Local Interests
Camping in Needles CA near Lake Havasu, Laughlin, and the Mojave National Preserve
Lake Havasu City
This Arizona town is an absolutely unique attraction. Charming Lake Havasu City offers a delightful English Village, a replica of London Bridge, plus a steamboat called the Dixie Belle. You can go gift shopping in the adorable waterfront town, check out the restaurants, or take a narrated tour on the Dixie Belle, hearing the story of this area’s past. Explore the more than 450 miles of coastline, root for your favorite rider at the rodeo, or rent a jet ski for a day of fun on the water. The Lake Havasu area offers fantastic outdoor activities like rock climbing, fishing, biking, golfing, and horseback riding.
Laughlin, Nevada
Perched on the banks of the Colorado River in the midst of Nevada’s scenic desert, Laughlin is a place where thrills abound. Head to the bright lights of this riverside city for gaming, golfing, shopping, and fun on the water. You can spend a day relaxing at one of their spas or head out on a gold rush mining tour. Enjoy a river cruise, a kayaking adventure, or head to Laughlin in the evening for its incredible nightlife and live entertainment. The best big acts frequent Laughlin’s stages, so you’ll find amazing concerts, comics, and other events to choose from. Laughlin is also known for its superb dining choices and for its clubs and dance spots.
Mojave National Preserve
This 1.6-million-acre park boasts a wide variety of ecosystems: Joshua Tree forests, sand dunes, cinder cones, and areas where wildflowers cover the desert floor. Explore the history of Southern California as you discover homesteads, military outposts, and mine shafts from another era. The park museum is housed in the lovely Kelso Depot, a building that served as the depot for the Union Pacific Railway from 1924 to 1985. After touring the museum, head out on the Mojave Road past Piute Spring and Soda Dry Lake, doing a little 4-wheel driving. Mojave National Preserve is an excellent place for hiking and backpacking, horseback riding, wildflower viewing, and photographing the dramatic sand dunes.
Lake Mohave
As part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, beautiful Lake Mohave offers an excellent way to explore the coves and shallows of the Colorado River. This 67-mile lake winds through stunning canyon walls, formed by the Pyramid, Painted, Eldorado and Black canyons. Only four miles wide at the widest spot, this lake is an amazing place for boating, fishing, swimming, and relaxing on the sandy beaches. Try water-skiing, jet-skiing, or go fishing for Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass and Striped Bass. With its desert setting, you’ll find perfect weather at Lake Mohave, plus incredible scenic views and vistas.