When you live in the desert, the lake provides a welcome respite from the heat. But as temperatures begin to fall, the desert surroundings take on a life of their own. And now that we have officially entered the fall season, it's time for one of the most fun venues in the area to open up: the Havasu Bunker Bar.

What: Havasu Bunker Bar

Where: 6942 N Thirsty Lizard Rd

When: Every Fri, Sat & Sun from October through April

Contact: (928) 230-3232

In the heat of the summer, a trip out to a bar in the desert with no air conditioning may not sound exactly like heaven. So, this particular bar only operates when the temperatures stay well below the triple-digit mark. The Bunker Bar stays open from noon to 4 pm on Fridays and noon to 5 pm on Saturdays and Sundays (except for Easter Sunday) from the beginning of October all the way through April. Each weekend features a different musical act providing live entertainment. Emmanuel Solo opens the season up on Friday, October 3rd. Crosscut performs live on Saturday and Sunday. Off-road vehicles will have no trouble accessing this location. Some passenger cars may also be able to navigate the trails. But beware that the trails are not maintained. So, it could get rough.

Also opening up the same weekend, the Desert Bar in Parker provides more off-road fun for those in the Havasu area. They are open on Saturdays and Sundays only (except Easter Sunday) from noon until sundown. This location is a little more remote than the Bunker Bar. Solar power fuels their operation. So does cash. That means no credit or debit cards and no ATM on-site. Make sure you bring plenty of cash with you. They do have a grill to cook burgers and hot dogs on. So you are not going to starve while watching the live entertainment. They even have horseshoe pits for anyone interested in playing. Their opening day falls on Saturday, October 4th.