Bordered on the west by California, Lake Havasu is an oasis of water in the Arizona desert. As a result of the construction of the Parker Dam, this lake was established in 1938. The city of Lake Havasu was founded by Robert P. McCullough, the inventor of McCullough chainsaws, who used this lake to test boat engines. He purchased 3,500 acres of land on the east side of the lake. The first residents around the lake lived in tents, earning them the honor of being the pioneers of the 1960s.
Spring break in Lake Havasu is a welcome change from the boozy, boisterous freedom many tourist spots are faced with. Activities at Lake Havasu encourage students to hike, boat, and enjoy the serenity found in nature.
The London Bridge spanning Lake Havasu to Thompson Bay was purchased by McCullough in 1968 for $2.5 million. Painstakingly disassembled in London, each brick marked and transported to Arizona, the bridge took three years to rebuild. Modifications for safety and tuning have changed it, but visitors don’t seem to care. A small English town transports guests across the sea as they stroll through the picturesque streets. This bridge offers a spectacular view at night of the lake, the city and the sky.
Outdoor activities are almost limitless in Lake Havasu. Tourists can rent a boat, water ski, jet ski, paraglide, hike, bike, swim and fish during the day. Houseboat rentals are available for families who want to get away to a quiet place. Lake Havasu State Park has a few miles of rugged trails for the more adventurous visitor.
The Mohave Trail, which is only a mile and a half long, winds gently from the desert side of the park to the shoreline. The Arroyo-Camino Interpretive Garden features the native species and wildlife that inhabit the desert surrounding the artificial lake. Public beaches and picnic areas give vacationers a chance to relax and unwind after hiking in the desert sun.
If the weather takes a turn for the worse, a visit to the fully enclosed water park should keep you busy. Featuring a 254-foot fully enclosed water slide, wave pool, kiddie lagoon, and plenty of lounging areas; therapeutic pools will soothe overworked muscles. The Water Park offers many families a place to escape the sun and still enjoy the water. Special package deals are available for those families who plan ahead. Visit their website for more details.
Golf courses in the city and outside areas offer spectacular views for the avid golfer. Bridgewater Links, located near Queens Bay, has 3 daily tee times on its 1,808-yard, nine-hole, par-30 course. London Bridge Golf Course is a par 71, 18-hole, 6,140-yard course. The Refuge Golf Course offers nine and 18 hole rounds. All of these fields are open to the public, however, it is suggested that you reserve your tee time in advance.
The History Museum provides a glimpse of the rich traditional past of the first inhabitants. The Chemehuevi people present Native American dance, song and music for this museum. Special events like the YaYa women’s group prepare fried bread and traditional crafts throughout the year. “Bringing Creation Back Together” video presentations detail the Salt Trail Project taking place within the museum.
A trip to Lake Havasu will provide any family with the perfect Arizona vacation destination!