Cattail Cove State Park: Camping, Boating, RV Sites & Everything You Need to Know
Just 15 miles south of Lake Havasu City, Cattail Cove State Park combines waterfront camping, boating, hiking, fishing and incredible Arizona scenery in one unique Colorado River destination.
But what is it actually like to camp here? Which campsites should you look for? Can you leave your boat in the water overnight? Is Cattail Cove pet friendly? Is there Wi-Fi? And what should you know about the park’s newest camping area?
We went directly to the source.
Mohave Mortgage partnered with Arizona State Parks & Trails and Ranger Ron to create an in-depth tour of Cattail Cove State Park, including a look at the new Upper Cattail section and answers to some of the most common questions visitors have before booking a trip.
Where Is Cattail Cove State Park?
Cattail Cove State Park is located along the Colorado River approximately 15 miles south of Lake Havasu City, Arizona.
Its location makes it an easy getaway from Lake Havasu while offering a noticeably different experience from being in town. Here, the desert landscape runs directly into the water, with opportunities to camp, boat, fish, hike, swim, relax on the shoreline and experience some spectacular Arizona nights.
For RVers and campers who want to stay close to the water, Cattail Cove is an especially interesting option because of the variety of experiences available within one state park.
Take a Look at the New Upper Cattail Section
One of the highlights of our visit was getting to tour the new Upper Cattail section.
In the video, Ranger Ron takes us through the addition and explains what visitors can expect from this newer area of the park.
If you’ve visited Cattail Cove in the past, don’t assume you’ve seen everything the park has to offer. This expansion gives returning visitors another reason to take a fresh look at Cattail Cove.
Jump to 00:16 in our video for the Upper Cattail tour.
Camping & RVing at Cattail Cove
One of the biggest reasons people come to Cattail Cove is camping.
During our tour, we get into the questions RVers actually want answered before pulling into a campsite—including campsite options, amenities and even whether you can fit your recreational equipment at your site.
Have a boat or side-by-side with you?
At 03:01, Ranger Ron discusses campsite space and what campers bringing additional recreational equipment should consider.
And if you’re wondering which sites someone who knows this park well would choose, don’t miss 03:24, when we ask Ranger Ron about some of his favorite campsites in the park.
Booking a Campsite at Cattail Cove
Popular Arizona camping dates can require some advance planning, so we asked about booking strategies too.
At 05:34, you’ll find our discussion of booking tips and things to consider when planning your stay.
For current availability, campsite details, rates, rules and reservations, always confirm information directly with Arizona State Parks & Trails at AZStateParks.com before your trip.
Arizona State Parks Reservations: 877-697-2757
Boating at Cattail Cove State Park
Camping isn’t the only reason to visit Cattail Cove. Its direct access to the water makes the park particularly attractive to boaters enjoying Lake Havasu and the Colorado River.
The park has a full-service boat launch, making it possible to build a camping trip around days spent on the water.
In our video, we tour the beachfront area and boat launch beginning at 02:04.
Then we ask one of the questions boaters really want answered:
Can You Keep Your Boat in the Water Overnight at Cattail Cove?
Jump to 02:26 in the video to hear Ranger Ron explain what boaters need to know about keeping a boat in the water during their stay.
Because water levels, conditions, park policies and other factors can change, check current boating information with Arizona State Parks before relying on information from a previous visit.
Is Cattail Cove State Park Pet Friendly?
Yes, Cattail Cove is pet friendly, and this was one of the most common questions we received.
Pets can accompany you throughout the park, including at your campsite. Cattail Cove also has amenities specifically for four-legged visitors, including a dog park and designated dog beach.
Pets need to remain on leash where required, not only for their own safety but also out of consideration for the wildlife that naturally lives in and moves through this area.
Cattail Cove is a natural wildlife corridor with animals coming down to access the lake. If you’re camping with a dog, cat or other pet, remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
Ranger Ron and Dawn discuss pet rules, the dog park and what pet owners should know beginning at 01:11 in the video.
What Wildlife Can You See at Cattail Cove?
Part of what makes camping at Cattail Cove so special is that you’re sharing the landscape with Arizona wildlife.
Wildlife naturally uses the park and shoreline to access the lake, so visitors should enjoy animals from a safe and respectful distance and be particularly mindful when traveling with pets.
And there’s one Lake Havasu-area animal we specifically asked about: wild burros.
While wild burros are associated with the greater Lake Havasu area, you won’t find the wild burros at Cattail Cove State Park. They’re found on the California side of the lake.
Hear Ranger Ron discuss wildlife at Cattail Cove at 01:41.
Fishing at Cattail Cove
Yes, you can fish at Cattail Cove, too.
The Colorado River and Lake Havasu are known for their fishing opportunities, and at 03:53 in our tour, we talk about the types of fish visitors may encounter in the waters around the park.
If fishing is part of your trip, be sure to verify current Arizona fishing license requirements, regulations and limits before heading out.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Cattail Cove?
One of the advantages of Lake Havasu is that outdoor recreation isn’t confined to one short season—but the experience can change dramatically depending on when you visit.
At 04:58, we talk about the different seasons at Cattail Cove and what visitors can expect throughout the year.
Arizona desert temperatures can be extreme, particularly during summer, so always plan around current weather conditions and come prepared for the season.
Does Cattail Cove State Park Have Wi-Fi?
