Bouse is in Western Arizona . It is in La Paz County. The town is located about halfway between Parker and Interstate 10 on State Highway 72. Parker is just 22 miles northwest of Bouse.
Bouse is a poplar retirement and visitor stop because of its mild winters. It is a place filled with natural beauty and history. The town sits at an elevation of 700 feet. The southwest desert climate has a winter low temperature of 39 degrees and a summer high temperature of 106 degrees. Clean air, outstanding weather, gorgeous desert views make Bouse appealing to both young growing families and those wanting to retiree.
History:
In 1906, the town of Bouse was settled. The town was originally named Brayton. The name was chosen to honor John Brayton Martin, who was in charge of the Brayton Commercial Company for the Harquahala Mine.
There are two stories as to how the name was changed to Bouse. One story says that when the postal application was filed in 1907, the applicants name Thomas Bouse was used instead of Brayton. Another story says, that the old timers in town wanted the name to be changed to honor the old timer Tom Bouse, who was a trader and storekeeper in town during the early days.

Today Bouse is an incorporated town. Agriculture is a major economic source. The abundance of groundwater and large sections of undeveloped land make Bouse a perfect place to farm. Tourism is becoming another source of income for the town. Visitors come to see the spectacular desert views, visit the numerous attractions located nearby and enjoy the mild winters.
Community Features:
There are several attractions that you wont want to miss. Swansea was once a copper mining town. At one time, it had close to 1,000 people living in town. When the mine closed in 1924, it became a ghost town. Visitors can head northeast out of Bouse on a dirt road for approximately 30 miles to see the towns remains. The Black Mountain Museum is located just one mile south of Bouse, on State Highway 72. The museum is a combination museum/ghost town/trading post. It is an eclectic spot filled with old stuff ranging from vintage automobiles to Indian artifacts. It is one stop that will keep your eyes roaming for more.

Visitors should check hours and days, before heading out to the museum. Camp Bouse Ninth Tank Group Memorial can be seen in Bouse, along State Highway 72, across from the A and C Mercantile Company. The memorial honors those who attended the secret Army base, during World War II in Butler Valley about 20 miles east of Bouse. The Army trained men to use a new tank designed for night warfare. The Bouse Fisherman Intaglio or geoglyph can be found along Plomosa Road near Bouse. The geoglyph is a large figure created by Indians long ago. It is believed that individuals removed the dark desert pavement stones and dug into the lighter colored soil to create the figure. The figure is an enormous human shape with outstretched arms. The story that revolves around the human shape says that the God, Kumastamo shoved a spear into the ground to make the Colorado River flow. An interpretive sign and plaque mark the intaglio. Visitors are asked to take care when visiting the site.
Events:
Founders Day November
Bouse Booster Christmas Bazaar December

Bouse is in Western Arizona . It is in La Paz County. The town is located about halfway between Parker and Interstate 10 on State Highway 72. Parker is just 22 miles northwest of Bouse.
Bouse is a poplar retirement and visitor stop because of its mild winters. It is a place filled with natural beauty and history. The town sits at an elevation of 700 feet. The southwest desert climate has a winter low temperature of 39 degrees and a summer high temperature of 106 degrees. Clean air, outstanding weather, gorgeous desert views make Bouse appealing to both young growing families and those wanting to retiree.
History:
In 1906, the town of Bouse was settled. The town was originally named Brayton. The name was chosen to honor John Brayton Martin, who was in charge of the Brayton Commercial Company for the Harquahala Mine.
There are two stories as to how the name was changed to Bouse. One story says that when the postal application was filed in 1907, the applicants name Thomas Bouse was used instead of Brayton. Another story says, that the old timers in town wanted the name to be changed to honor the old timer Tom Bouse, who was a trader and storekeeper in town during the early days.

