Carl’s Camp

For Arizona locals seeking an authentic and truly rustic outdoor adventure, "Carl’s Camp" in Kingman offers a glimpse into a very traditional, no-frills camping experience. Located at 29 D St, Kingman, AZ 86401, this isn't your typical developed campground with paved sites and extensive amenities. Instead, it appears to be a plot of land that embodies the spirit of dispersed camping – a place where you bring everything you need and leave no trace behind. It’s perfect for those who truly want to immerse themselves in the quiet solitude of the Arizona desert and connect directly with nature, far from the crowds.

The charm of Carl's Camp lies in its simplicity and raw appeal. As described by previous visitors, it's "just a plot of land," inviting campers to create their own experience. This kind of setting is highly sought after by seasoned Arizona outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize privacy, direct access to natural surroundings, and a sense of self-sufficiency over organized facilities. It’s a place where the local wildlife – from ground squirrels to kangaroo rats and even marmots – can become your neighbors, making for unique and memorable encounters. Carl's Camp represents a return to the basics of camping, focusing on the natural environment rather than manufactured comforts.

Carl's Camp is situated in Kingman, Arizona, with the address 29 D St, Kingman, AZ 86401, USA. Kingman itself is a historic city in Mohave County, located along the famous Route 66, I-40, and US 93, making it a gateway to numerous outdoor attractions in Northwestern Arizona. While the specific street address might suggest a residential or more urban setting, the nature of "Carl's Camp" as a "plot of land" points towards it being a unique, perhaps privately-owned, informal camping spot that has been utilized for primitive camping.

Accessibility to such a location in Kingman would typically involve navigating paved city streets initially, then potentially transitioning to unpaved roads or tracks depending on the exact positioning of this "plot of land." Given its description, it's likely a spot that is easily reachable by most vehicles, though specific conditions might vary with weather. For locals, Kingman is a convenient hub, often serving as a base for exploring surrounding areas like the Hualapai Mountains, Lake Mead, and various BLM (Bureau of Land Management) lands that offer extensive opportunities for dispersed camping. Visitors should be prepared to use GPS coordinates or detailed local maps to pinpoint the exact location, as it's not a formally signed campground. It's always advisable to verify current conditions and access with local resources if possible, though for a location described as a "plot of land," information might be minimal, adding to its adventurous appeal.

• Primitive Camping: Carl's Camp is primarily a location for primitive or dispersed camping. This means there are no developed facilities such as designated campsites, restrooms, potable water, or trash services.

• Self-Sufficiency Required: Campers must be entirely self-sufficient, bringing in all their own water, food, shelter, and sanitation supplies. It adheres to the "pack it in, pack it out" principle, where all waste, including human waste, must be removed from the site.

• Open Land for Tent Camping/Dry Camping: The "plot of land" description suggests it's suitable for tent camping or dry camping for RVs/vans that are self-contained. There are no hookups for water, electricity, or sewer.

• Wildlife Interaction: As noted by a reviewer, the area is home to various ground squirrels, kangaroo rats, and pack rats. While not a "service," the opportunity to observe these desert creatures up close is a unique aspect of camping here.

• Freedom and Flexibility: Without designated sites or strict rules often found in developed campgrounds, Carl's Camp offers significant freedom in choosing your setup location and enjoying a more flexible camping experience.

• Authentic Arizona Desert Experience: This location provides a genuine immersion into the rugged, beautiful Arizona desert landscape, complete with unique flora and fauna. It's an opportunity to experience the true essence of the Kingman area's natural environment.

• Solitude and Privacy: Being an undeveloped plot of land, Carl's Camp offers a high degree of solitude and privacy, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet escape from urban noise and crowds. This is a significant draw for many experienced campers.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The presence of various small desert animals like marmots, ground squirrels, kangaroo rats, and pack rats provides unique opportunities for wildlife observation. Visitors are encouraged to bring "nuts for the marmot" (though responsible feeding practices should always be followed, and wild animals should not become dependent on human food).

• Stargazing: Far from city lights, the Arizona desert offers spectacular dark skies, making Carl's Camp an excellent spot for stargazing and astronomical observation.

• Basecamp for Regional Exploration: Its location in Kingman makes it a potential basecamp for exploring wider regional attractions such as historic Route 66, the Grand Canyon (west rim), Lake Havasu City, and the Hualapai Mountains. While the camp itself is primitive, the surrounding area offers various adventures.

• "Free" Camping (Implied): As a primitive, undeveloped plot, it's highly likely that camping at Carl's Camp is free, a major highlight for budget-conscious travelers and locals seeking affordable outdoor recreation.

Address: 29 D St, Kingman, AZ 86401, USA

Given that "Carl's Camp" is described as "just a plot of land" and is not a formally recognized, managed campground with published contact details, there is no direct phone number or website for reservations or inquiries. This type of location operates on an informal basis, emphasizing self-reliance.

For general information about dispersed camping regulations in the Kingman area or on nearby public lands (such as BLM or Forest Service lands), locals can contact the relevant government offices:

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Kingman Field Office:

Phone: (928) 718-3700

It is always advisable to check with the BLM or other local land management agencies regarding fire restrictions, Leave No Trace principles, and any other regulations pertinent to primitive camping in the wider Kingman region to ensure a safe and responsible visit.

Carl's Camp, in its unique and informal nature as "just a plot of land," is exceptionally well-suited for Arizona locals who truly embody the spirit of desert adventure and self-sufficient camping. For many Arizonans, the allure of the state lies in its vast, undeveloped expanses and the profound solitude they offer. Carl's Camp delivers precisely this – an opportunity to escape the concrete jungle and popular, often crowded, developed campgrounds, allowing for a deep immersion in the raw beauty of the Mohave Desert.

The emphasis on primitive camping at Carl's Camp aligns perfectly with the "pack it in, pack it out" ethos that responsible Arizona outdoor enthusiasts practice. It fosters a sense of independence and environmental stewardship, as campers are solely responsible for their impact. This type of experience is invaluable for honing wilderness skills, from setting up camp without amenities to understanding local wildlife and practicing responsible waste management. The simple joy of waking up surrounded by the desert landscape, with only the sounds of nature and the potential for charming encounters with local critters like ground squirrels, offers a profound sense of peace and disconnection that is a rare commodity in today's fast-paced world.

Furthermore, for locals, Carl's Camp serves as an incredibly accessible and likely free option for camping, making it a flexible choice for spontaneous weekend trips or even a quick overnight escape from Kingman itself. It's a place where one can truly unwind under the vast Arizona sky, experiencing spectacular sunsets and unparalleled stargazing without the distractions of artificial light or noise. For those who understand and appreciate the rugged beauty of the Arizona desert, Carl's Camp offers an authentic, unadulterated camping experience that embodies the very essence of living in and exploring the Grand Canyon State.