It’s one of the realities of modern RVing: sometimes you need to know whether you’ll be able to get connected before you book.
Whether you’re working from your RV, checking in with family or hoping to disconnect completely, we asked about connectivity at the park.
Jump to 06:22 in the video for Ranger Ron’s answer about Wi-Fi at Cattail Cove.
Connectivity and service can change, so consider information provided by the park directly to be the best source when internet access is essential to your stay.
Is Cattail Cove Quiet?
If you’re picturing mornings beside the water and peaceful evenings under the Arizona sky, you may be wondering how noisy the campground actually gets.
We asked.
At 07:03, Ranger Ron talks about noise and what campers can generally expect from the atmosphere at Cattail Cove.
How Are the Stars at Cattail Cove?
One of the experiences that’s easy to overlook when planning an Arizona camping trip happens after the sun goes down.
With Cattail Cove located away from the brighter lights of Lake Havasu City, visitors can experience some impressive desert skies.
We talk about dark skies and stargazing at 07:31 in the video.
If you’re staying overnight, give yourself some time outside after dark. The view above your campsite may end up being one of the most memorable parts of your trip.
Behind the Scenes: Cattail Cove’s Water Reclamation System
There’s another side of running a waterfront state park that visitors rarely get to see.
At 07:55, we take a look at Cattail Cove’s newer water reclamation system and learn more about some of the infrastructure supporting the park.
It’s a fascinating behind-the-scenes addition to the tour and a reminder of how much goes into maintaining outdoor spaces like Cattail Cove for Arizona residents and visitors.
How Do You Reserve Cattail Cove State Park?
For current reservations, rates, campsite availability, park alerts and official rules, visit Arizona State Parks & Trails at AZStateParks.com.
You can also call Arizona State Parks Reservations at 877-697-2757.
Our discussion about booking Cattail Cove begins at 08:39 in the video.
Cattail Cove State Park Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Cattail Cove State Park from Lake Havasu City?
Cattail Cove State Park is approximately 15 miles south of Lake Havasu City, Arizona, along the Colorado River.
Is Cattail Cove State Park good for RV camping?
Yes. Cattail Cove offers camping options for RV travelers, and our video covers the different camping areas, campsite considerations, amenities and tips for choosing and booking a site.
Is Cattail Cove State Park pet friendly?
Yes. Pets are welcome in the park, including at campsites. Cattail Cove also features a dog park and designated dog beach. Follow current park leash requirements and remain aware of wildlife, especially near the shoreline.
Can I bring my cat to Cattail Cove?
Yes. The park’s pet-friendly policies aren’t limited to dogs. Keep pets appropriately secured and follow current Arizona State Parks pet regulations during your stay.
Does Cattail Cove have a dog beach?
Yes. Cattail Cove State Park has a designated dog beach, giving visitors a place to enjoy the waterfront with their dogs while following park rules.
Are there wild burros at Cattail Cove State Park?
No. The wild burros people often associate with the Lake Havasu area are on the California side of the lake, not at Cattail Cove State Park.
Does Cattail Cove have a boat launch?
Yes. Cattail Cove has a full-service boat launch providing direct access to the water.
Can you leave your boat in the water overnight at Cattail Cove?
There are options for boaters staying at the park, but watch our conversation with Ranger Ron at 02:26 for the details and always verify current mooring rules and conditions directly with Arizona State Parks before your visit.
Can I bring a side-by-side or additional recreational equipment to my campsite?
Campsite size and configuration matter when bringing extra equipment. At 03:01 in our video, Ranger Ron explains what visitors should consider when determining whether their boat, side-by-side and other equipment will fit.
What are the best campsites at Cattail Cove?
The “best” campsite depends on what you’re looking for, but we asked Ranger Ron to share some of his favorite campsites at 03:24 in the full video.
Can you fish at Cattail Cove State Park?
Fishing is one of the recreational opportunities available around Cattail Cove. Check current Arizona fishing regulations and licensing requirements before fishing.
Does Cattail Cove State Park have Wi-Fi?
We asked Ranger Ron this exact question. Jump to 06:22 in our video for the park’s connectivity information. If internet access is essential for your trip, confirm current availability directly with the park before arriving.
Is Cattail Cove good for stargazing?
Its desert location away from the brighter areas of Lake Havasu City can provide beautiful nighttime skies. We discuss the park’s dark skies and stargazing experience at 07:31.
How do I book a campsite at Cattail Cove State Park?
Visit the official Arizona State Parks & Trails website at AZStateParks.com for current campsite availability, reservations, rates, park alerts and regulations. Reservations can also be reached at 877-697-2757.
Exploring the Places That Make Lake Havasu Home
At Mohave Mortgage, we spend a lot of time talking about homes—but we believe understanding a community means knowing what exists outside the front door, too.
That’s why we’re creating our Arizona State Parks & RV Parks series: to showcase the places, people and outdoor experiences that make the Lake Havasu area such a unique place to visit and call home.
A huge thank you to Arizona State Parks & Trails, Ranger Ron and the Cattail Cove team for collaborating with us and helping answer the questions visitors really want to know.
If you’re considering making Arizona home, you can also grab our FREE Home Buyer Guide at our Mohave Mortgage Linktree.
And be sure to subscribe to the Mohave Mortgage YouTube channel for more tours of Arizona State Parks, RV parks and things to do around Lake Havasu.
Video created and sponsored by Mohave Mortgage.
Mohave Mortgage
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