Danger
Harmful Algae Bloom
A Harmful Algae Bloom has been confirmed in recent water samples taken from the Nelson's Landing and the Cottonwood Cove areas on Lake Mohave. To reduce health risks, the National Park Service recommends recreators limit body contact with these waters when algae is present. Please click here for pictures of this dangerous cyanobacteria and contact the Park at 702-293-8990 for updates on this advisory.
More infoCaution
Bacteria Levels at Arizona Hot Springs
Fecal bacteria in water samples taken from Arizona Hot Springs frequently reach high levels, which can transmit human diseases. To reduce health risks, the National Park Service recommends recreators limit body contact in these waters, clean after use, and to never put your head under water at hot springs. Please contact the Park at 702-293-8990 for updates on this advisory.
Park Closure
Seasonal Trail Closures Due to Extreme Heat May 15 – September 30
Goldstrike Canyon, Arizona Hot Springs, Liberty Bell Arch, White Rock Canyon, and Lone Palm trails will be closed for visitor and first responder safety. Please check the park website, social media, and weather for updates before visiting. Arizona, Goldstrike, and Lone Palm hot springs remain open and accessible by water.
More infoPark Closure
Government Wash Campground Seasonal Heat Closure May 15 – September 30
The Government Wash campground will close on May 15th to vehicle access and overnight camping to assess and manage area improvements and protect visitors and staff from extreme heat risks. The campground is anticipated to reopen for overnight stays on October 1st. It will remain open this summer to non-motorized vehicle access for daytime, non-camping related activities.
More infoLake Mead National Recreation Area
AZ · NV · Boulder City
Experience outdoor thrills, striking landscapes, and brilliant blue waters. This year-round recreation area spreads across 1.5 million acres of mountains, canyons, valleys and two vast reservoirs. Visitors come here for scenic drives, biking, hiking, boating, fishing, camping, and much more.
Riding guide
Horses provided
Highlights
Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers expansive desert riding set against blue water, red rock canyons, and wide-open…
Riding
Rideable terrain here is noted as 150-200 miles, giving riders a clearer sense of scale before they ever unload. Riders can explore ridgelines and open terrain often with far fewer crowds than nearby national parks. The environment is dry, exposed, and sun-intense for much of the year, so hydration and heat awareness are essential when planning your ride.
Rideable terrain
150-200 miles
Trailer parking
Best Horse Trailer Staging Areas Railroad Pass / River Mountains Loop Trail (Henderson side) One of the most reliable trailer-friendly staging areas. Why riders use it • Large open parking areas near Railroad Pass • Access to the River Mountains Loop Trail equestrian section • Good maneuvering room for larger rigs • Direct connection to desert riding routes About half of the River Mountains Loop Trail is open to equestrians, running from Railroad Pass toward Las Vegas Bay. 🥈 Callville Wash Road Turnout (Northshore Road area) A very common staging spot for backcountry riders. Features • Large dirt turnout suitable for trailers • Access to washes and desert routes • Used as a starting point for rides toward the Bowl of Fire area Riders often park at the large dirt turnout where Callville Wash Road meets Northshore Road before heading into the backcountry. Government Wash / 8-Mile Area Another primitive but useful staging option. Features • Large dispersed parking areas • Often used for primitive camping and staging • Easy access to desert riding terrain This area has primitive conditions with no horse facilities, so riders must be self-sufficient
Horse regulations
Where You Can Ride Horses and other pack animals are permitted on: • Most dirt roads open to vehicles • Designated multi-use trails • Open desert areas where not otherwise restricted Riding is not allowed on paved roads (except to cross), developed beaches, picnic areas, or other posted closed zones. Cross-Country Riding Cross-country travel is generally permitted in many desert areas, but riders must avoid sensitive vegetation, cultural sites, and restoration zones. Always respect posted closures and boundary signs. Permits No permit is required for day riding with your own horse. Overnight backcountry camping does not require a formal wilderness permit in most areas, but riders must follow dispersed camping regulations and distance requirements from roads and water sources. Grazing & Feed • Grazing is prohibited. • Certified weed-free feed is required. • Feed may not be scattered on the ground. • Pack out unused forage and manure. Water & Desert Considerations Natural water sources are unreliable. Horses may not linger in protected shoreline areas or sensitive riparian zones. Riders must plan to carry adequate water. Group Size & Control Stock must remain under control at all times. Large groups should verify area-specific limits, particularly near developed zones.
Getting here
Use 10 Lakeshore Rd, Boulder City, Nevada as your primary planning reference before you haul in. Best Horse Trailer Staging Areas Railroad Pass / River Mountains Loop Trail (Henderson side) One of the most reliable trailer-friendly staging areas. Why riders use it • Large open parking areas near Railroad Pass • Access to the River Mountains Loop Trail equestrian section • Good maneuvering room for larger rigs • Direct connection to desert riding routes About half of the River Mountains Loop Trail is open to equestrians, running from Railroad Pass toward Las Vegas Bay. 🥈 Callville Wash Road Turnout (Northshore Road area) A very common staging spot for backcountry riders. Features • Large dirt turnout suitable for trailers • Access to washes and desert routes • Used as a starting point for rides toward the Bowl of Fire area Riders often park at the large dirt turnout where Callville Wash Road meets Northshore Road before heading into the backcountry. Government Wash / 8-Mile Area Another primitive but useful staging option. Features • Large dispersed parking areas • Often used for primitive camping and staging • Easy access to desert riding terrain This area has primitive conditions with no horse facilities, so riders must be self-sufficient
Planning your visit
Before you start your adventure, stop by the Lake Mead Visitor Center. Whether you have one hour or one week, rangers and volunteers will help you plan an unforgettable trip. In addition to grabbing maps and brochures, you can get your National Park passport stamp or become a junior ranger. Must Know Before You Ride • This is true desert riding. Heat exposure is intense for much of the year, and shade is limited. Plan early morning or cooler-season rides whenever possible. • Water levels at Lake Mead fluctuate significantly. Shoreline routes and access points may change from season to season. Confirm current conditions before planning shoreline travel. • Natural water sources are unreliable. Do not depend on the lake for safe stock watering in all areas, and never allow horses to linger in protected shoreline or riparian zones. • Cross-country riding is permitted in many open desert areas, but sensitive vegetation, restoration zones, and cultural sites must be avoided. Respect all posted closures. • Grazing is prohibited. Bring certified weed-free feed and pack out all unused forage and manure. • Desert footing varies — from sand to sharp rock and hard-packed dirt. Hoof protection and conditioning matter. • Services are spread out. Fuel, supplies, and cell coverage can be limited depending on your location within the recreation area. Arrive prepared. • Summer temperatures can be extreme and dangerous for both horses and riders. Heat-related illness is a real risk.
Where to stay
Lake Mead Visitor Center is the main visitor-contact point tied to this destination, which is helpful when you want current conditions, maps, and stock-use updates before riding. This entry indicates both guided ride support and horse-camping potential, making Lake Mead National Recreation Area one of the more flexible federal options for riders building a fuller travel plan. For a polished trip plan, pair the ride with lodging, fuel, and resupply planning in or near Boulder City before heading deeper into federal-land access points.
Entrance fees & passes
- $25.00
Entrance - Private Vehicle
Admits a private non-commercial vehicle for 1-7 days.
- $20.00
Entrance - Motorcycle
Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.
- $15.00
Entrance - Per Person
Admits a single individual walking/bicycling for 1-7 days.
- $15.00
Entrance - Non-commercial Groups
Admits vehicles at the per person rate for groups using vehicles for 12 or more people. The $15 cost is per person ages 16+, not to exceed the flat rate paid commercial tours for same type of vehicle.
- $0.00
Entrance - Education/Academic Groups
Admits education/academic groups as long as a fee waiver form is filled out and approved.
- $25.00
Commercial Entrance - Sedan
Admits a sedan of 1-6 people.
- $50.00
Commercial Entrance - Van
Admits a van of 7-16 persons.
- $60.00
Commercial Entrance - Mini-bus
Admits a mini-bus of 16-25 persons.
- $150.00
Commercial Entrance - Motor Coach
Admits a motor coach of 26+ persons.
- $45.00
Annual Entrance - Park
This pass admits the passholder only into Lake Mead National Recreation Area AND NOT other federal lands. The interagency passes allow access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites. Admits passholder and occupants of a single, private non-commercial vehicle. In cases where per person fees are charged, pass is valid for the passholder + 3 adults.1 year from month of purchase. Good through 1 year from month of purchase.
Trails
No trails synced for this park yet.
Campgrounds
Boulder Beach Campground
135 sites
The Boulder Beach Campground is located just minutes from Las Vegas along the Boulder Basin of Lake Mead. It’s open year-round and features large paved sites that can accommodate tents or large RVs, along with tables, fire pits and/or grills. These sites are like an oasis, because of the lush vegetation that shades nearly every campsite. There is a mix of palm trees, oleanders, mature cottonwood trees and native vegetation that also helps provide privacy between sites.
Reserve a siteBoulder Beach Group Campground
5 sites
When you stay at the Boulder Beach Group Campground, you’ll have access to many recreation opportunities. Boulder Beach, Special Events Beach, Canoe/Kayak Beach and PWC Beach are 1-2 miles away. At these locations you can swim, kayak and jet ski. If you prefer to explore the park on land, the River Mountains Loop Trail passes right by the campground. This paved trail is more than 30 miles long and leads to the Historic Railroad Trail.
Reserve a siteCallville Bay Campground
52 sites
When you stay at Callville Bay Campground, you can enjoy the area on land or on water. A nearby shaded picnic area has cool grass, grills, restrooms and panels explaining the history of the area. Across the street, you’ll find the trailhead to the Callville Summit Trail. This 2.7-mile moderate hike requires a short climb, but yields a spectacular view of Lake Mead, Fortification Hill, the Hemenway Valley and the River Mountains.
Reserve a siteCallville Bay RV Park
5 sites
More than 550 miles of pristine shoreline. Soaring red rock cliffs. Countless bays and beaches. Get off the grid for the vacation of a lifetime at Callville Bay Resort & Marina on Lake Mead. Conveniently located within an hour of Las Vegas, Nevada, Callville Bay offers an ideal getaway perfectly complemented by infinite opportunities for adventure and entertainment. Personal watercraft and ski boat rentals are available for a fun-filled day trip, along with multiple houseboat rental options.
Cottonwood Cove Campground
45 sites
Cottonwood Campground is located near Searchlight, Nevada, along Lake Mohave. It’s open year-round and features paved sites that can accommodate tents or RVs, along with tables, fire pits and/or grills. Restrooms and water spigots are located throughout the campsite.
Reserve a siteCottonwood Cove RV Park
72 sites
Cottonwood Cove Resort & Marina at Lake Mohave is a premier destination for houseboat rentals, watercraft rentals, camping and includes a spacious rv park. We are conveniently located on the Colorado River and just a short drive from Laughlin, Nevada. Our resort and marina have lakeside accommodations, a full-service rv park, nearby campground facilities and a variety of boat rentals. Visit us at Lake Mohave and experience the getaway of a lifetime.
Echo Bay Campground
52 sites
Our Echo Bay Park is a fisherman’s and boater’s paradise. Located on the north end of Lake Mead, this secluded park offers a variety of outdoor activities. Close to the “must-see” wonder of the Valley of Fire State Park and the ruins of the historic town of St. Thomas, visitors have an array of hiking and sightseeing opportunities. The large RV sites provide room for your boat, and the free on-site launch ramp are ideal for boaters.
Echo Bay RV Park
55 sites
Echo Bay Park is a fisherman’s and boater’s paradise. Located on the north end of Lake Mead, this secluded park offers a variety of outdoor activities. Close to the “must-see” wonder of the Valley of Fire State Park and the ruins of the historic town of St. Thomas, visitors have an array of hiking and sightseeing opportunities. The large RV sites provide room for your boat, and the free on-site launch ramp are ideal for boaters.
Katherine Landing Campground
173 sites
With views of the lake and within walking distance of the marina, swim beach, dining and retail store, campsites at Katherine Landing feature a wide array of amenities including concrete picnic tables, fire rings with cooking grills, modern restrooms, showers, with laundry facilities close by. Wi-fi access through Access Parks is available. Campsites at Katherine Landing offer guests a scenic, affordable basecamp for adventures on and around beautiful Lake Mohave.
Katherine Landing RV Park
24 sites
The Katherine Landing RV campsites come complete with water, sewer and electrical hook-ups. All spaces have the option of household current, 30 amp, or 50 amp power. Laundry, restroom and shower facilities are available on site. All spaces are back-in with the largest space accommodating a 40′ RV. For a Lake Mohave camping adventure in the comfort of your own rig, the RV campsites at Katherine Landing offer all the connections you need!
Lake Mead RV Village
115 sites
Lake Mead's Boulder Beach area offers many things to see and do. Whether you’d rather go sightseeing, tour Hoover Dam, go shopping, visit historic Boulder City or try your luck in Las Vegas, Lake Mead RV Village at Boulder Beach is conveniently located to a variety of attractions. There’s a lot going on around Lake Mead RV Village, so set up camp and discover this diverse and historically significant area, while enjoying your stay on the shores of Lake Mead.
Reserve a siteLas Vegas Bay Campground
85 sites
Las Vegas Bay Campground is located just minutes from Las Vegas on the western edge of the park and has lush vegetation that shades nearly every campsite. There is a mix of palm trees, oleanders, mature cottonwood trees and native vegetation that also helps provide privacy between sites. Wildlife in the area includes many species of birds and lizards along with antelope squirrels and the occasional coyote.
Temple Bar Campground
71 sites
Enjoy the Temple Bar area by land or water. Hike through the desert along the Temple View Trail to observe the crystal blue waters of Lake Mead and the natural temple that changes colors throughout the day. Launch your own boat or rent one from the marina. You can also dine at the seasonal cafe, or grab a variety of snacks, drinks and charcoal from the store.
Temple Bar RV Park
10 sites
Just 75 miles away from Las Vegas, Temple Bar Marina is located in the Temple Basin on the Arizona side of eastern Lake Mead. It’s the closest marina for Arizonans who want to get away from the more populated Boulder Basin area of Lake Mead. The RV Park at Temple Bar Marina is a perfect location for enjoying the lake and all its recreational activities.
Willow Beach Campground
9 sites
Willow Beach Campground offers 9 tent campground sites and is located just 30 minutes from Boulder City and 45 minutes from the Las Vegas strip. With its unique location, the park offers scenic views of the Colorado River, Black Canyon, as well as the mountain and desert landscapes in the distance. Enjoy a variety of water activities on Lake Mead and Lake Mohave, hike on the many trails in the recreation area, tour the Hoover Dam, or head to Las Vegas for some nightlife entertainment.
Willow Beach RV Park
28 sites
Willow Beach RV Park is your full-service RV Park and tent campground located just 30 minutes from Boulder City and 45 minutes from the Las Vegas strip. With its unique location, the park offers scenic views of the Colorado River, Black Canyon, as well as the mountain and desert landscapes in the distance. Enjoy a variety of water activities on Lake Mead and Lake Mohave, hike on the many trails in the recreation area, tour the Hoover Dam, or head to Las Vegas for some nightlife entertainment.
Points of interest
33 Hole Scenic Overlook
POIEnjoy a picnic with panoramic views of the Las Vegas Bay and the Black Mesa. Here you will find the trailhead for the Owl Canyon, a 2.2 miles moderate hike where burrowing owls are known to occasionally roost. This overlook also provides hiking access to the Cliffs View Point.
Black Canyon Wilderness
POIThe power of water and time is nowhere more clearly articulated than on the walls, cliffs and buttresses that comprise the Black Canyon Wilderness.
Boulder Beach
POIBoulder Harbor Launch Ramp
POIDue to low water conditions at Lake Mead, the Boulder Harbor Boat Launch Ramp is closed.
Callville Bay Launch Ramp
POIAdventure awaits at Callville Bay. Bring your own watercraft, or rent personal watercraft, ski boats, pontoons and even houseboats. End the day with dinner at the lounge and sleep under the stars at the Callville Campground or RV park.
