Like Lake Havasu City which was built by one man (McCulloch of McCulloch chain saws), Laughlin was the bright idea of Don Laughlin who in 1966 built the first casino here and built the bridge across the Colorado River to Arizona. Now there are 10 casinos.
But that may be the end of the town growth. Note this hotel which was never completed. An attached golf course has gone out of business. And across the street is a huge complex with a coal-fired power plant. The plant no longer meets federal requirements and the cost to upgrade was too steep so the plant closed.
We stayed at Big Bend State Park which has recently opened their campground. Huge 50 amp full-hookup spots. The park's day area is right along the river. Not many people have heard that this campground is open so it was only a quarter full when we got here. Pretty spot just 5 miles out of town.
We came up here to visit cousin Carol who drove down from Kingman. Great visit. Had time to play a few penny and poker slots and came out ahead. Woohee! 