kiosk and connections that extend toward the Arizona Peace Trail, while officials say the facility will ease pressure on roadways and campsites during peak weekends. That congestion relief has practical public safety and fiscal implications. Safer staging and clearer parking rules can lower the incidence of roadside parking and launch area crowding, which reduces emergency response costs and the need for ad hoc enforcement in a corridor that already supports boating, fishing, birding and riverfront camping.

Local economic effects are likely to be positive. The Parker Strip economy depends on seasonal visitor spending at marinas, outfitters, food and fuel vendors, and short term lodging. By expanding controlled access for OHV riders and preserving complementary boat access for powerboats, kayaks and tube floats, the new staging area should support year round visitation patterns while smoothing peak season strain. Visitors to Buckskin Mountain and River Island can also use short trails such as the Lightning Bolt Trail and the Wedge Hill and River Island trails, and the area is an important stop for hundreds of waterfowl, shore and desert bird species, a draw for birders and naturalists.

Visitors should plan ahead. Campsites include riverfront and upland options and reservations are available through Arizona State Parks when offered. Seasonal changes to campsite availability can occur during park projects and high use weekends, so check the park website or phone line for current availability and temporary closures. River safety remains essential, including life jackets for all boaters, watching for changing river flows and launching only from designated ramps. Practice leave no trace principles, pack out trash, observe posted campfire rules and respect wildlife, especially during migratory seasons.