Lake Havasu State Park is unique not simply for its warm Arizona location, but for its blue waters, white sand beaches and a 180-degree view of the mountains.
With available hiking and boating opportunities along its famous waters, Lake Havasu State Park is a popular destination, and not simply for state residents. It lures thousands of visitors from across the country and world.
Below, we’ve put together a few reasons why we think Lake Havasu State Park is a prime destination for camping. In addition, we’re going to tell you how to have an amazing time while there.
What makes Lave Havasu State Park so special?
Other than its water sports, what makes the park so special?
It’s an oasis of cool surrounded by the Arizona desert. While temperatures reach the triple-digits during the summer, the lake area remains slightly cooler.
Another special point of the park is the amount of acreage. Since its inception in the 1960s, the area has acquired land for trails, camping and recreation. Therefore, when you combine everything together, the approximate size is 928,000 acres!
London Bridge
There’s an additional reason why Lake Havasu State Park is so popular — London Bridge. Though part of Lake Havasu City, the reconstruction of the original London Bridge between 1969-1971 changed the dynamic of the area. Soon enough, the London Bridge Channel was established for recreation. Furthermore, the location known as Pittsburg Point became an island.
Things to do a Lake Havasu State Park
Regardless if going alone or with a family, Lake Havasu State Park has a plethora of things to do.
47 tent and RV camping sites are available all year. these slots come with electrical hookups, potable water and eating areas.
Other activities around the state park include
- Swimming
- Boating
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Biking
- Hiking
- Birdwatching
You also have access to the Arroyo-Camino Interpretive Garden. This exploitative area highlights the park’s biodiversity through displays of desert plants and wildlife. Some of the animals you’ll see while visiting include lizards and cottontails.
There are also a number of daily and annual events that take place at the state park. In December, it hosts a parade of Christmas-decorated boats on the lake. Children who visit the park at any time can become Junior Rangers and receive commerative badges.
Wildlife at Lake Havasu State Park
Being amid tall trees and grasses as well as the desert, you will see a variety of wildlife while boating, swimming, or hiking. During the day, you may glimpse a peregrine falcon swoop overhead. At night, the fluttering of bats emerging from historic mines will draw your attention.
Non-winged wildlife that may be seen include coyotes, fox, roadrunners, bobcats, or desert bighorn sheep.
What Visitors Think of the Park?
A common theme you hear from visitors of the park is its availability throughout the year. Another one is the ability to plan a day trip from many areas in the West, including Phoenix and Las Vegas.
Some of the cons connected to the state park include the noise levels from powerboats and jet skis. Heat is another complaint since it can get into the low triple digits in July and August.
Currently, the park is constructing new restrooms. So, you may experience minor inconveniences due to construction and temporary bathroom trailers.
Special Items Campers Should Bring
- Sleeping Pads
- Hiking Boots
- Camping Gear
- Life Jackets
- High-SPF Sun Lotion
- Sunglasses
- Wide-brimmed hat
Two additional camping items to consider.
- Moisture-wicking shirts and socks — Though the area gets very little rain, you will still sweat. Especially during the triple-digit temperatures of summer. Moisture-wicking clothes will keep your upper body and feet dry and cool no matter what the thermometer says.
- Tent Heaters — Winter days range from the mid-60s to the mid-70s. However, the nights can dip into the 50s and 40s. So, if tent camping during the colder months, make sure you get a portable heater appropriate for the size of your party.
Nearby Attractions
In addition to the wonders of Lake Havasu State Park, you may want to take some short trips and visit nearby attractions. Here are few suggestions to round out your trip.
London Bridge— Previously mentioned, what city leaders consider the “World’s Largest Antique” is two miles from the park’s entrance.
Lake Havasu Museum of History — There’s a lot of history to this man-made lake created by damming the Colorado River. This museum details the origins of the area and city.
Casinos — It you need a date night away from the kids, there are several casinos in and around the city and the lake.
Havasu 95 Speedway — Take in a stock car race featuring a variety of vehicles.
Aquatic Center — A stand out among indoor water parks of the Southwest, this one includes an indoor water slide and wave pool.
Lake Havasu State Park Information
Lake Havasu State Park offers its visitors a terrific camping experience whether it’s in a popup, family tent or a RV.
You have the choice of 47 drive-in sites. All offer a 50-amp hookup, potable water, picnic table, and fire ring.
Do you plan to purchase or rent an RV? Check out our Guide to Buying Your First RV or our guide to Renting Your First RV if that’s your plan.
Make your campsite reservations online. Or, you can call the Arizona State Parks Reservations Desk.
There’s a $5 non-refundable reservation fee per site. The site cost includes the use of the shower/restroom, water, dump station, and day-use facilities.
The maximum length of a stay is 14 nights. Between April 1 and September 30 there is a two-night minimum reservation (Friday & Saturday) for weekend camping.
Lake Havasu State Park Address: 699 London Bridge Road, Lake Havasu, AZ 86403
Phone: 928-855-2784
Website:https://azstateparks.com/lake-havasu
Park Map (PDF format):https://d2umhuunwbec1r.cloudfront.net/gallery/0004/0023/7609D3F894554AE0BEF7E0D08FFE5971/LAHA_ParkMap_Spring_2019_FINAL_01.pdf
Check out these additional 40 of the Best Places To Go Camping in Arizona.