Today Bouse is an incorporated town. Agriculture is a major economic source. The abundance of groundwater and large sections of undeveloped land make Bouse a perfect place to farm. Tourism is becoming another source of income for the town. Visitors come to see the spectacular desert views, visit the numerous attractions located nearby and enjoy the mild winters.
Community Features:
There are several attractions that you wont want to miss. Swansea was once a copper mining town. At one time, it had close to 1,000 people living in town. When the mine closed in 1924, it became a ghost town. Visitors can head northeast out of Bouse on a dirt road for approximately 30 miles to see the towns remains. The Black Mountain Museum is located just one mile south of Bouse, on State Highway 72. The museum is a combination museum/ghost town/trading post. It is an eclectic spot filled with old stuff ranging from vintage automobiles to Indian artifacts. It is one stop that will keep your eyes roaming for more.

Visitors should check hours and days, before heading out to the museum. Camp Bouse Ninth Tank Group Memorial can be seen in Bouse, along State Highway 72, across from the A and C Mercantile Company. The memorial honors those who attended the secret Army base, during World War II in Butler Valley about 20 miles east of Bouse. The Army trained men to use a new tank designed for night warfare. The Bouse Fisherman Intaglio or geoglyph can be found along Plomosa Road near Bouse. The geoglyph is a large figure created by Indians long ago. It is believed that individuals removed the dark desert pavement stones and dug into the lighter colored soil to create the figure. The figure is an enormous human shape with outstretched arms. The story that revolves around the human shape says that the God, Kumastamo shoved a spear into the ground to make the Colorado River flow. An interpretive sign and plaque mark the intaglio. Visitors are asked to take care when visiting the site.
Events:
Founders Day November
Bouse Booster Christmas Bazaar December

Parker Dam is known for being one of the deepest dams in the world. The dam creates Lake Havasu to the north and sends water to Southern California and Arizona for Phoenix and Tucson to the south.  The dam at first glance appears to be small, with only 85 feet of the concrete dam revealed above the water top. Yet, sixty-five percent of Parker Dam’s structure is below the Colorado riverbed.. It took workers time to dig deep into the riverbed, some 230 feet down.

 If you visit Parker Dam, you will want to take the self-guided tour. The tour drops down into the dam in an elevator to the generator room. In the generator room, visitors will see four turbines. You will also see maps and photos at the dam.  Parker Dam is open everyday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

The tour is free. Please make sure you give yourself 30 minutes to see Parker Dam.  You can get to Parker Dam by heading north out of Parker on Highway 95, for approximately 15 miles. The dam is on Highway 95. If you’re coming from Lake Havasu City or Bullhead City, you need to travel south on Highway 95, until you come to the dam.

For more information on Parker Dam, you can call (760) 663-3712.

There use to be a place called the Crossroads Campgrounds. It was a neat spot just north of Parker. I am not certain it still is open, maybe someone could let me know.

If it is, here is the information we had 10 years ago.

The grounds are open all year. There are 12 tent or RV units available. The maximum length for RV’s is 35 feet. Crossroads does provide vault toilets, a picnic area and fire grills. The Campground does not have drinking water or showers. The real treat to this camping site is that there is no fee to camp and reservations are not necessary.

 You can get to Crossroads Campgrounds from Parker by traveling north out of town on Highway 95, for approximately 8 miles. 

It is just past Cienega Springs. If you would like more information on this unique camping spot along the Colorado River outside of Parker, you may call 520-505-1200.

Colorado River Indian Tribes Museum and Library The Colorado River Indian Tribes Museum and Library features the Mohave, Chemehuevi, Navajo and Hopi Indian Tribes. You will learn about these tribes past and present. The museum has an extensive collection of locally made Indian crafts. The collection includes Chemehuevi basketry, Mojave pottery, Indian beads and jewelry. 

The museum also has a Beebee Brown Basket Collection, which is unique. The nearby ghost town of La Paz has contributed some pieces from long ago. You will enjoy going through this museum. There is so much to learn about the area and the people from the past. The library is adjacent to the museum. Here you will see original manuscripts and records dealing with the Native American cultures.

