Parker is on the east bank of the Colorado River. The Parker vicinity consists of a number of separate but interrelated areas: the Town of Parker, Parker South, the Arizona side of the Colorado River area and the communities on the California side. The town was established in 1871 and moved some four miles north to the site of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad crossing. In May 1982, by initiative petition, voters formed La Paz County from the northern portion of Yuma County. On Jan. 1, 1983, Parker became the county seat for La Paz County.

Principal Economic Activities

Parker's economy is based primarily on tourism, retail trade and services. The 16-mile strip of the Colorado River between Parker Dam and Headgate Rock Dam provides many water-based recreational activities and makes Parker a destination point for tourists and winter visitors. Parker serves as the trade and business center for the Colorado River Indian Reservation and area small towns. Agriculture, historically the major economic base of Parker, continues to contribute to the economy.

Scenic Attractions

The Colorado River and its lakes offer variety of water recreation activities. Parker Dam, the deepest dam in the world, is a must-see attraction. Buckskin State Park, 11 miles north, has acres of green grass and shade trees. River Island State Park has 26 campsites, day-use areas and boat launches. La Paz County Park, eight miles north, has campgrounds, showers, a launching ramp, a baseball diamond, tennis courts, hook-ups and a dump station. A variety of amenities are offered at the 30 RV parks and campgrounds. The surrounding desert is suitable for off-road vehicles and rockhounding. The Colorado River Indian Tribes operate a museum with an extensive collection of locally crafted Native American artifacts. The tribes also operate the Blue Water Resort, a 200-room hotel and casino. In January and October, two large off-road races are held and organized by Parker and Best in the Desert. The annual tube float is presented by the Parker Area Chamber of Commerce in June.

Community Facilities

Parker's community facilities include one museum, two libraries and the Colorado River Indian Tribal Museum. The recreational facilities include six area parks, two rodeo arenas, two senior centers, one 18-hole golf course, an Olympic-size swimming pool, three lighted tennis courts, a recreation center, a golf driving range and several basketball, handball and badminton courts. At the Blue Water Resort, there is miniature golf, an arcade and a movie theater.