Lake Havasu Boondocking: From Hidden State Lands to a Bridge from London

Hinzugefügt: 2026-05-06

[00:00:01]Most people see a gimmick in the desert.

[00:00:04]We see a masterpiece of engineering.

[00:00:07]From a bridge that cross the Atlantic to a town literally carved out of the dirt, Lake Havasu is a place of extremes.

[00:00:17]We're spending a week exploring everything from iconic slot canyons to off-grid bars and a legendary escaper bash. Buckle up, this isn't your average winter retreat.

[00:00:31]There's a stretch of Highway 95 between Parker and Lake Habasu City that feels less like a road and more like a gateway. To your left, the Colorado River, a ribbon of sapphire cutting through a landscape that hasn't changed much since the plea scene.

[00:00:49]We're rolling past the manicured lawns of Buckskin Mountain and River Island State Parks. They're beautiful, sure, but today, Deng and I are hunting for something a little more raw. We're scouting for a relatively new and hopefully less crowded boondocking area right across from the steps. The only issue, there isn't exactly a welcome sign. We're looking for an unmarked turnoff in a sea of desert scrub. Hoping Google Maps isn't playing games with us.

[00:01:20]It looks like our turn is just ahead, but the path is anything but clear.

[00:01:25]There's a gate. Usually a red flag, but out here that's often just for the livestock. Let's check it out.

[00:01:32]Well, the livestock theory is officially debunked. Cows aren't exactly known for their locksmithing skills.

[00:01:41]So, instead of a campsite, we got a 60 ft exercise in precision backing onto a busy highway. Oh, >> now you have a long way. Go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go. You have a long way.

[00:02:01]Okay, I'm coming in.

[00:02:11]>> I can't tell.

[00:02:15]>> Well, now that we've covered where not to camp, let's see if we can actually find the right place.

[00:02:25]Turns out we were a half mile early. Pro tip, avoid power pole road if you're trying this at home.

[00:02:35]The stress of the 95 fades pretty quickly once the pavement ends. We're now on Arizona State Trust land. And the best part, we've practically got the place to ourselves.

[00:02:47]Now, unlike BLM land, staying here requires a bit of homework. You need a permit before you can even pull off the highway. It's not exactly a secret, but it's definitely less traveled than the state parks nearby.

[00:03:01]It's a unique arrangement. The state manages millions of these acres to fund schools and local services. For us, it means 14 days of primitive solitude and a front row seat to the Mojave Sonorin transition zone. No hookups, no crowds, just the way we like it. The permit runs $20 for a family and it's good for one year from the day you buy it. It's a very economical way to secure a worldass view.

[00:03:32]We found what looks like a winner. After scouting the approach, it looks like we can get the rig back in there without any drama. It's level enough, and best of all, it comes with a front row seat to the Colorado River.

[00:03:49]We've got a few neighbors, but in the desert close is measured in acres, not feet. It's the kind of social distancing we can get behind.

[00:04:07]Yeah, this is going to work quite nicely as home for the next week.

[00:04:16]setup is a welloiled machine. Jacks down, slides out, and the house is officially open. And while we did get her level, it was a close call. We're definitely on a bit of a slope here.

[00:04:34]Now that we're settled, let's see if we can access the river. There's a track here that seems to lead right towards the bank, and the drone footage suggests it should get us there.

[00:04:49]The walk down is easy. The road is good enough for a truck, though you might want four-wheel drive for a couple of steep spots. We definitely don't recommend trying to drag your rig down here.

[00:05:06]Our walk is briefly interrupted by a squadron of planes flying overhead.

[00:05:11]Given the neighborhood, this has to be the West Coast Ravens.

[00:05:17]If you happen to know how to decode this sign, please drop us a comment. It looks more like a glitch in the Matrix than a trail marker.

[00:05:26]And you know what happens when you get close to the water?

[00:05:31]Bugs happen. Fortunately, they seem to be staying down here by the shoreline and away from the RV.

[00:05:47]We have an idea that if we can get across to that point, we might have a spectacular view of the bend. The question is, can we actually get there?

[00:05:57]So, we do what we usually do when the terrain looks questionable. We scout it with the drone.

[00:06:06]It looks like there's a faint trail cutting through the brush, so we're going to give it a try.

[00:06:17]These reeds are home to a massive population of American coots. They aren't quite ducks, but they're expert navigators of the shoreline. They use the thick growth as a fortress, only surfacing to see if we've brought any snacks. We didn't.

[00:06:35]From up here, you can see exactly where our plan falls apart. What looked like a clear trail has completely dissipated into the cliff. Reaching that point across from us isn't on today's agenda, especially with the sun dropping fast.

[00:06:59]After a bit of scurrying, we get back on track and head for camp. It was a nice walk, but the desert isn't a place where you want to lose the light.

[00:07:32]One of the most iconic hikes in the area has to be Sarah's Crack located right near the fairgrounds.

[00:07:44]We're joining a few friends to see if we can follow this slot canyon all the way down to the shoreline. Word is there's a pretty spectacular spot for a picnic once we hit the water.

[00:07:58]The crack is a slot canyon that gets remarkably narrow in some spots, but it's generally navigable. Let's see just how tight this squeeze really is.

[00:08:11]Walking down through here, one thing is for certain. This is definitely not the place you want to be during a rain event.

[00:08:20]We understand there's an alternative route back, so we don't necessarily have to climb back up through the slots if it gets too steep. That's a bit of intel that makes the descent much more enjoyable.

[00:08:33]Just like that, Michelle from the Wandering Shore shows us how to repel this section like a pro. Good job.

[00:08:46]Nice.

[00:08:49]>> And Rick's not looking too bad himself.

[00:08:57]I bet you're wondering, how did this get the name Sarah's Crack? Its official name is the Crack in the Mountain Trail, and it's easily one of the most popular slot canyons in all of Arizona.

[00:09:12]The park we're in is actually the Special Activities Recreation Area or Sarah for short.

[00:09:19]>> You got it.

[00:09:19]>> So, naturally, the locals have rebranded it as Sarah's Crack.

[00:09:28]This entire area used to be BLM land, but back in 1974, it was leased to the county, who at the time had zero budget to actually improve it. But a familiar theme emerged. A dedicated group of volunteers took over and helped carve out the park we see today.

[00:09:57]>> So after all that scrambling, what's the reward? A pristine view of Lake Havsu and Balance Rock. A perspective you just can't get from a car window.

[00:10:13]If slot canyons aren't your thing, no worries. The park has upwards of 80 m of trails, many of them shared with mountain bikes and horseback riders.

[00:10:34]I don't know.

[00:10:36]One spot that's been high on our must-see list is the Craggy Wash camping area. We're headed there now to see if it lives up to the legendary status it holds in the desert.

[00:10:48]Sitting about 10 mi north of town, right off the 95, this is basically a famous desert hub in the world of boondocking.

[00:10:58]Now, fair warning, this stretch we're driving through is a no camping zone.

[00:11:03]The signs at the entrance make it clear.

[00:11:05]The actual sights don't start until you're much deeper in.

[00:11:11]And we just crossed the line. This is where the camping officially begins.

[00:11:17]Recent rains have done something rare here. They've turned the desert green.

[00:11:22]Usually, it's all red rock and shades of brown, but today it's looking remarkably lush for a wash.

[00:11:38]It's definitely busy, but as we push further back, the crowds start to thin out. There's still hope for some solitude if you're willing to put in the miles.

[00:11:50]This was just a quick reconnaissance mission, but it's definitely going to be on the maybe pile for next time. For now, we move on.

[00:12:08]There's another option for staying in Havasu in an RV, and that is to join the annual Escapers Bash for a fun-filled week with friends, both new and old.

