About Beaver Dam
Beaver Dam is a small, unincorporated census-designated place (CDP) in Mohave County, Arizona, located in the Arizona Strip. With a population of 1,552 as of the 2020 census, down from 1,962 in 2010, Beaver Dam offers a tranquil, rural lifestyle along the Virgin River, close to the Utah border and just off Interstate 15.
History and Origins
Beaver Dam’s history is tied to its strategic location along the Virgin River, which provided water for early settlers and agriculture. The community was named after a dam constructed by beavers on the river, reflecting its natural heritage. Established as a farming and ranching outpost, Beaver Dam grew with the development of Old U.S. Highway 91, now paralleled by Interstate 15, connecting it to nearby Mesquite, Nevada, and St. George, Utah.
Geography and Environment
Located at 36°54′14″N 113°55′54″W, Beaver Dam sits at an elevation of 1,840 feet and covers 8.5 square miles. The Virgin River runs through the community, creating a lush contrast to the surrounding arid desert. The Arizona Strip’s isolation, separated from the rest of Arizona by the Grand Canyon, gives Beaver Dam a unique sense of seclusion, with stunning views of the Virgin Mountains to the east and the Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness to the west.
The area enjoys a mild desert climate, with hot summers and cool winters, making it ideal for year-round outdoor activities. However, residents are mindful of moderate flood risks due to the Virgin River and occasional wildfires in the region.
Community and Lifestyle
Beaver Dam is a tight-knit community with a median age of 55.3 and a low population density of 182 people per square mile. The cost of living is affordable, with a median real estate price of $220,000, lower than 78.4% of Arizona neighborhoods. Housing consists primarily of mobile homes, single-family homes, and small ranches, with 82% of residents owning their properties. The average commute time is 20–25 minutes, often to Mesquite or St. George for work.
Demographically, Beaver Dam is diverse, with 30.1% of residents identifying Mexican ancestry, 15.4% German, 12.8% English, and 8.3% Irish. The community has a relaxed, suburban-rural vibe, appealing to retirees, families, and those seeking a slower pace of life.
Did You Know? Beaver Dam’s proximity to the Virgin River makes it a haven for birdwatchers, with species like the Southwestern willow flycatcher and yellow-billed cuckoo occasionally spotted in the riparian areas.
Recreation and Attractions
- Virgin River Recreation: Kayaking, fishing, and hiking along the Virgin River offer residents and visitors a chance to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
- Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness: Just west of the community, this 19,600-acre wilderness area provides trails for hiking, horseback riding, and stunning desert vistas.
- Proximity to Mesquite, Nevada: A 10-mile drive north, Mesquite offers golf courses, casinos, and dining, making it a popular day-trip destination.
- Zion National Park: Less than an hour away via St. George, Utah, this iconic park offers world-class hiking, rock climbing, and breathtaking scenery.
Education and Services
Beaver Dam is served by the Littlefield Unified School District, with Beaver Dam Elementary and Beaver Dam High School providing education through 12th grade. For higher education, residents can access Dixie State University in St. George, about 35 miles away. Emergency services are provided by the Beaver Dam-Littlefield Fire District, and the nearest medical facilities are in Mesquite or St. George.
Plan Your Visit
Access Beaver Dam via Interstate 15, just 10 miles south of Mesquite, Nevada, or 35 miles southwest of St. George, Utah. Stop by to explore the Virgin River’s serene beauty, hike in the Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness, or use Beaver Dam as a base for visiting nearby Zion National Park or the Grand Canyon’s North Rim (about 2 hours away). This charming community offers a perfect blend of solitude, outdoor adventure, and easy access to regional attractions.