Lake Havasu

Lake Havasu is a 45-mile long reservoir on the Colorado River straddling the border between California and Arizona.

The lake draws people from around the country for house boating, jet skiing, water skiing, sailing, fishing, and a myriad of other recreation activities. Much of a shoreline is inaccessible by land because of the rugged terrain.

Snowbirds enjoy visiting Lake Havasu in the winter because temperatures are mild. College students gather at Lake Havasu during spring break. During the summer temperatures often exceed 100 degrees. Lake Havasu draws tourists year-round, many who come to see the famous London Bridge.

Lake Havasu is a boater's paradise with few restrictions. Houseboaters like to cruise the long channel, while water skiers and wakeboarders love the smooth water and warm temperatures. Fast boats are all over the lake. Personal Watercraft are a particular favorite way to spend a summer afternoon when temperatures soar above 100.

Lake Havasu has a number of good marinas, most of them clustered around Lake Havasu City. A variety of boat rental agencies in the area will deliver your boat to the water. Competition is strong for boat rentals so prices are often not advertised. Launch ramps are available at private marinas, and a free, public ramp is located on the island at Lake Havasu City.

Lake Havasu has offered up a number of Arizona record fish. Anglers come from far and wide to fish the beautiful waters of the lake, seeking stripers, largemouth and smallmouth bass, catfish, crappies, sunfish, and a host of others. There are plenty of launch ramps up and down the lake, but not a lot of local small fishing boat rentals.

Actual tent camping around Lake Havasu can be found at Black Meadow Landing by Parker Dam, at a couple of state parks, and at Bureau of Land Management boat-in campsites scattered along the lake shores. RV camping sites are abundant, most found around Lake Havasu City.

Lodging at Lake Havasu is mostly found around Lake Havasu City. Choices range from plush resorts to more moderately prices hotels and motels.

Lake Havasu is known for its stark beauty. Tour boats head up the lake into the Colorado River and through spectacular Topock Gorge. Tranquil inlets flanked by rocky outcrops are encountered up and down the lake.