The Palms River Resort in Needles sits right on the Colorado River, centrally located between Laughlin and Lake Havasu. This is one of the newer parks in the area, and the facilities reflect it — a brand new pool with two spas, a children’s pool, water slide, and gas BBQs, plus a regulation-size tennis court. The clubhouse has been beautifully renovated with a game room, fitness center, modern kitchen, updated restrooms, and laundry facilities. A general store on-site covers the basics.

Dogs are welcome at the resort, and the riverside setting gives you and your pup plenty of room to explore. Morning walks along the beach area and around the grounds are a good way to start the day. The open desert just across the street offers endless BLM land for off-road adventures — you can literally walk out the front door into miles of open terrain if you want to get away from the developed areas for a bit.

For water-loving dogs, the river access includes a launch ramp, beach, and courtesy dock, so there are opportunities for your pup to splash around. The Colorado River has currents to respect, so you’ll want to keep an eye on your dog if they’re swimming. The resort also offers indoor and outdoor RV and boat storage units, which is convenient for longer stays or if you’re exploring the area and want to leave equipment behind.

Laughlin’s casinos are a short drive away if you want to head out for the evening, and several golf courses are located just minutes from the resort. Whether you’re a boater, angler, kayaker, or just looking for a warm spot to park your RV with your dog and enjoy river life, The Palms delivers solid facilities in a good location. From I-40 East, take the River Road cutoff, turn left on Needles Highway — the resort is on the right about a quarter mile down.