tree and park bench next to the water at lake havasu state park in arizonaDeep in the heart of the desert and along the California and Arizona border lies a beautiful beachfront resort area.

Lake Havasu State Park, located within Lake Havasu city limits, offers guests access to lake activities as well as camping, picnicking and exploring trails.

This beautiful Arizona State Park, also known as ‘Arizona’s West Coast,’ is only 3 hours west of Phoenix and 2½ hours south of Vegas.

The mountainous backdrop and the 400 miles of sparkling coastline attract many visitors every year. And so does its famous structure – the original London Bridge – that was moved here from London during the late 1960s.

Activities

Whether you’re just passing through or planning to stay for a few days you’ll fall in love with this beautiful park and city! Discover trails, gardens, shops and the magnificent reconstructed London Bridge.

The park has a visitor center, store, gift shop and ramadas are scattered throughout the park. Relax in the shade while you enjoy a picnic lunch. And don’t forget to bring your swimsuit for a refreshing dip in Lake Havasu after exploring the trails and garden.

Here are some more activities that you can do during your visit to Lake Havasu State Park:

Swimming at Lake Havasu State Park

Lake Havasu State Park has a white sandy beach and large unguarded swimming area for guests. Swimming is also allowed in various places along the shore and there are several beaches within the park. Swimming near boat ramps and docks is prohibited.

From May until September the water temperature is a consistent 79 degrees but this temperature can drop significantly the further out you swim. And at other times of the year it can be considerably colder.

Boating at Lake Havasu State Park

All types of boats are allowed on Lake Havasu but remember that both Arizona and California share jurisdiction. Bring your own boat or rent one through the park’s concessionaire – Wet Monkey PowerSports Boat Rentals.

The park currently has 4 boat ramps and plans for a marina. Non-motorized boats may launch along the shoreline or from any boat ramp.

Fishing at Lake Havasu State Park

Fishing, especially for bass, is popular with visitors to Lake Havasu State Park. The lake, a 19,000-acre impoundment of the Colorado River, contains smallmouth, largemouth and striped bass as well as shad, catfish and more.

Its rocky shoreline provides many ideal ‘fishing spots’ for those who prefer to fish along the shore. Remember to pick up an Arizona fishing license ahead of time. A fishing license is required for anyone over the age of 10.

Trails at Lake Havasu State Park

Explore the trails during your visit to Lake Havasu State Park. The park’s trails wind through desert areas, wildflowers and along the lake while providing stunning views of the mountains and the nearby city of Lake Havasu.

Here are a few of the trails at Lake Havasu State Park:

  • Mohave Sunset Trail – This easy 1.75 mile pedestrian-only trail spreads across the park, through the lowland desert and along the shoreline.
  • SARA Crack Trail – Moderate 3.4 mile trail that follows the riverbed and climbs through a crack that leads out to the lake. Beautiful views of the Colorado River and mountains.
  • Beachcomber Boulevard Loop – Easy 3.8 mile paved trail that is ideal for cyclists. This loop provides spectacular views of the city and mountains behind it but is unshaded throughout (plan ahead and wear a hat and sunscreen!).
  • Friendly Fair Trail – Moderate 3.1 mile curved trail close to town. This trail has amazing lake views and is perfect for bikes.

Wildlife Viewing at Lake Havasu State Park

The Lake Havasu area has lots of wildlife all year round. During your visit to this park take a walk through the Interpretive Garden and along the Mohave-Sunset Trail. The Arroyo-Camino Interpretive Garden displays the diverse habitats of this area.

You’ll be sure to see squirrels, rabbits, skunks, hummingbirds, hawks, great blue heron, snakes, lizards, bats and many more species of wildlife. You may even spot a fox, coyote, bobcat or a great horned owl.

Camping at Lake Havasu State Park

Lake Havasu State Park has year round campsites, camping cabins and modern bath houses to accommodate overnight guests. Camping fees include access to the park’s day-use facilities and the camping areas are located close to Lake Havasu City’s shops and restaurants.

The park’s 54 campsites have electric (50amp) connections and access to potable water and most are suitable for RVs/Motorhomes as well as tents. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring and many also have shade ramadas (covered picnic area).

The 13 camping cabins are situated alongside the Colorado River. These picturesque cabins are furnished with a queen-sized bed, 2 sets of bunk beds and a table and chairs. Each cabin has a ceiling fan, electricity, heat and air conditioning and access to campground bathhouses. Campers need to bring their own linens.

Outside each camping cabin is a picnic table and fire ring. Two vehicles are allowed per cabin and RV sites with water/electric connections are available adjacent to the cabins.

Pets at Lake Havasu State Park

Pets are allowed at Lake Havasu State Park but must be attended to at all times and kept on a leash no longer than six-feet. Please clean up after your pet. Pets are not allowed on the white sand beaches or inside cabins.

Attractions Near Lake Havasu State Park

Lake Havasu City
Visit the many shops, restaurants and other attractions in nearby Lake Havasu City.

Buckskin Mountain State Park
This beautiful riverside park lies 30 minutes south of Lake Havasu State Park.

River Island State Park
Another nearby state park, only 30 minutes south. River Island has trails, boating, a sandy beach, picnic areas and tent camping.

Cattail Cove State Park
More trails, camping, boat launch, sandy beach at this nearby state park, only 25 miles from Lake Havasu.

London Bridge
The original London Bridge, possibly the world’s largest antique, is located 2 miles from Lake Havasu State Park. Take a tour and learn about the history of this famous bridge and how it came to be reconstructed in Arizona in the late 1960s.

Park Location

Lake Havasu State Park
699 London Bridge Rd
Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
Phone: 877.697.2757

Website

Park Entrance Fee (Per Vehicle, 1-4 adults):

$20 – Friday, Saturday and Sunday (and holidays)
$15 – Monday – Thursday
$3 – Individual/bicycle

Map

Video

Below is a brief video showcasing a number of attractions at Lake Havasu State Park: