<P> Decades later, Hardyville would be resurrected as Bullhead City with the construction of Davis Dam between 1942 and 1953 . The dam was originally called Bullhead Dam after "Bull's Head Rock", a well - known rock formation along the Colorado River . Steam boats on the Colorado River used the rock as a navigation point . After the construction of Davis Dam, the water level rose and now almost completely covers the landmark . The community that arose during the construction of Bullhead Dam was nicknamed Bullhead . Bullhead City became the headquarters for the construction project, which was completed in 1953 . Thus the name Bullhead City was born . As the nearby Lake Mohave developed into a major tourism destination, and as the casino and resort town of Laughlin, Nevada sprouted up across the river, Bullhead City grew rapidly . </P> <P> In 1970, Bullhead City was the name of the six blocks that ran north - south along Highway 95 across the river from Don Laughlin's casino . About a thousand people lived in the original Bullhead City at that time, with about 3,000 people in Riviera . In 1984, the small communities of Bullhead City, Riviera, and Holiday Shores voted to incorporate, choosing the name "Bullhead City" for its historical significance . </P> <P> Bullhead City and the neighboring town of Laughlin, Nevada, have grown in popularity as tourist destinations, and so has the population . Today, tourism is by far the main economy in Bullhead City . In the summer months, tourists from all over come for water recreation on Lake Mohave and the Colorado River . Starting in the fall, tourists from colder states flock by the thousands in their motor homes because of the mild winters . </P> <P> Bullhead City is home to an international airport, two full - service hospitals, and a community college . The city has a stabilizing housing market . It also serves as the shopping hub of the tri-state area . </P>

Map of laughlin nv and bullhead city az