If you’re a fan of boating, beautiful beaches, and the great Arizona outdoors, chances are you’ve already heard of Lake Havasu State Park. Lake Havasu State Park is one of the most well-known parks in all of the southwestern United States, and for good reason! With warm and sunny weather most of the year, this special place acts as the perfect getaway spot for individuals, couples, families, and everyone in between.
If you’re interested in learning more about Lake Havasu State Park or if you’re planning an upcoming visit, we’ve got your back. This article will cover what Lake Havasu State Park is known for, the area’s must-see spots, hiking trails, park and camping information, and nearby accommodation options.
1. What is Lake Havasu State Park Known For?
For water sport enthusiasts, Lake Havasu is nothing short of heaven on earth. Lake Havasu State Park is well-known throughout the southwestern United States as a fantastic destination for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Boating
All different kinds of boaters are more than welcome to enjoy the beauty of Lake Havasu. However, for safety purposes, all water-crafts must be properly registered. To learn more about obtaining proper registration, please consult the Arizona Game and Fish’s Watercraft Information Page as well as the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways website.
If you do not own a boat but are interested in renting one for a day on the water, Lake Havasu State Park allows Wet Monkey Powersport Rentals to run a rental service femur inside of the park. For more information, you can visit their website or call them at + 1 (928) 855-2022
Boat Ramps
Lake Havasu State Park has five boat ramps located inside of the park:
- Lot 1 – Two boat ramps available.
- Lot 2 – Two boat ramps available.
- Lot 3B – One boat ramp available.
Please note that non-motorized water-crafts may launch from any ramp or the shoreline.
Fishing
Don’t forget your fishing pole when you come to Lake Havasu State Park! This park is known as a world-class bass fishing destination. All are welcome to enjoy a serene day fishing on the water, from beginner-level to those with decades of experience. Again, you may need a license, so check on the state’s rules and regulations.
Swimming
Lake Havasu State Park invites visitors to utilize their large designated swimming area at the day-use beach. Here, you can swim safely and soak up the sun on beautiful white-sand beaches. If you feel comfortable doing so, the park also allows swimming along the shoreline throughout the park. Since there are no lifeguards on duty, swimming is always at your own risk. Here are some tips to help put safety first:
- Wear swimming shoes to avoid cutting your feet on the rocky lake bottoms.
- Do not swim near boat ramps or docks.
- Wear a lifejacket. Bright colored life jackets are a great way to make your presence known to boaters.
- Never swim alone.
2. What are the Top Things to See in Lake Havasu State Park?
The most important thing to see at Lake Havasu State Park is probably the lake itself. Whether you’re enjoying it from afar on the white sand beaches, or if you’re gliding along its surface on a set of water skis, this centerpiece of the park is what draws thousands of visitors every single year.
However, if you’re looking for something different that can turn a good trip into a great trip, we highly recommend checking out the Lake Havasu State Park events. Because this park has such a vibrant community, there’s always something new going on! Some of the major events that take place at Lake Havasu State Park every year include the Havasu Balloon Festival & Fair, the Lake Havasu Boat Show, Bluegrass on the Beach, and the Rockabilly Reunion. These events are definitely “must-see” material!
3. Hiking and Trails Information
Lake Havasu is certainly a park that caters more to water activities than land activities. However, if you’re hoping to take a short stroll while visiting, there are two great trail options for putting those hiking shoes to use:
- Mohave Sunset Trail – This easy trail is 1.75 miles long and winds through the lowland desert and along the Lake Havasu shoreline.
- Arroyo-Camino Interpretive Garden – This self-guided walk is intended to give visitors the chance to observe the park’s diverse wildlife and plant life. Ask a park ranger for a map or more information.
4. Park and Camping Information
Park and Facility Hours
Lake Havasu State Park is open 24 hours a day, every single day of the year. The Lake Havasu State Park Visitor Center is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm between April and September; 7:00 am to 5:00 pm between October and March; and
Park Entrance Fees
- Weekdays
- Per vehicle (up to four adults): $15.00
- Per individual/bicycle: $3.00
- Weekends and Holidays
- Per vehicle (up to four adults): $20.00
- Per individual/bicycle: $3.00
Lake Havasu State Park Visitor Center and Park Store
If you’re in search of knowledgeable rangers that can help you find the best ways to enjoy this popular state park, head to the Lake Havasu State Park Visitor Center. There, you can also find a store with camping supplies and a gift shop with several souvenirs to choose from.
Picnic Grounds
Lake Havasu State Park has a lovely picnic area located at the day-use beach. Visitors are welcome to use the available picnic tables, shaded ramadas, barbecue grills, water spigots, and nearby restrooms.
Camping Information
There is no better way to enjoy the glory of Lake Havasu State Park than by making a weekend out of it and staying overnight at the Lake Havasu campgrounds. All of the 47 campsites include a picnic table, fire pit, and barbecue grill. Most sites also accommodate visitors with electricity. A paid camping permit allows for use of the shower and restroom facilities, water spigots, dumping stations, and all of the park day-use facilities.
If you are interested in making a camping reservation at Lake Havasu State Park, you can do so online at the Lake Havasu State Park website or by calling the Arizona State Parks Reservations Desk at 877-MY-PARKS during normal office hours. Lake Havasu is a very popular destination, so we do encourage booking your campsite in advance.
5. Where to Stay Near Lake Havasu State Park
Lake Havasu visitors who enjoy sleeping with air conditioning can rent cabins inside of the park or travel a short distance to find plenty of lodging opportunities in Lake Havasu City.
Lake Havasu Cabins
Just recently, Lake Havasu State Park has added 13 overnight camping cabins in the park. These air-conditioned cabins are located right on the lakeshore and pointed west. (In other words, pointed toward prime sunset viewing!) The cabins are furnished with a queen-sized bed, two sets of bunk beds, a dining table, chairs, electricity, and heating and air-conditioning. Outside, each cabin also has a private picnic table, barbecue grill, and an individual fire pit.
If you are interested in making a cabin reservation at Lake Havasu State Park, visit the Lake Havasu State Park website or call the Arizona State Parks Reservations Desk at 877-MY-PARKS during normal office hours.
Lake Havasu City
Lake Havasu City is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Lake Havasu State Park. In the city, you’ll find dozens of lodging options — ranging from hotels to resorts and “glamping”. We recommend checking out the Lake Havasu City website for a full list of accommodation options, as well as information regarding restaurants and activities.
There’s a reason that Lake Havasu State Park is one of the most well-known and well-loved parks in all of the southwestern United States. Neither Arizona locals nor well-traveled tourists can get enough of this state park’s beautiful scenery, crisp water, and fun-loving community! Trust us, when it comes to Lake Havasu, you’ll probably start planning your next trip before your first is even over.