The Colorado River Indian Tribes Museum and Library is open Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and Saturdays 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. The museum is closed on Sundays and holidays. A small donation is appreciated for the entrance into the museum.

The museum is located off of Highway 95 at 2nd and Mohave in Parker. You can get there from Lake Havasu City or Bullhead City by taking Highway 95 south to Parker.If you would like more information on the museum and/or library, you can call (928) 669-9211

Going to Buckskin was the treat we all wanted. The sand and excitement of the river was a draw for locals and visitors as well. Buckskin Mountain State Park attracts nature and water lovers to the area.  The park is at an elevation of 420 feet and covers 1.677 acres.  Its perfect location along the Colorado River, draws hikers, campers, fishers, and water enthusiasts.  When you arrive at Buckskin Mountain State Park, you will want to go to the visitor center and look into all the activities that you can get involved in.

Campers will find showers, electric hook-ups, laundry facilities and a dump station.  There are 125 camping units.  Pets are allowed at the park.

If hiking is your desire, you will find picnic areas, picnic shelters, group use areas and hiking trails.  There are three developed trails for hikers to chose from, it is a hard decision.  The trails ascend from steep bluffs to panoramic views.  Buckskin Mountain State Park provides restrooms, h andicapped access and a concession st and.

Water lovers will enjoy the facilities that are offered at the park.  You will find a boat launch ramp and a gas dock.  The park is a perfect spot for boaters, swimmers and water skiers.  Those who enjoy fishing will discover this is the place to go to drop your line.  Large-mouth bass, crappie, channel catfish and bluegill can be found swimming in these waters.

Buckskin Mountain State Park is open every day from 8:00 to 10:00.  The admission for a private vehicle is $7.00 for weekends and holidays.  The charge for a private vehicle is a great price for weekdays.  Camping fees range from $12.00 to $30.00.  If you want more information on this park, you may call 928-667-3231.

You can get to Buckskin Mountain State Park from Parker by taking Highway 95 north out of town for approximately 11 miles.  You will see the signs for the park.  The park is associated with the River Island Unit, so don’t get confused with the signs.

You will have a great time at this park!

The first time I went down to Bluewater was in 1974. As a teen, it was the best place in world. In 74 the casino was no even on anyone’s drawing board. The charm was all in the river location and the beauty of the desert.

30 years later Bluewater changed. The charm is still there, but now there is world class fun to be had mixed with the beauty I remember so well.

The Bluewater Resort and Casino uses the draw of the Colorado River to entice its visitors. The resort casino has lots to offer. The resort has 200 rooms and suites with river views.

Casino entertainment is popular. You will find over 40 slots, non-stop gaming action (poker, keno and off-track pari-mutuel betting) and a large bingo parlor.  If you want like to cool off, you can take a dunk in the indoor water slide or pool. The food is great! There is 24-hour dining available. 

The dining options are varied from buffet to snack bars. The miniature golf and movie theater four-plex are just a sample of the activities offered at the resort and casino.  The Bluewater Resort and Casino is located near downtown Parker at 11222 Resort Drive (1-800-747-8777).

Growing up in Parker, I visited this area many times.  It is always a great Arizona adventure.  You can get to the refuge by traveling north out of Parker.  Just past the Parker Dam you will see the road east to the Bill Williams Wildlife Refuge.In 

The Bill Williams Wildlife Refuge was established over 60 years ago, making it one of the first along the river.  Since the 90’s, the refuge has been managed and maintained by six state and federal agencies.  It is an excellent resource for riparian, wildlife and fisheries.

There are few places in the world where you can see such a diverse assortment of plants and animals.  It is possible to st and in one spot and see a saguaro cactus, a cattail and and a cottonwood tree.  You will be amazed at the variety.  

This unique blend of upl and desert, marsh and desert riparian habitats provide numerous birds, mammals and reptiles.  Bill Williams Wildlife Refuge is a destination spot you won and #146;t want to miss.

