Unique Renaissance Faire Camping at London Bridge, Lake Havasu - Phoenix

Unique Renaissance Faire Camping at London Bridge, Lake Havasu

Phoenixeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

Full-day event with overnight camping

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels as the event does not involve strenuous activity

Overview

Camp beside the iconic London Bridge Renaissance Faire in Lake Havasu and step into a desert festival where history, crafts, and vibrant performances come alive under the Arizona sky.

Details

Lake Havasu City, Arizona, sits where the Mojave Desert meets the Colorado River, a striking contrast of arid landscape with vibrant waters. Known primarily for the iconic London Bridge relocated from England, this city offers more than just scenic waterways — it hosts the London Bridge Renaissance Faire, a distinct adventure that blends outdoor living with historical reenactment energy.

The London Bridge Renaissance Faire provides a rare experience: admission to a lively, medieval-themed event alongside guest camping. For visitors craving a unique mix of festival excitement and outdoor immersion, the camping package offers proximity to the fair’s interactive jousts, artisan vendors, and theatrical performances, all framed by the desert’s warm evenings and star-filled skies. This is not a traditional wilderness camping trip: the setting combines the spirited atmosphere of renaissance tradition with the practical ease of a well-managed site.

What makes this destination singular in Arizona’s outdoor scene is the blend of cultural heritage and outdoor leisure within a desert environment. Most visitors arrive drawn by the promise of historical costumes and crafts, but find themselves drawn deeper into the rhythms of the desert night and the community forged around the campfires. Nearby, the Colorado River’s presence softens the desert heat, encouraging evening strolls and moments of calm between the day’s festivities.

The London Bridge Renaissance Faire stands out amidst Lake Havasu’s typical outdoor offerings — water sports and desert trails — by creating an event-based outdoor experience. It’s where cultural storytelling meets the kind of outdoors that allows for comfortable, engaging group participation. For travelers who want a break from conventional hikes or river excursions, this event’s blend of camping and festivity opens a door to a different side of outdoor adventure, one steeped in historical fun and Arizona’s natural allure.

Adventure Tips

Bring layered clothing

Desert temperatures vary greatly from day to night; layers keep you comfortable during cooler evenings.

Pack sun protection

The desert sun is strong—sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are crucial during daytime hours.

Arrive early to secure camping spots

Popular events fill quickly; early arrival guarantees a better camp location near the festivities.

Stay hydrated

With desert dryness and active days, drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The nearby Rotary Community Park with riverfront trails
  • Small artisan shops in downtown Lake Havasu City

Wildlife

  • Desert cottontail rabbits
  • Western whiptail lizards

History

The London Bridge was relocated to Lake Havasu City in 1971, giving the area a unique British cultural landmark in the desert.

Conservation

Event organizers encourage leave-no-trace camping practices to preserve the desert ecosystem around the faire grounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Sunrise
Sunset

Best Viewpoints

  • Overlook points near the Colorado River
  • Faire performance stages
  • Campfire gathering areas

What to Photograph

Historic London Bridge structure
Renaissance costumes and performances
Desert landscape silhouettes at dusk

Recommended Gear

Camping tent

Essential

Provides shelter during overnight stays adjacent to the faire grounds.

Sunhat

Essential

Protects from intense desert sun during daytime outdoor activities.

summer specific

Sleeping bag rated for desert nights

Essential

Ensures warmth during cool to cold desert nights.

fall|winter specific

Water bottle or hydration pack

Essential

Maintains hydration in dry desert air throughout the fair and camping.