Lake Havasu is a desert oasis in Western, Arizona. Part of the Colorado river waterway, which forms the border between Arizona and California. An incredible blue sparkling fresh water playground, surrounded by the Mojave and Sonoran deserts. Within a couple hours drive of Las Vegas and Phoenix, it provides many the opportunity to enjoy water sports, off roading, and more.
Formed with the completion of the Parker Dam in 1938, Lake Havasu is foremost a reservoir, created to store enough water to supply major cities in Arizona and California with drinking water. In 1964 the planned community of Lake Havasu City was created on the shores of the lake. Founder Robert P. McCulloch a prominent business man and real estate developer, on advice from his real estate agent, decided to purchase the London Bridge when it went up for auction. It was a successful investment which is still paying dividends.
Today, almost fifty thousand people live year round in Lake Havasu, with the population swelling to seventy thousand in the winter months. Additionally, over two and a half million people visit the area annually. We happened upon Lake Havasu our first winter full-timing in our RV. We have spent part of every winter here since. To say there is something for everyone is an understatement. I will do my best to highlight some of our favorite activities! .
Lake Havasu
In my opinion, Lake Havasu is the home of the best sunsets and sunrises! A tropical paradise right here in the Arizona desert. Much of this piece will talk about the enormous amount of outdoor activities one can do while they’re here. In addition, to the variety and abundance recreational activities the city is nicely equipped with places to re-fuel and re-supply. Over a hundred restaurants of all types, pubs, breweries, fast food and fine dinning options. Your choice of several major grocery chains as well as major pharmacy’s. There are even many automotive, RV, Boat and OHV repair and supply shops.
Entertainment and the arts are also well represented in the community. Many murals and rock art exist throughout the city. Galleries and retail art shops, as well as the Havasu Art center, which is a co-op of local artists, provide access to a variety of local art. Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the crafts and history of the area.
Grace Arts Live is located on Main Street and provides opportunities to see live theater year round. The theater produces a variety of high quality shows and performances. Jess and I love a night at the theater and Grace Arts is a gem. In my opinion the ticket prices are a steel for the quality of the productions.
If listening to live bands is your passion, Lake Havasu will not disappoint. Typically many bands are playing at various venues across the city on a regular bases. Whatever your favorite genre, if you look, you’re likely to find it here. Afternoon happy hour food and drink specials combined with a live band is a wonderful way to spend a few hours after a great hike.
London Bridge
The infamous bridge in the Arizona desert. I remember a “joke” my dad used to tell about having a bridge to sell in the desert, I’m sure he was probably referring to Lake Havasu’s London Bridge. The brain child of the city’s founder and development team. It was purchased for 2.4 million dollars, all the stones numbered, dismantled, and then shipped from London through the Panama Canal to California, loaded on trucks and driven to Lake Havasu.
The bridge attracts visitors from all over the world and it is the most popular man-made tourist attraction in Arizona. The London bridge connects the island to the mainland and spans 930′ over Bridgewater Channel. The English village located below the bridge creates the feel of home for any British tourists visiting the area. Fish and chip specials, fountains, retro red english phone booth, and several restaurants and pubs.
Amazingly, like many things in Lake Havasu, Bridgewater Channel is man-made and did not exist before the bridge was reconstructed. Upon completion of the bridge the channel was dug, creating the island. Today the channel provides waterfront beaches, shops and restaurants. It is the heart of the city. Boaters, swimmers, and paddlers are welcome to enjoy the channel.
Lake Havasu Lighthouse Club
Lake Havasu lighthouse club builds and maintains twenty eight replica and functional lighthouses. The group is a nonprofit, with a mission to provide navigational aid along the lake. Lake Havasu is 45 miles long, through a mostly non-descript undeveloped desert landscape, with many dangerous twists and turns. Navigating is difficult for boaters and fisherman alike, especially if they get caught out after dark.
The lighthouses are functional and regulated by the U.S. Coast Guard. Lighthouses located on the island are replicas of Great Lake Lighthouses. The ones on the California shore are based on lighthouses found on the west coast of the United States as the Arizona shore lighthouses are based on East Coast lighthouses.
These lighthouses provide boaters, hikers, and rescue personnel specific information about their locations in the event of an emergency. Additionally many visitors to the area come to see the replicas and learn about their history. Thus providing another unique tourist attraction in Lake Havasu. To read more about these lighthouses check out another blog that we wrote: Lake Havasu Lighthouses.