[00:12:21]Hosted at the Sarah Park Fairgrounds, this event happens annually and draws a massive crowd of RV enthusiasts from all over the country.

[00:12:32]We were fortunate enough to camp with our friends Kyle and Michelle of the Wandering Shores, veterans of this event, who kindly showed us the ropes for our very first time.

[00:12:45]In addition to us, there were several other couples in the caravan, making for a pretty impressive neighborhood of friends.

[00:12:58]Check-in is incredibly smooth, and everyone is genuinely friendly and helpful. It's a great way to catch up with folks you might not have crossed paths with for a long time.

[00:13:10]And who knows, if your timing is right, you might even score some free donuts.

[00:13:20]This week is chalk full of activities and it all kicks off with the orientation meeting immediately following registration.

[00:13:31]>> We are going to say good evening eggs.

[00:13:38]This is where you learn about the seminars, the catering, and the social events that will keep you busy for the next several days. There's so much going on that we can only show a few highlights here.

[00:13:54]Many of the events involve elaborate costumes, and it's impressive to see just how creative this community can be.

[00:14:05]Then there's the famous best cocktail competition. Everyone wants to be a judge for that.

[00:14:24]And let me tell you, some of these entries are surprisingly professional and effective.

[00:14:38]You can expect live entertainment.

[00:14:41]Everything from standup comedy to live music and of course the legendary onesie parade that officially kicks off the Olympics.

[00:15:09]Speaking of the Olympics, anyone can form a team to compete. The events are fun, but the competition is often more intense than you'd think.

[00:15:33]WE'RE GOING TO TAKE ON THE WORLD.

[00:15:34]STANDING ON TOP. We got to make it our own. No waiting around. Winners will never look down. No one can stop us. We got it. The future is right in our hands. Give it 100%. We going to take on the world. Yeah. We got to move.

[00:15:52]Speaking the truth. Yeah, paying our dues. We making the news. We hitting the roof. We don't want to lose.

[00:16:01]>> The rivalry doesn't stop at the games.

[00:16:03]There are food contests as well.

[00:16:10]All in all, the bash is a fantastic experience and a wonderful way to make new friends while in Habsu. But we move on now.

[00:16:25]Now, if you're thirsty and don't mind a bit of an adventurous drive, Havasu has the perfect spot for you.

[00:16:34]The Bunker Bar is a completely off-grid establishment offering food, cold drinks, and live entertainment in a setting you won't soon forget.

[00:16:46]You'll find all sorts of off-road enthusiasts here, though you can manage the 2 and 1/2 mile dirt road in almost any vehicle if you take it slow.

[00:16:59]Similar to Parker's famous desert bar, the Nelly E Saloon, this place is entirely off-grid and tucked away in the middle of the desert.

[00:17:10]Here you'll find a wide variety of drinks with plenty of local Arizona beers on tap.

[00:17:33]Right around the corner, you'll find the food options offering simple but satisfying fair like burgers and fried favorites. It's And if you've got a bit of a sweet tooth, well, they had that covered, too.

[00:18:09]When you visit, you might pick up on a distinct MASH vibe because the whole place looks a bit like a military forward operating base.

[00:18:19]Of course, not many FOBs offer regular live music quite like you find here.

[00:18:26]What's truly amazing is that this entire operation runs on solar. Everything from the sound stage to the beer keg coolers is powered by the desert sun.

[00:18:44]So, you can take some pride in the fact that by having a beer here, you're technically doing your part to save the planet. Sure. Well, we have plenty more to cover. So, we move on.

[00:18:58]After the dusty road to the bunker bar, we're ready for a change of pace and a change of scenery.

[00:19:06]Just north of London Bridge, you'll find the dock for the Tacopa Ferry, which shuttles passengers across the river to the Havasu Landing Resort and Casino.

[00:19:20]The round trip sets you back $5 per adult, and the ride takes about 15 minutes each way. It's easily the least expensive way to get out on the water and see the skyline from a new perspective.

