Lake Havasu City, Arizona

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 are 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.

Beautiful white sands accompany vistas of the lake and mountains at Windsor Beach. Picnic tables, armadas, and grills make for the perfect day for friends and family alike. After lunch, hike the Mohave Sunset Trail, a scenic 1.75 mile walk, and stroll through the Arroyo-Camino Interpretive Garden. A diverse array of wildflowers and fauna can be seen here as well.

It’s no secret that Lake Havasu boasts of ideal fishing conditions all year round. The city hosts more than a dozen fishing tournaments a year, with abundant populations of largemouth bass, striped bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish, and flathead catfish thriving in its waters.

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. 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.

Discover Lake Havasu City's rich heritage at the Museum of History, where permanent exhibits bring the region's past to life. Explore the traditions of the Chemehuevi and Mojave native American tribes, relive the steamboat era along the Colorado River, and follow the incredible journey of the London Bridge from England to Arizona. The museum also highlights local wildlife, featuring displays on Desert Bighorn Sheep, coyotes, and native reptiles.

The Crack in the Mountain Trail winds through a stunning slot canyon along the Lower Colorado River, offering breathtaking desert scenery. This 4.7-mile moderate hike involves some climbing and culminates at a serene lakeside cove near the iconic Balance Rock. Keep an eye out for Bighorn Sheep along the way, they’re frequent visitors to the area. Locals affectionately call this trail 'SARA's Crack,' given its striking geological formation and Sara Park is where the adventure begins.

Featured as one of Lake Havasu’s most beautiful trails, Cupcake Mountain was named for its light dusting of snow 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.