10 Things You Need for a Classic Parker Summer Weekend

It’s officially the beginning of summer on the Parker Strip! Here are 10 things you may need.

1. Cooler

What better place to start? You’ll need a cooler packed with ice so there’s always a cold one nearby. With temps reaching the upper 90s this weekend, it won’t take long before you’ll be reaching for one.

2. Sunglasses

For obvious reasons; and if they’re polarized, they’ll reduce the glare for a non-squinting weekend.

3. Watercraft

Everybody needs one! The boat is the ultimate watercraft for the Parker Strip, but if you don’t have access to one, several other forms of watercraft will do just fine: kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, jet skis, wave runners, inner tubes, floating mats, … air mattresses? Get out on the water and be safe!

4. Grill

If you don’t have a big propane grill where you’ll be, know this: many of the parks and resorts along the Colorado River come with their own built-in charcoal grills. If you manage to snag one of these spaces, you’ll be all set. Otherwise, there are many safe places to use those little disposable grills. Burger up!

5. Sunscreen

Don’t hesitate on this one. Slather that 50 SPF all over – especially when the UV Index is at its highest, from 11am until 3pm. Protect kids especially well.

6. Beverages

Alcoholic beverages are everywhere to be found on the Parker Strip, from the many riverside bars to all those coolers we were talking about earlier. To stay healthy in the heat, supplement with lots of water.

7. Swimwear

Board shorts and bikinis are just classic Parker attire. Whatever you’re wearing for the water, you won’t be out of place if you decide to wear it from sunrise till midnight.

8. Wheels

You’ll need to get around, even after the fun begins, so keep that in mind. Designate a driver for your group to take you to the grocery store, to the bar, to the restaurant, to the resort.

9. Snacks

If you’re out on the water this weekend, it won’t be hard to find food at the many riverfront establishments. But they can be busy, so pack your own snacks too! You know: Nibbles. Munchies. Morsels.

10. Phone

Take lots of pictures! Post them to social media with the hashtag #parkeraz! Stay in touch with your group! Cell service is still spotty in sections but way better than it ever has been before.

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Whatever you’re up to this weekend, enjoy yourself and be safe! To the locals who are hiding out in quiet, air conditioned houses watching TV; enjoy yourself too. Happy summer.

Photos: Melissa Wright Photography