Needles, founded in 1883, is one of the oldest living communities on the Colorado River. Mojave Indians lived in this valley long before settlers came to the area. Arrival of the railroad at the Colorado River in 1883 actually caused the founding of the town. The new settlement was named "The Needles", after the sharp peaks at the south end of the valley.
Needles provides many attractions to its winter and summer visitors. The East Mojave National Scenic Area offers desert scenery and wildlife. The Colorado River has some of the finest boating and fishing in the area. The Needles Municipal Golf Course, which overlooks the river, is a professional 18-hole course. The Topock Gorge and Havasu Wildlife Refuge area are also areas of interest.
Needles is located on Interstate 40, next to the Colorado River.
Needles is part of the Riverside-San Bernardino, California metro area.