Parker is in Western Arizona . It is in La Paz County. The town is located on Highway 95 along the Colorado River and California border. You can get to Parker from Bullhead or Lake Havasu City by taking Highway 95 south. You can get to Parker from Phoenix by taking Interstate 10 west out of town, to Quartzsite. At Quartzsite turn right and head north on Highway 95 to Parker. 
Parker is a fun recreational town on  Arizona ’s West Coast. It is a town that grew because of its location, along the Colorado River. Today Parker’s population is 2,975. The town sits at an elevation of 450 feet. The climate is hot in the summer, yet mild in the winter. The winter low is 38 degrees and the summer high is 108 degrees. Parker does receive a scattered amount of rainfall about 3 inches a year. There are so many recreational activities in Parker. It is a great town for boaters, fishers, and campers.

Parker is named after General Eli Parker, an American Indian and respected officer. General Parker was part of the staff for General Ulysses S. Grant. He was present during the surrender of Robert E. Lee, during the Civil War at Appomattox. Later, General Grant became United States Superintendent of Indian Affairs. While he held this position in 1865, the Colorado River Indian Reservation was created, along with the town of Parker. The original town was four miles south of the present day Parker. 

The reason the town moved north was due to the railroad. In 1905, both Arizona and California came together to built a bridge over the Colorado River. The site chosen was north of Parker and thus the town moved.  Parker was founded in 1908 and in 1948 the town was incorporated. Arizona voters decided to create a new county by taking part of Yuma County and naming it La Paz County. On January 1, 1983 Parker became the county seat for La Paz County.

There are some attractions you will want to enjoy during your visit to Parker. One of the biggest attractions is Parker Dam. This dam is known as one of the deepest in the country. The Bluewater Casino is another attraction. It is near downtown Parker. The casino has entertainment, gaming and a four-plex movie theater. The Colorado River Indian Tribes Museum and Library is a great place to learn more about the Native Americans that lived in the area long ago.

 Outdoor activities are definitely the highlights of Parker. You will want to see Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge, La Paz County Park and the Buckskin Mountain State Park. Both of these spots will let visitors see the beautiful area and its wildlife. Crossroads Campground is a terrific place to relax.

Parker Unified School District has four schools in the area. There are also six additional schools that service La Paz County. Three preschools and a Head-Start program are also available in Parker. Arizona Western College and Northern Arizona University offer classes in town.

Parker has a hospital with a helicopter pad and 39 beds to meet the medical needs of the town. La Paz County Regional Hospital is located on Mohave Road (928) 669-9201. There are physicians, dentists, optometrist and chiropractors available in town.

There is a local AM radio station and two local television stations. If you are interested in receiving a cable connection in Parker, you will need to contact Cable Vision at 1620 California Avenue (928) 669-2191.

There are a variety of churches to choose from such as:
Desert View Baptist 401 West 15th Street (928) 669-2490
Sacred Heart Catholic Church 916 11th Street (928) 669-2502
Valley Presbyterian Second and Mohave Road (928) 669-8193
United Methodist 1505 Arizona Avenue (928) 669-8913
Saint Phillips Episcopal 1209 Eagle Street (928) 669-9681
Seventh Day Adventist 909 Mohave Avenue (928) 550-0336
Latter Day Saints 14th and Reata (928) 669-2700
Messiah Lutheran 800 8th Street (928) 669-8964

Emerald Canyon Golf Course is a beautiful course open to the public all year round. The course offers spectacular views of the Colorado River, cliffs and ravines. You will find a full service golf shop, snack bar, driving range and practice greens. In addition, the Emerald Canyon Golf Course has a PGA Golf Pro and golf lessons. If you are interested in more information on playing, you may call (928) 667-3366.

Local Events:
Offroad Road Racing Season January
La Paz County Fair March
Parker Enduro Speedboat Race May
Annual Innertube River Float June
Fourth of July Fireworks Over the River July
International ‘Air Chair” Championships September
MS Best Dam Bike Ride November
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade December