Discovering Tranquility by the Colorado River

The Colorado River separates sun- kissed Southern California from the wild beauty of Arizona. Our family has been camping here since before my daughter was born, in fact I recall wakeboarding with her in my belly! In warmer weather, we dive into water adventures, while cooler months invite us to explore the land with toys and hikes. Spring brings a burst of wildflower colors amongst the desert backdrop, while fall grants the river all to yourself. The Colorado River offers a slice of adventure for every soul- and, oh, let’s not forget about the wild donkeys!

Where we Stay

Our family holds a membership at Emerald Cove, situated right on the river. For those patient enough to endure their presentations, a free stay is an option.

Emerald cove offers an array of amenities, including a convenient boat launch, a lively bar with food, drinks, tiki treats, and karaoke. Card players can indulge in games at the clubhouse. There are two heated pools for some volleyball games, aerobics, and relaxation, accompanied by two soothing jacuzzis.

The kids have loved the kid's club over the years where they do arts and crafts and video games. The campground also offers a new arcade, miniature golf, and a few pool tables.

Let's not forget the designated dog area, providing our furry friends with a private beach to roam and enjoy a refreshing swim.

Personally, I appreciate their laundry facilities, with an abundance of machines ensuring laundry day runs smoothly.

The campground often welcomes us with sightings of donkeys ( tip: keep your trash secured!)

While Emerald Cove has been a staple we have also explored other options like Havasu Springs Resort, Blue Water Resort and Casino, and most recently, Sunrise Adventures Ridgeview Resort. 

This resort offers a nice pool and family room. It is a short drive to the river and Laughlin. Our cousins who live in Kingman met us at Sunrise Adventures, we had the pool and family room to ourselves. 

Exploring the Colorado River

When we aren’t taking advantage of the campground amenities, you can find us on the water. Wakeboarding is one of my daughter’s favorite activities. The boat launch from Emerald Cove is very convenient. 

We also take our SUP boards and kayak out, when the river is not too busy.

Fishing is a must- our brother managed to catch some bass, treating us to delicious fish and chips.

For winter visits, take advantage of the many off roading trails. Have fun in your 4x4, dirt bikes, or side by sides. Food enthusiasts can venture out to the Desert Bar, for a delightful treat.

The river area offers something for everyone including off-roading, shooting, and geocaching-

our kids particularly enjoy geocaching . 

One of our memorable hikes was the SARA Crack Trail in Lake Havasu City. This 3.4-mile out-and-back trail has a moderate difficulty level, be sure to leave early as there is minimal shade.

Despite its challenges, we enjoyed this beautiful hike that led us down to the water, offering stunning views.

My son brought his RC truck to rock crawl, making it more fun for him. 

In essence, the river is our haven for tranquility, leisure, and adventure. We like to call the river the “East Coast of CA”. The water and sunsets are breathtaking. I prefer the serene times of spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, and the water invites a sense of calm and openness. While summer tends to draw crowds and party- goers (not my scene), the busier waters are a source of anxiety for me as a high school peer died from a tragic accident on a sea-doo, colliding with a boat. 

The river holds a reputation for lively gatherings- with its share of alcohol and its “ Itsy Bitsy, Teenie Weenie, Yellow Polka dot Bikinis,” but we don’t drink and we dress modestly and still have a blast! It’s all about personal perspective . For our family the river is akin to a second home, where our kids cherish a sense of security and adventure, turning it into their favorite playground. 

Bible Verse of the Day

2 Corinthians 4: 4-6 NLT

Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God. 

You see, we don’t go around preaching about ourselves. We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. 

Reflection

• When I read these verses I get 4  things from them:

1. God has allowed Satan to be the ruler of this world

2. The ruler of this world literally hinders the understanding of those who lack faith by obscuring the comprehension of the gospel. 

3. Humility is important, our focus should not be on portraying ourselves positively, but on recognizing that any goodness or light within us is a result of Jesus.

4. “Let there be light in the darkness” is a passage from Genesis. We are now the light in this dark world because Jesus Christ died for our sins, giving us the Holy Spirit who lives in us.

• One of my least favorite excuses people have for not believing in God is- if they believed in God, they would have to change their lifestyle. However, this is one of my favorite pieces of evidence that points not only to the existence of God, but to a God who loves us. You see, upon placing their trust in God, lives undergo a profound transformation. This can be seen in the transformation of the once hopeless addict liberated from addiction, a repeat offender turning their life around and visiting jail only to offer testimony to their former inmates or the mom who is enslaved to a life of busyness, acceptance, and envy only to find peace, self worth, and contentment. These are noticeable and visible testaments to the remarkable changes that faith can bring.

• Engaging with those who have experienced this transformation reveals their unwavering conviction- they wouldn’t choose to return to their former selves. Why do you think Christians can be so “pushy” or “overly enthusiastic” at times? They wish this newfound joy for friends and family out of genuine love and compassion. Now this doesn't mean they live a life free of storms, it means they now live in the calm amidst the storm. 

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

I praise you for your unwavering faithfulness, your genuine care for us, and your boundless love. May you broaden our understanding and open our hearts towards you. Shield us and our loved ones from the influences that try to obscure who you are. Help us to stand firm through your strength, love, truth, and goodness. May we be a light in this world acknowledging that we are nothing without you, but everything with you. Gratitude fills us knowing that through Jesus, we can confidently bring both minor and major concerns to you, knowing without a doubt you will respond. 

In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

*I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, feel free to leave a comment below.

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