Island Trail
The Island trail is 3.6 miles long and paved. It was built in the early 1980’s by Lake Havasu City as a place for people to exercise. The trail welcomes walkers, dogs on leash, and bicycle riders. Walkers are encouraged to walk in a counter clockwise direction and bicyclists in a clockwise direction. The trail has been recently re-built and re-paved. It provides wonderful lake views along the 360 degree tour of the island.
The Island Trail easily connects to the Lake Havasu City multi-use trail, simply by riding across the London Bridge. This trail is also paved and runs 8.5 miles alongside Arizona Highway 95. It runs from McCulloch Blvd. S to Palo Verde Blvd. N and provides access to SARA park and additional trails. There is a significant hill climbing from the area of London Bridge to SARA park. Quite a workout, but the ride back down makes it all worth it!
Because the RV park we stay at is across the street from the Island trail we typically ride it everyday. It’s common for us to make a couple loops and we often add in a ride to SARA park. Biking the loop is one of Teddy’s favorite activities! Bikes are great transportation in Lake Havasu and we use them as much as the car.
Parker Dam
Parker Dam is located about thirty-five miles south of Lake Havasu. The dam is important for both generating power and creating the reservoir which is Lake Havasu. It is 320 feet tall, with 235 feet below the river bed. This depth was required to reach bedrock with the dams footings. It is the deepest dam in the world, and it is also the only dam in the world which has more structure underground than above.
Parker dam produces power at a 97% efficiency. Half of the power produced is used to move water via the Colorado River Aqueduct and through the Central Arizona Project. The water level fluctuates very little in Lake Havasu because it is mandated to stay between 440′-450′ above sea level. This level allows for proper operation of the pumping stations and aqueduct systems delivering water to major cities in California and Arizona. Phoenix, Tucson, Los Angeles, and San Diego are just a few of the cities depending on the Parker Dam and subsequent systems for their water supply.
If you’re interested in visiting, you’re allowed to cross the bridge by vehicle between the hours of 5am- 11pm. The dam road is closed to traffic at all other times. No pedestrians or large vehicles (including RV’s ) are allowed to cross. There are several pull-offs which provide opportunity to take pictures and explore the informative signage.
Water Sports
It is likely to find someone participating in any water sport you can imagine on a daily basis. Basics like boating, skiing, fishing, paddling, and swimming are among the most popular. However, racing high speed boats with speeds reaching 200 miles per hour is also happening in Lake Havasu. The annual Desert Storm events draw visitors to the area from all over to witness the amazing power of the boats and bravery of the drivers.
Scuba diving is another popular activity, there are many dive sites with lots of wreckage to explore. RC boat races in Bridgewater Channel. Jess and I participated in a holiday kayak and paddle board parade through the channel with hundreds of others. Full moon events and special activities are always happening, which are fun for participants as well as spectators.
There are many public boat launches for personal watercraft, as well as companies that provide tours or rentals. If you’re interested in a sunset tour or the twenty minute ferry ride to the casino across Lake Havasu to the Havasu Landing Resort & Casino, you’ll find it here.
Fishing
Lake Havasu is rated as one of the top 100 places to fish in the United States by Bassmaster Magazine. Fishing is a year-round activity and the area hosts many pro fishing tournaments annually. An Arizona or California fishing license is required to fish in the lake, as always I recommend checking local laws and regulations relating to fishing rules before casting your line.
Largemouth bass and striped bass are prevalent in the lake and many trophy bass have been caught over the years. Guides are available to provide equipment and recommendations to the best fishing techniques and locations. Or simply bring your own pole and fish from one of the many public accessible fishing piers.
Bill Williams National Wildlife Refuge
Bill Williams National Wildlife Refuge is located at 60911 Arizona Highway 95 just south of Lake Havasu along the Colorado River near Parker Dam. The park is in a unique position, their website describes the park as one of the last “ecologically functioning river habitats in the southwest United States.” The park is about 6100 acres and includes many diverse habitats.
The visitors center is wonderful and provides a lot of information pertaining to wildlife and habitat. A half-mile long peninsula trail provides a great opportunity to see local vegetation and access to many fishing piers. There are many benches and restrooms available. Just sitting on a bench watching the birds is the perfect afternoon experience.
