Lake Havasu Arizona: a hidden gem

Bordered to 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 town of Lake Havasu was founded by Robert P. McCullough, the inventor of the McCullough chainsaws, who used this lake to test ship engines. He bought 3,500 acres of land on the east side of the lake. The first residents around the lake lived in tents, which earned them the honor of being the pioneers of the 1960s.

Spring Break at Lake Havasu is a welcome change from the fuss, binge-free for all that many tourist spots face. Activities at Lake Havasu encourage students to go hiking, boating, and enjoying the serenity found in nature.

The London Bridge that runs from Lake Havasu to Thompson Bay was purchased by McCullough in 1968 for $ 2.5 million. Carefully dismantled in London, each brick marked and transported to Arizona, the bridge took three years to rebuild. Modifications for safety and fit have changed it, but visitors don’t seem to mind. A small English town transports guests across the sea as they stroll through the picturesque streets. This bridge provides a spectacular view at night of the lake, the city and the sky.

Outdoor activities are almost limitless at Lake Havasu. Tourists can rent a boat, water ski, Jet Ski, parasail, hike, bike, swim, and fish for the day. Houseboat rental is available for families who want to escape to a quiet place. Lake Havasu State Park has a few miles of rugged trails for the more adventurous visitors.

The Mohave Trail, which is only a mile and a half long, gently winds its way from the desert side of the park to the shoreline. The Arroyo-Camino Interpretive Garden presents the native species and wildlife that inhabit the desert that surrounds the artificial lake. Public beaches and picnic areas provide vacationers a chance to relax and unwind after hiking in the desert sun.

If the weather turns bad, a visit to the fully enclosed Water Park will keep you busy. Featuring a 254 foot fully enclosed waterslide, wave pool, kiddy pond, and plenty of lounging areas; therapeutic pools will calm 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.

The city’s golf courses and outdoor areas offer a spectacular view of the scene for the avid golfer. Bridgewater Links, located near Queens Bay, has three daily tee times on its nine-hole, 1,808-yard par 30 course. London Bridge Golf Course is an 18-hole, 6,140-yard par 71 course. The Refuge Golf Course offers rounds of nine and 18 holes. All of these courses are open to the public, however it is suggested to reserve your tee time in advance.

The History Museum offers a glimpse into the rich traditional past of the first inhabitants. The Chemehuevi people present Native American dance, song, and music for this museum. Special events such as the YaYa women’s group prepare fried bread and traditional crafts throughout the year. Video presentations of “Putting Creation Back Together” detail the Salt Trail project that took place inside the museum.

A trip to Lake Havasu will provide any family with the perfect Arizona vacation destination!