AZ or Joshua Tree?

Probably seems like a dumb question to you westerners, but I've got a family trip planned in early June. We're staying in Lake Havasu City. Was wondering where would be the best place for a day of family-friendly climbing. We've got extensive outdoor experience at the Red, but would still need a guide. Would love some referrals there also. Thanks for any tips!

June tends to be the hottest month of the year for much of AZ until the seasonal monsoon starts, usually around the 4th of July. Lake Havasu is particularly brutal at that time of year and will literally feel like Hades. Joshua Tree is significantly higher in elevation than Havasu but could still be too hot to be comfortable. Your best option will likely be Las Vegas. Shady canyons in Red Rocks early in the morning would probably be good and your best bet is likely to head up to Mt. Charleston.

Thanks for the info! I have climbed on some miserable days at the Red. Hot and humid. I'll definitely check out Mt Charleston!

+1 for Charleston as a good option. 

Flagstaff is about 3 hours from Havasu (~same as J-tree & Charleston) and a handful of crags in the area are climbable in June. In addition to cooler temps, many Flag area crags have shade, unlike most of J-tree.

Both Paradise Forks and The Pit are worth the drive to Flag plus there's also a bunch of other stuff there. Sedona would be warm but not too hot, IMO, especially since it's dry.

And! If you're a carnivore that finds yourself in Flagstaff check out Diablo Burger, which is also worth the drive all on its own. Or The Heartline Cafe in Sedona! Both are great.

I'm DEFINITELY a carnivore!

Oak Creek Canyon Overlook is excellent climbing as well and just a few minutes from swimming at Slide Rock in Oak Creek. Great for the Fam and college kids!

Black mountains is close to Lake havasu and it is family friendly sport climbing.   Right now go right at 12:00 It seems crazy but by the time there is shade you will be in shade.