Across the street from the visitors center is a dirt road providing access to more hiking and exploration. Jess and I have hiked in several areas and found many beautiful saguaro cactus. This is the very edge of the Sonoran desert which is also the edge of the Saguaro’s natural habitat. The Mojave desert which is to the west, provides even more species and habitats to explore. A marvelously diverse place to spend a day.
State Parks
Lake Havasu State Park
East Quoddy replica Lighthouse is located on the North End of the Bridgewater channel in Lake Havasu State Park. The original is located on Campbell Island New Brunswick, Canada. Several lighthouses are located within the park, as well as access to hiking and biking trails. The Arroyo-Camino Interpretive Garden located in the park provides an opportunity to view the diversity of plants and animals in this area.
Lake Havasu State Park is located in Lake Havasu City. Reservations are made by calling 877-MY-PARKS available seven days a week from 8am-5pm Arizona time. 54 campsites are available with 50amp service, access to potable water as well as usage of dump station and campground facilities. The park has beach access and three boat docks. A fourteen night maximum stay is enforced, as well as minimum stays during different times of the year. Check website for pricing and complete list of rules.
Cattail Cove State Park
Cattail Cove State Park is located on the shore of Lake Havasu, in Mohave County, AZ about 19 miles south of Lake Havasu City. There are 61 campsites offering electricity and water with four sites offering 50-amp service the rest offer 30-amps, The park offers a dump station, boat launch ramp, BBQ grills, Picnic tables, hiking trails and bathhouse. Dogs are welcomed Reservations made by calling 1-877-MY-PARKS, seven days a week between the hours of 8am-5pm Arizona time. Check website for details.
Day use is also available for a fee. We purchased an annual pass because of the amount of time we knew we would be spending in Arizona.
Buckskin Mountain State Park
Buckskin Mountain State Park is located south of Parker Dam on Arizona route 95. The park has 80 camping and RV sites with varying water, electrical, and sewer services. All sites include BBQ grills and picnic tables. Reservations can be made at 1-877-MY Parks.
Jess and I have hiked most of the trails in the park, which traverse a variety of terrain. One of our favorites is the Buckskin loop which provides access to explore many abandoned mines. The mines are protected by fences, but easily allow views into the mine shafts. Many of the trails can be accessed from a parking area across the park which does not require an entrance fee.
River Island State Park
River Island park is also located south of the Parker Dam along Arizona highway 95. The park offers 37 campsites with various amenities. There are some pull-through sites, big rig and tent only sites. Electricity ranging from 20-50 amp services. Grills and picnic tables are available at all sites. Call 1-877- MY PARKS for details and reservations.
River Island and Buckskin State Park are very close together along the shore of the Colorado river and are connected by trails. Sandy beaches, access to the river and OHV trails, as well as hiking and mountain biking trails provide many recreation opportunities.
Wedge Hill Trail is a wonderful hike to an incredible outlook above the Colorado river, complete with benches it is a great location to just sit and take in the views.
Site Six Launch Ramp
Site Six Launch Ramp is located at 591 Beachcomber Blvd. on the Island in Lake Havasu. It is a free public launch ramp and excellent fishing location. Additionally, there are picnic areas, restrooms, fish cleaning stations, and BBQ area.
Parks in Lake Havasu
Rotary Community Park & Playground
Rotary Park is located at 1400 Smoketree Ave. S. Forty acres of beach, Wow! Picnic areas, restrooms, playgrounds, beach volleyball, sports fields, bocce ball, skate park, protected swim areas, BBQ’s and fire pits. There is so much to do and all for free. A wonderful launching site for paddle boards and kayaks. Paddling through the canal is an amazing experience.
Our first year visiting Lake Havasu we were here to experience spring break in March. What an experience. There were many boats, kayaks, paddle boards, and mobs of college students completely occupying the massive beach. Some swimming, many playing games, others just enjoying the enormous party. We observed from across the channel at London Bridge Beach and enjoyed the energy of the place. Normally, it’s much more low key with families enjoying the park.
London Bridge Beach
London Bridge Park is located at 1340 McCulloch Blvd. N. The park runs along Bridgewater canal and provides access to a protected swimming area and beaches along Lake Havasu. Located across London Bridge on the Island with many amenities BBQ’s, picnic areas, a stage area, play grounds, basketball courts, volleyball courts, restrooms, open space, fenced in dog park.
Just a short bike ride from our RV park, we often ride to the park and torture ourselves trying to make our way across the monkey bars on one of the many playgrounds. Often to the amusement of the children playing, who are easily crossing the spans, and their parents. Maybe one day I will be able to will myself more than a few bars before awkwardly falling into the dirt.
London Bridge Beach is also a great place to watch many events which happen in Lake Havasu. This park and rotary park are the heart of activities and where you want to be.
Jack Hardie Park
Jack Hardie Park is located at 2470 Baron Drive. This was our first visit to this park, which I would describe as a neighborhood park. It’s snuggly nestled between homes on all sides, with ample parking. There are lots of picnic spots, a small playground, and horseshoe pits.. The park is small and quiet with shade and a great atmosphere. What I noticed first about this park was the diversity of trees. Variety of willows, cottonwoods, evergreens, and palms all in the same place. Grab a book, or your computer to do some work and enjoy the serenity of this park.
Grand Island Park
Grand Island Park is located at 750 Malibu Drive. The park is tucked away on the interior of the Island with access through a sub-division. Bathrooms, Picnic tables, access to the 3.6 mile Island trail multi-use path. A nine-hole disc golf course is our favorite activity in this park. The wide-open green space is a wonderful place to play with a soccer ball or frisbee. There is no playground at this park, however wide open space to run and play.
We love riding our bikes on the Island trail and stopping for a round of disc golf before traveling back to our RV park. The course is a great level for us with reasonable distances. The only challenge is not throwing our disc into the very close neighbors back yards. We have been lucky so far!
SARA Park
Special Activities and Recreation Area is an 1100 acre regional park with a variety of activities located at 7260 Sara Park Way off Arizona highway 95. This place is amazing! It is deserving of its own blog hi-lighting the many family friendly activities which take place here. Coming soon.
Softball and Baseball fields, an artificial surface skating rink, picnic shelters, covered playground, many restrooms, disc golf course, BMX race track, R/C car track, R/C model airplane airstrip, Motocross course, Motor Speedway, Shooting range, Rodeo grounds, hundreds of miles of hiking and mountain biking and a two-acre dog park. I’m sure I have missed activities, but hopefully this gives you the idea.
I’ve never seen anything like it. The park also host one of a kind activities like the Winter Blast which is a fireworks display put on annually. The latest and greatest new fireworks are displayed. Food and beverage vendors provide a variety of offerings to spectators enjoying this unique event. Check schedule for details.
Dick Samp Memorial Park
Dick Samp Memorial Park is located at 1628 Avalon, Ave. There are two little league fields, and a batting cage. Picnic areas, restrooms, and playground. It is also the home of Mike Delaney Pickleball Courts. There are sixteen courts and it is free to play. The courts are organized by skill level and it is up to you to pick a court with similar level players. As is common with many complexes if you would like to play simply place your paddle in the paddle rack where you would like to play. Players rotate into games from left to right.
Jess and I typically visit the park after lunch and there are usually several courts to choose from. Mornings are the busier time of day, with many groups who play. Normally, Jess and I warm up playing a game against each other and then we either get asked to play or ask another couple to play against. We seldom win, but enjoy meeting others and playing as teammates.
BLM Land
OHV Paradise
Copper Basin Dunes OHV Open Area is located across Parker Dam in California and is just one of many specific OHV locations throughout the Lake Havasu area. Amazingly, OHV’s are as common to see driving down the main highways and city streets as they are out on the trails. Insurance and a street legal registration is required and it must be properly equipped. Much of the equipment is standard on newer side by sides or it is easily added, making access to trails easy.
We do not currently own a OHV and would have no way to haul it with our current set-up, however the more time we spend here the more we talk about it, the more we miss our riding days. Maybe someday!
Dessert Bar
If you still haven’t found enough activities to want to visit and explore the Lake Havasu area, did I mention Desert Bars? Complete with miles of gnarly 4X4 roads to access, cold beer and live bands. The picture above is a chapel on their property where many weddings have taken place in the heart of the desert. A happening place to visit on the weekends throughout the winter months. Check their website for hours and events.
Hot air balloons, military jets, helicopters, classic air craft, individual powered para-gliders are more of things you will see in Lake Havasu on any given day. The amazing thing to me about Lake Havasu is there is room for everyone and anything you love. If you are interested in trying a new activity, you’ll probably find it here. I have yet to mention golfing, cycling, rock hounding, sailing and so many more activities.
After three years spending part of every winter here, we are still finding more amazing things to do. We love Lake Havasu and the surrounding area. We hope if you decide to visit you will it too!
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