[00:19:40]They run roughly every hour and there's plenty of convenient parking available right at the dock.

[00:19:50]Watching that ferry come in, it's not immediately clear how it's going to turn around. It's a remarkably tight fit in this part of the channel.

[00:20:03]But they perform some maritime magic and pull off a U-turn in very short space.

[00:20:08]It's enough to make any RV owners envious of that tight turning radius.

[00:20:17]The casino itself is operated by the Shimoei Indian tribe and features a full restaurant alongside a 48 room hotel.

[00:20:37]There's also the Heikan Lounge, a sports bar with both indoor and outdoor seating that offers a fantastic view of the river traffic.

[00:20:52]Whether you enjoy gambling or not, it's a worthwhile outing. You can head over just to grab a beer and enjoy the breeze like we did or make a full day of it.

[00:21:08]It's a clean, well-run establishment and a great excuse to spend some time out on the Colorado.

[00:21:26]Lake Havasu City has a number of great eating auctions and we are on a quest to experience one of the local favorites tonight.

[00:21:38]Just across the London Bridge on the island, you'll find a resort and recreation hub with plenty of lodging and most importantly eeries.

[00:21:51]We were told to visit the Island Mall, specifically Barley Brothers Grill, which sits right on the other side of the bridge.

[00:22:09]They're pretty busy tonight, but they happen to have a spot at the bar that fits us perfectly. So, that's where we're headed.

[00:22:24]Now, if you find yourself wanting to try all the brews, but don't want to commit to a full pint each, you can do what we did. Order a flight.

[00:22:35]This way, you can sample the range.

[00:22:38]Though, I can tell you that even after that flight, deciding on a favorite isn't easy. They're all remarkably good.

[00:22:49]They have some fantastic food choices as well. We landed on the seafood Caesar salad and the garlic cheese bread with marinara sauce.

[00:23:04]They were happy to split the salad for us and even then the portions were huge.

[00:23:09]I can't imagine trying to finish one of these solo.

[00:23:18]Harley Brothers is a definite winner in our book and we will certainly be back.

[00:23:23]We highly recommend you check it out when you're in town.

[00:23:31]Lake Havasu is famous for its miles of accessible shoreline, deep turquoise waters, and spectacular desert views.

[00:23:43]The juxtaposition of the deep blue water against the rugged desert mountains strikes an interesting sense of balance between the extremes.

[00:23:56]Now you will notice a lot of lighouses scattered across the shoreline. In fact, Lake Havsu has more lighouses than any other city in the country.

[00:24:08]The story behind them stems back to the late '9s. Before these were built, the shoreline was pitch black at night, leading to several serious boating accidents.

[00:24:21]In an effort to change that, a group of concerned citizens formed the Lake Havsu Lighthouse Club with a specific mission to improve safety.

[00:24:34]Instead of installing boring industrial lights, the club decided to build 1/3 scale replicas of famous historic lighouses from the east coast, the West Coast, and the Great Lakes.

[00:24:50]As of today, 28 lighouses pepper the 450m shoreline. The east coast replicas sit on the east side. West Coast versions on the west and those from the Great Lakes are positioned right in the center on the island.

[00:25:08]Now that you know more about lighouses than you ever wanted to, let's explore the area's most unique feature, the London Bridge.

[00:25:21]So, how did a 19th century bridge from England end up in the middle of the Arizona desert? In the late60s, the city's founder, Robert McCullik, needed a gimmick to attract land buyers. When he heard the city of London, was selling their sinking bridge. He bought it for a cool $2.4 million.

[00:25:44]Moving it wasn't exactly a prime delivery. Workers meticulously numbered over 10,000 blocks of the exterior granite. They were shipped through the Panama Canal to California, then trucked across the desert. It's basically the world's largest jigsaw puzzle.

[00:26:10]And if you look closely at the granite today, you can still see the original numbering etched into the stones by the masons.

