River Island State Park is ideal for tent campers and can provide a scenic respite, a desert escape, or a fun-filled water adventure. It offers 37 campsites, a ramada, sandy beach, cove, and boat launch area. The park has a trail for hiking and access to off-highway vehicle back country roads. The River Island Market, located 1/4 mile outside the park, offers groceries, food deli, gas, clothing boutique and storage.
In the summer, the park unit is most popular for boating, fishing, jet skiing, swimming, and camping amidst a backdrop of beautiful mountains. In the winter, visitors appreciate the mild climate and enjoy camping and fishing. River Island State Park is a year-round destination for those looking to discover a variety of recreational and cultural resources.
Swimming on the Colorado River
River Island State Park is a popular swimming spot to escape the summer heat. The beach spans the riverfront of the park, which is tucked away in a cove and protected from the river's current. It is also a good place to beach a boat and relax for awhile as the river floats by.
- Comfortable footwear is recommended to wear during your swimming experience because some rocky areas are located within the designated swimming area.
- If sun bathing on shore, we recommend a light mat to place under your towel for added comfort.
- Do not swim near boat ramps or docks.
- The river's temperature can vary from temperate in the shallows to near-freezing in open water. if you're concerned about temperature drops in the water, be sure and bring an insulated swimming outfit, like a thermal swimming suit.
- In all situations, swimmers should exercise caution. There is no lifeguard on duty, so swimming is at your own risk.
Fishing on the Colorado River
This park has fishing with Largemouth and smallmouth bass, catfish, bluegill, carp and striper being common.
A valid Arizona fishing license is required for anglers 10 years and older. Licensing information is available online at Arizona Game & Fish, or purchase a fishing license at a local dealer.
Boating
Boat Ramp
Three lanes located in calm cove. Launch ramp parking has 20 boat-length deep spaces. Cove is a no wake zone. HAZARD: Island reef is located in the center of the cove. Hug cliffs to access Main River Channel. Observe all navigational aides (buoys).
Non-Motorized Watercraft
Non-motorized watercraft may launch at the boat ramp.
Camping & RV Sites
River Island offers 37 total campsites. Eight beachfront campsites on the grass overlooking Colorado River with 20-amp service and water. These sites are good for tents and small campers up to 24 feet. The other 29 sites are ideal for RV camping (up to 65 feet deep) with 50, 30, and 20-amp service, all with water. Ten are back-in sites and 19 are pull-throughs. Tents are also allowed in these sites
Trails
Wedge Hill Trail
The Wedge Hill Trail is approximately ½ mile in length. It heads uphill for a moderate hike overlooking Colorado River. The trail offers great views Colorado River and Parker Dam. It is also good for watching local wildlife. The trailhead is located east of launch ramp.
The trails here connect with those of Buckskin Mountain State Park and give hikers the opportunity explore several miles of Colorado River area real estate.
Watchable Wildlife at River Island State Park
Wildlife viewing opportunities are possible within the park which may seem surprising to unsuspecting visitors! Arizona’s deserts provide healthy, unique habitats for a variety of birds and animals in an extremely arid setting. The wildlife that abounds here is specially designed to thrive within such a harsh environment. Bighorn sheep, desert mule deer, coyotes, bobcats, and a variety of smaller mammals and reptiles can be experienced in and around this gorgeous little park on the Colorado River.
