Lake Havasu City

In 1958, a chance flight over the Lake Havasu area by entrepreneur Robert McCulloch later led to the founding of Lake Havasu City. A decade after the city’s establishment, McCulloch and town planner C.V. Wood had the grand idea to purchase the London Bridge from England and reconstruct it as a tourist attraction. The London Bridge is now the second most frequented attraction in all of Arizona, second only to the Grand Canyon.

The Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge is found at the far reaches of southeastern Lake Havasu. Rumored to contain the largest surviving cottonwood-willow woodlands of the lower Colorado River, the Refuge covers 6,000 acres. Perhaps most importantly, the Bill Williams River serves as a comfortable refuge to over 300 species of birds and waterfowl. There is a number of endangered species currently in propagation, including the razorback sucker fish and bony-tail chubs—which are indigenous to the Bill Williams River. Additionally, the Audubon Society named the Refuge an area of global significance in 2011.

Rotary Beach is Lake Havasu City’s largest public beach and park, granting easy access via boat or vehicle. Enjoy great recreational amenities as well: volleyball courts, ball fields, a swimming area, a skate park, a walking path, exercise stations, multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, and barbecues. The 5-mph no-wake zone within the Thompson Bay is a favorite of boaters. Rotary Beach is also only a short distance away from the London Bridge!

Along the picturesque Bridgewater Channel is the London Bridge Beach, a pet-friendly beach with an enclosed dog park, basketball and sand volleyball courts and even a community stage. As the name implies, the beach maintains a perfect view of the famous London Bridge. Pets are allowed outside of the enclosed park if leashed, and day mooring is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The BMX track at Sara Park is open to the public of all ages. Races are held weekly in the summer months and bi-weekly during the remaining months. ABA Membership is required to use the track, but they do allow new riders to sign up for a free, one-day pass.

It’s no secret that Lake Havasu boasts of ideal fishing conditions 12 months out of the year. Over a dozen fishing tournaments and activities are held throughout the year, and large-mouth bass, striped bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish, and fathead catfish are the fish local to the area.

Designed for the beginner or average fisherman who doesn’t have the time to dedicate to a professional circuit, the Weekend Warrior Bass Series is the perfect pick-up fishing experience. As the Series is not professional, anglers who are visiting Lake Havasu City will enjoy a weekend or two of fishing. An Angler of the Year hold out from each entry is held throughout the season. The event takes place near the London Bridge Channel, and a complete list of rules, eligibility requirements, schedules, and entry information is located on the JML Outdoors website.

Come learn about Lake Havasu City’s extensive past at the Museum of History. The culture and history of the area are showcased in permanent exhibits, including the history of the Native American Chemehuevi and Mojave tribes; the role of the lower Colorado River and the steamboat era; the relocation of the London Bridge from the banks of England to Arizona; and an overview of the native wildlife (from Desert Bighorn Sheep and coyote to several reptile species).

Featured as one of Lake Havasu’s more beautiful trails, Cupcake Mountain was named for its light dusting of snow that hearkened images of frosting on top of the mountain! Perfect views of the city’s photogenic scenery are achieved at the top of the mountain. At 4.6 miles of steep climbing, Cupcake Mountain is recommended for experienced hikers only.

Havasu Island Golf Course at the Nautical Beachfront Resort is an 18-hole, public golf course designed by Red Lawrence. Two sets of tees are featured for men and one is exclusively for women. Following your premium golf experience, stop at the clubhouse for food and drink at Bogey’s Sports Bar and Grill!