[00:26:25]But here's the crazy part. When they started rebuilding it, there was no water here. They built the entire bridge on solid, dry land, a sandy peninsula known as Pittsburgh Point.

[00:26:41]Once the bridge was standing in the middle of the dirt, they dredged a mileong channel underneath it, letting the water flow in for the first time.

[00:26:50]They didn't just build a bridge, they literally changed the map.

[00:26:58]That dredging project is what created the island you see today. By cutting that channel, they severed the peninsula from the mainland, turning it into a 400 acre hub for resorts and recreation.

[00:27:12]So, the bridge isn't just a way to get across the water. It's the reason the water and the island exist in the first place. Not bad for a gimmick, right?

[00:27:28]Havasu is famous for its events, and today we're exploring one of the biggest, the Balloon Fiesta. But before we get into the festivities, we need to fuel up for the day.

[00:27:43]Peggy's Sunrise Cafe is the perfect spot for breakfast. It's nothing fancy, just massive portions of great food, friendly service, and very reasonable prices.

[00:28:00]Keep in mind they get quite busy on the weekends. You'll want to get here early or be prepared to wait in line.

[00:28:11]Dang is having the California omelette and I splurged on the corn beef hash with poached eggs.

[00:28:22]Let's just say we're going to be just fine until dinner.

[00:28:41]The fiesta itself is held right at the lake Havasu State Park. In addition to the balloons, they have exhibits, shows, and live entertainment that really rounds out the experience.

[00:28:59]For instance, they have classic cars.

[00:29:14]And you might spot a Makullik J2 gyroplane. A fascinating attempt in the early7s to create an aircraft suitable for the average American. Unfortunately, it never quite achieved liftoff in the mass market.

[00:29:32]You've heard us mention the name McCullik several times, and that's because this town didn't just happen. It was engineered.

[00:29:41]Famed chainsaw pioneer Robert McCullik was the ultimate desert visionary.

[00:29:46]Moving the London Bridge here wasn't just a stunt.

[00:29:53]He literally built his manufacturing empire in the middle of the dirt to provide the town with a functional economy.

[00:30:01]While the shows and exhibits are fascinating, here's a very important tip for anyone planning to visit a balloon fiesta.

[00:30:14]Check the weather forecast.

[00:30:17]As you'll notice, there isn't a single balloon in the sky today. The wind is just too strong, which means they can't even safely inflate them, let alone send them up.

[00:30:37]Even without the balloons, it's a great event to visit. Very reminiscent of a highquality county fair. But the admission price is a bit steep when the main attraction is grounded.

[00:30:56]If you happen to be fortunate enough to visit toward the end of January, you're in luck. Havasu hosts a massive street fair known as Winterfest that you definitely won't want to miss.

[00:31:12]Held right in the middle of the downtown area on McCullik Road, this event takes over several blocks and offers everything you'd expect from a premier street fair and perhaps a few things you wouldn't expect.

[00:31:31]It's a great opportunity for both locals and visitors to get out and enjoy Havasu's typically perfect winter weather and mix with a community.

[00:31:43]And yes, your four-legged friends are more than welcome to join in on the fun.

[00:31:52]Whether you're interested in collecting a new sculpture or piece of art, or maybe just looking for something unique to spice up your culinary pantry, Winterfest has you covered.

[00:32:07]Or maybe you just want to sit back and enjoy a cold beverage and some live music. Well, they have plenty of that on tap, too.

[00:32:31]Winterfest isn't just a weekend fair.

[00:32:34]It's a 40-year tradition. For four decades, this event has signaled the height of the season, proving that even in the middle of the desert, Havsu knows how to throw a party that stands the test of time.

[00:32:59]So, there it is. Our version of an ideal place to stay in the middle of winter.

[00:33:04]Lake Havsu has a lot to offer, and we've only covered a small fraction of it in this video. We encourage you to leave us a comment and let us know what parts we missed. Until next time, happy camping.