Lake Havasu

By AZ Leisure Staff Writers

Last updated on April 30, 2026.

(The Lake)

Located along the Arizona–California border on the Colorado River, downstream from Lake Mohave, Lake Havasu is one of the most popular lake destinations in Arizona. Known for clear desert water, mountain scenery, boating, fishing, camping, beaches, and waterfront recreation, this 45-mile-long reservoir attracts millions of visitors each year.

Formed by Parker Dam, Lake Havasu offers more than 450 miles of shoreline and convenient marina access from both Arizona and California. Anchored by Lake Havasu City and the iconic London Bridge, the lake combines scenic outdoor adventure, spring break energy, family-friendly recreation, and relaxed desert-lake vacation appeal.

Lake Havasu City Arizona and The London Bridge

The focal point of the lake is the master-planned city of Lake Havasu City AZ which has been dubbed the "Personal Watercraft Capital of the World." The landmark icon of the city and the lake is the London Bridge. Yes, the London Bridge originally built over the River Thames in London, England. The first granite stone was laid to the bridge in 1825. When it was discovered the bridge was sinking due to heavy traffic in 1962, the bridge was auctioned to Robert McCullock, the Founder of Lake Havasu City for $2,460,000 in 1968.

The entire bridge including its arches made of granite was moved to Lake Havasu and reassembled stone-by-stone. It now connects the city to an island in the lake that is home to a resort, restaurants and a golf course. Adding to the essence of Medieval England, a British Village sits at the bridge gateway and features Tudor-style buildings that house shops and boutiques along the shore.

Why Visit Lake Havasu

Lake Havasu stands out as a premier Arizona destination because it combines warm desert weather, expansive open water, and a lively recreational atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy everything from high-speed boating and world-class fishing to scenic hiking trails and peaceful coves. The lake’s reputation as a top spring break destination brings energy and excitement, while quieter areas and nearby wildlife refuges offer a more relaxed escape. Whether you're looking for adventure, nightlife, or a laid-back lakeside getaway, Lake Havasu delivers one of the most versatile vacation experiences in the Southwest.

Best Things To Do & See At Lake Havasu

Boating & Water Recreation

• Bridgewater Channel near London Bridge – central hub for boating and waterfront activity
• Copper Canyon – popular boat-up canyon known for cliff jumping and social gatherings
• Steamboat Cove & Skiers Island – calm water areas ideal for water skiing and tubing
• Topock Gorge – scenic canyon boating area with dramatic desert cliffs

Fishing Hot Spots

• Bridgewater Channel & marina areas – accessible shoreline fishing for bass and catfish
• Rocky points and drop-offs – prime structure for striped bass and largemouth bass
• Bill Williams River arm – productive for catfish, crappie, and seasonal fishing
• Topock backwaters – quieter fishing zones with reduced boat traffic

Beaches, Swimming & Relaxation

• Lake Havasu State Park Beach – easy access swimming, picnicking, and camping
• Rotary Community Park – family-friendly beach with amenities and shaded areas
• Hidden coves and sandbars – secluded spots accessible by boat
• Mid-lake sandbar areas – popular for anchoring and relaxing on the water

Hiking & Outdoor Exploration

• SARA Park & Crack in the Wall Trail – slot canyon hike with rock scrambling
• Mohave Sunset Trail – easy shoreline hike with lake views and wildlife
• Balance Rock Cove – unique rock formations and scenic shoreline access
• Desert hillside trails – panoramic views of Lake Havasu and surrounding terrain

Off-Roading & Desert Adventure

• BLM desert trail systems – extensive ATV, dirt bike, and 4WD routes
• Parker Strip backcountry – rugged terrain with scenic river views
• Open desert riding areas – accessible directly from Lake Havasu City

Wildlife Viewing & Nature Areas

• Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge – birdwatching and wetland habitat
• Havasu National Wildlife Refuge – migratory birds and desert wildlife
• Topock Gorge – frequent sightings of bighorn sheep and raptors

Attractions & Local Highlights

• London Bridge & English Village – historic landmark with shops and dining
• Lake Havasu Museum of History – exhibits on the bridge and regional history
• Annual boat races and jet ski events – major watercraft competitions
• Spring break events – one of the most well-known party destinations in the Southwest

Water Recreation and Boating

Choose your style of lake recreation because this oasis of sandy beaches, coves, inlets, canyon walls, desert landscape, and cool waters beckon all who seek adventure, fun and romance whether for months, a week vacation or a weekend getaway from the hectic grind of city life.

Bring your own or rent watercraft for power speed-boating, water-skiing, jet skiing, sailing, kayaking, houseboating or fishing for trophy striped bass, largemouth bass, trout, crappie and catfish. Lake Havasu is a popular spot for fishing tournaments and there are several fishing guides that will take you to the best fishing spots.

The lake is also host to many boat races and regattas including the International Jet Sport Association's World Finals which takes place annually. This event is the "Super Bowl" of personal watercraft and jet-ski racing.

