Ways to Wellness in AZ's West Coast
River Island State Park
Day 1 on the road to wellness starts off at River Island State Park, located three hours northwest of Phoenix, in Parker, Ariz.
Along the shores of the mighty Colorado River lies a year-round destination for those looking for seclusion while escaping to the desert for a water-filled adventure. River Island State Park offers trails for hikers and access to off-highway-vehicle (OHV) backcountry roads, while those looking to stay on the water can do so. Camping here is a must: You will be rewarded with riverfront and distant mountain views.
On the agenda? A soulful swim and riverside yoga. (Photo: @jilliancampsarizona on Instagram)
Instagram: @azstateparks, #riverislandstatepark
Beachside Picnic with Desert Boho Events
After settling into camp it's time for dinner.
With help from Lake Havasu City-based Desert Boho Events, arrange for a surprise boho-chic picnic on the shores of the beach. No matter your vibe, they can deliver on your vision for your next private event, wedding, bachelorette party or simply a luxury picnic experience for the self-care seeker in all of us. (Photo: @darlingdoubtphotos on Instagram)
Instagram: @desertbohoevents
Buckskin Mountain State Park
After a night's rest camping under the stars and breakfast, explore nearby Buckskin Mountain State Park. From swimming to hiking and camping, visitors can do it all at this picturesque waterside escape located along the remote Parker Strip. Stay ashore and play on the beach, or bring your boat for some fun on the vivid blue waters, and soak in the nearby mountain views. We recommend a hike on the nearby trails followed by lunch, and then stand-up paddleboarding on the smooth water.
Instagram: @azstateparks, ##buckskinmountainstatepark
Stars and S’mores
Spend the evening around a campfire swapping stories, making s'mores, or just relaxing under the stars.
Cattail Cove State Park
After breakfast, pack up camp and make your way to Cattail Cove State Park for some swimming and kayaking.
Visitors to this park can enjoy a multitude of activities from fishing, swimming, boating or just lounging under the sun on the white-sand beach and blue waters of Lake Havasu. Wellness enthusiasts can take part in beach yoga, kayaking, and maybe even a stand-up paddleboard session. (Photo: @isaac.l.nelson on Instagram)
Instagram: @azstateparks, #cattailcove
Lake Havasu State Park
By now you're probably feeling peckish. Get some dinner, and with muscles fully engaged and positive endorphins flowing, spend your afternoon soaking in the panoramic lakefront views of western Arizona and the scenic shoreline of Lake Havasu State Park.
Instagram: @azstateparks, #lakehavasustatepark
Sunset Copper Canyon Island Tour
For the grand finale, get a front-row seat to sunset's orange, red and occasionally purple hues on a boat tour with Sunset Charter & Tour Co.
Copper Canyon is considered the most scenic canyon on Lake Havasu. There's no better time to experience it than late in the day, during the "golden hour" when the sun begins to set. Different shadows appear and vibrant colors dance on the rocks as the evening settles and the calm water invites guests to slow down and marvel at its wonders. (Photo: Kyle Huber)
Instagram: @sunsetchartertourlhc