Lake Havasu Camping

Camping at Lake Havasu offers a rare and unforgettable experience where the arid beauty of the Arizona desert meets the cool, sparkling waters of the Colorado River. Located in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, Lake Havasu State Park is one of the most popular destinations for camping in the Southwest thanks to its beachfront sites, modern amenities, and easy access to water recreation and city conveniences. Whether you're traveling in a tent, RV, or renting a lakeside cabin, this guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your Lake Havasu camping trip.

Overview of Lake Havasu State Park

Lake Havasu State Park sits along the eastern shoreline of Lake Havasu, a 45-mile-long reservoir that marks the transition from the Mojave Desert of California to the Sonoran Desert of Arizona. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, this destination attracts more than a million visitors annually. The state park features white-sand beaches, scenic walking trails, a desert garden, and direct lake access for boating, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Camping Options at Lake Havasu State Park

The state park offers 54 spacious campsites, all equipped with 50-amp electric and water hookups. These sites accommodate tents, trailers, and large RVs—up to 125 feet in length. Most sites come with shaded ramadas, picnic tables, BBQ grills, and fire rings. Several beachfront sites provide direct views of the lake and convenient access to the sand. For those seeking comfort, 13 air-conditioned and heated beachside cabins are available for rent. These dry cabins offer beds, solar power, nearby modern restrooms, and proximity to sandy shores.

An overflow area is available for dry camping without reservations during busy seasons. While trees are limited in the park, shrubs between the campsites and lake serve as windbreaks and offer some privacy.

Amenities at the Campground

Campers enjoy access to flush toilets, hot showers, drinking water, a playground, paved roads, and an RV sanitation dump station. The park features four large boat ramps with multiple launch lanes and spacious parking for trailers. Additional attractions include a cactus garden, interpretive desert garden, and several beach areas ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking.

Located just minutes from downtown Lake Havasu City, the park is within walking or biking distance of restaurants, shops, coffee stands, and the iconic London Bridge. This blend of natural beauty and urban convenience is one of the park’s biggest draws.

Reservations, Fees, and Important Policies

Camping at Lake Havasu State Park costs $50 per night. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made online or by calling the Arizona State Parks Reservation Desk. There’s a $3.60 non-refundable reservation fee. From April through October, a two-night minimum stay is required on weekends, and a three-night minimum applies to major holiday weekends such as Memorial Day and Labor Day.

A second vehicle fee of $15 per night is charged at check-in (excludes towed vehicles that remain at the campsite). Check-in is at 2:00 p.m., and check-out is at 12:00 noon. Early arrivals before noon will be charged a day-use entrance fee. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 consecutive nights. Each site allows up to 10 guests or six adults.

Best Time to Camp at Lake Havasu

While the park is open year-round, the best times to camp at Lake Havasu are in the fall, winter, and spring. From November to March, thousands of snowbirds flock to the area to enjoy the mild temperatures and social atmosphere. In contrast, the summer off-season sees fewer visitors due to extreme heat—temperatures regularly exceed 100°F—but it offers solitude for those prepared to beat the heat.

Seasonal Events and Activities

Lake Havasu is famous for its year-round event calendar. Winter highlights include bass fishing tournaments and the VW Buses by the Bridge rally, which brings hundreds of vintage Volkswagen buses together for a weekend of music, camping, and hot air balloons. Sunset lake cruises departing from London Bridge are popular in all seasons, offering scenic views and underwater light shows.

In spring and fall, the lake hosts adrenaline-pumping boat races like the Storm Poker Run, attracting crowds, TV crews, and some of the fastest boats in the country. Summer offers uncrowded beaches and ideal conditions for paddleboarding, kayaking, and exploring coves.

Additional Camping Near Lake Havasu

Beyond the state park, several private campgrounds and RV resorts offer alternative camping options in Lake Havasu City. Islander Resort features full-hookup RV sites, a private dock, beach access, and a resort-style pool. Havasu Falls RV Resort offers large, pet-friendly sites with a heated pool, game room, exercise classes, and sweeping views of the lake. These options are perfect for extended stays or travelers seeking additional amenities.

Boating and Water Recreation

Lake Havasu is a water lover’s paradise. The lake supports everything from kayaking and paddleboarding to wakeboarding, jet skiing, and scuba diving. Four main boat ramps are available at Lake Havasu State Park, including areas for personal watercraft like jet skis. Boats must meet regulations for both Arizona and California, as the lake spans both states. Rentals are available onsite from Wet Monkey Powersport Rentals, and the Havasu Riviera Marina offers boat storage, docks, and ramp access.

Tips for Visiting

Because Lake Havasu is remote, it’s crucial to plan ahead—especially during summer. Bring extra water, check your vehicle’s condition, and ensure you have enough fuel before arriving. The region has plenty of space for big rigs, and gas stations cater to RVs, but breaking down in extreme heat can be dangerous. While shade is limited in the campground, many sites include pergolas or ramadas to offer some relief from the sun.

Conclusion

Camping at Lake Havasu offers a unique and dynamic desert-lake adventure with something for everyone—from beachfront camping and exciting water sports to peaceful desert trails and vibrant downtown experiences. With high-quality amenities, stunning views, and endless outdoor activities, Lake Havasu State Park is one of Arizona’s best camping destinations and a must-visit for any traveler seeking the perfect mix of recreation and relaxation.