Best Times To Go To Lake Havasu

Spring (March – May)

• Peak season with warm temperatures and ideal boating conditions
• Excellent fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities
• Spring break brings large crowds and increased activity

Summer (June – August)

• Extremely hot temperatures, often exceeding 100°F
• Best for swimming, houseboating, and water sports
• Early morning and evening activities are most comfortable

Fall (September – November)

• Warm weather with fewer crowds than spring and summer
• Great time for fishing, boating, and hiking
• Comfortable temperatures make it one of the best overall seasons

Winter (December – February)

• Mild daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s
• Ideal for hiking, camping, and sightseeing
• Quiet season with a relaxed atmosphere and minimal crowds

Spring Break at Lake Havasu

Lake Havasu is considered one of the Southwest’s best-known spring break destinations. Each year, college students gather around popular boating areas such as Copper Canyon, creating a lively party atmosphere. Families with young children may prefer visiting outside peak spring break weeks when the lake is generally quieter and more relaxed.

Most spring breakers head to the secluded Copper Canyon where everyone ties their boats together and parties from boat to boat from sunup to sunrise. Jumping into the lake from the canyon walls is popular, yet dangerous recreation when one has consumed way too much alcohol. Read more about Lake Havasu Spring Break.

More Than Just Water

If you enjoy seeing the backcountry scenery, Lake Havasu also offers thousands of square miles for your off-highway enjoyment under the supervision of the Bureau of Land Management. The lands in these designated areas are completely open to dune buggies, motorcycles and 4WD vehicles, making Lake Havasu your premier off-road thrill ride.

Try hiking one of the many trails that wind through the rocks that surround the lake. The Mohave Sunset Trail is an easy 1.5 miles that takes you through some desert lowlands in addition to hugging the shoreline, providing an excellent way to view some of the over 350 species of birds and animals that call the Lake Havasu riparian area home. If you want a more challenging hike, try the three mile Slot Canyon Trail known as Crack in the Wall at SARA Park Wash. The trailhead for this hike is found just south of Lake Havasu City and leads visitors through some of the most colorful and geologically diverse terrain in all of Arizona. Be prepared for some serious climbing and fabulous scenery as you make your way across rock ledges, over several dry falls and down into the lake itself at Balance Cove.

Wild animal lovers will enjoy both the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge at the south rim of the lake and the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge along the lake's western edge. While several isolated coves have been set aside for biological study, these wildlife refuges also have public access areas that provide excellent bird watching and habitat observation points. The nearby Topock Gorge is abundant in wildlife including big horn sheep, wild burros and coyotes with many sightings of falcons and peregrine.

Camping At Lake Havasu

On the Arizona side of Lake Havasu there are 125 campsites on the shores of the lake spanning from Lake Havasu City to Parker Dam. Most of the camping sites include picnic tables, shade, bbq grills, pit toilets and trash receptacles. Moderate fees apply and campgrounds are available on a first come basis.

Getting To Lake Havasu

Lake Havasu is located on the Colorado River between Arizona and California. It is about 150 miles from Las Vegas, 208 miles from Phoenix, 307 miles from Los Angeles and 313 miles from San Diego.

Directions From Phoenix. Take I-10 West. Take Exit 19 marked Parker/Yuma to AZ 95 North. Continue on AZ 95 until you arrive in Lake Havasu City.

Directions From Las Vegas. Take US 93 south to Kingman Arizona. Then take I-40 to Arizona 95 south to Lake Havasu City which is about 60 miles from Kingman.

Directions From California. Drive between Needles and Vidal Junction on Highway 95 and take Seventeen Mile Road east to Lake Havasu. From the Arizona side, a water taxi is available in the London Bridge Village in Lake Havasu City on the Arizona side.

Lodging & Accommodations

Choose from a wide selection of Hotels in Lake Havasu City AZ or consider Lake Havasu RV Parks, Vacation Rentals and area Campgrounds.

Lake Havasu FAQ

Where is Lake Havasu located?

Lake Havasu is located on the Colorado River along the Arizona-California border, with Lake Havasu City on the Arizona side of the lake.

What is Lake Havasu best known for?

Lake Havasu is best known for boating, fishing, spring break, the London Bridge, clear desert water, sandy beaches, and year-round outdoor recreation.

Can you swim in Lake Havasu?

Yes. Lake Havasu has many beaches, coves, and shoreline areas where visitors can swim, relax, picnic, and enjoy warm-weather water activities.

Is Lake Havasu good for boating?

Yes. Lake Havasu is one of Arizona’s top boating destinations, with marinas, launch ramps, wide open water, coves, and access to the Colorado River.

What kind of fish are in Lake Havasu?

Lake Havasu is home to striped bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, bluegill, redear sunfish, and crappie.

When is the best time to visit Lake Havasu?

Spring and fall are generally the best times to visit Lake Havasu because the weather is warm, boating conditions are good, and outdoor activities are more comfortable than in summer.

Is Lake Havasu family friendly?

Lake Havasu can be family friendly, especially during fall, winter, and early summer. Families may prefer to avoid peak spring break periods when crowds and party activity increase.

How far is Lake Havasu from Phoenix?

Lake Havasu City is about 200 miles northwest of Phoenix, depending on the route, and the drive typically takes about three and a half to four hours.

Arizona Lakes