Cottonwood Cove
POICottonwood Cove Launch Ramp
POIAt Cottonwood Cove, you can launch your own boat, or rent one, or just enjoy a picnic on one of the plentiful beaches.
Echo Bay Launch Ramp
POIEcho Bay is a fisherman's paradise. From Echo Bay, you can gas up, grab some snacks on land and hit the open waters of Lake Mead along the peaceful Overton Arm where striped bass and largemouth bass are waiting for you.
Hemenway Harbor Launch Ramp
POISet sail in the Boulder Basin of Lake Mead from Hemenway Harbor. Boating services include a launch ramp, fuel sales (marine and auto) along with a variety of boat and equipment rental options to include sport boats, pontoon boats, personal watercraft, paddlecraft and water sport equipment. Boat slip rentals are also available.
Katherine Landing Launch Ramp
POIThis oasis located just minutes from Bullhead City, Arizona, and Laughlin, Nevada, offers generous sunshine, sparkling blue water and white sandy beaches. Spend the day picnicking, hiking or taking a boat out onto Lake Mohave. Extend your stay a few days by staying at our campground or lodge. Boat and other equipment rentals are available on site.
Lake Mead Marina
POIWith just under 1500 slips plus dry storage spaces, two marina stores, two restaurants, marine service and repair facilities, fuel, rentals and storage.
Lakeview Scenic Overlook
POIStop by this scenic overlook on your way to the Hoover Dam for some panoramic views of the Boulder Basin. Looking northwest you can see the Hemenway Harbor, one of the tunnels of the Hoover Historic Railroad and power lines from Hoover Dam. Looking northeast, you can see the Rock, Boulder and Saddle Islands and as far as the Callville Mesa, Muddy Mountains and Black Mountains.
Las Vegas Bay Overlook
POIThis overlook provides great views of the Las Vegas Bay. Enjoy views of the Las Vegas Wash, which channels rain and treated water from the Las Vegas Valley into Lake Mead. This wash also serves as a wetland habitat within the Mojave Desert for the great blue heron and other wildlife.
Las Vegas Boat Harbor
POIWith just under 1500 slips, the marina can accommodate boats up to 75’ in length. Lake Mead has something to offer everyone – Boating, Skiing, Fishing, Tubing, Relaxing, Swimming, Exploring and Much More. Las Vegas Boat Harbor is a great place to bring the family; have lunch, feed the fish, and people watch. Looking for a little more excitement, rent a boat or waverunner and go exploring!
Longview Scenic Overlook
POILongview Scenic Overlook
Pearce Ferry Scenic Overlook
POIPearce Ferry Scenic Overlook
South Cove
POISouth Cove Launch Ramp
POIOpen via 0.5 mile gravel road off the concrete launch ramp. The concrete launch ramp itself is out of the water due to currently low lake levels.
Sunset View Scenic Overlook
POIAptly named, this overlook is the perfect spot to enjoy the stunning sunsets and sunrises at Lake Mead. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Boulder Basin, the Muddy Mountains and the Callville Mesa.
Temple Bar
POITemple Bar Launch Ramp
POIThis is where boaters go when they want to getaway from the city and relax out on the blue waters of Lake Mead surrounded by colorful desert landscapes. You can launch your own boat or rent a boat or kayak by the hour, day or week and spend a few nights at the cabins, motel or campgrounds.
Willow Beach
POIWillow Beach Harbor Marina
POIHead out for a trip to Willow Beach Marina & Campground for fun on the water! Located in the Black Canyon region of the Colorado River, Willow Beach has 235 miles of shoreline to explore with some of the most unique scenery and wildlife to see.
Willow Beach Launch Ramp
POIWillow Beach Launch Ramp allows for launching and retrieval of vessel and paddle craft. This access point gives boaters and paddlers an incredible opportunity to experience this portion of the Colorado River.
Willow Beach Scenic Overlook
POI
Things to do
Bike the Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail
The Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail features incredible vistas of Lake Mead and Boulder Basin and five tunnels – each approximately 25 feet wide.
Duration: 1-4 Hours
Bike the River Mountains Loop Trail
Bicyclists are welcome to ride at Lake Mead National Recreation Area on park roads and on routes designated for bicycle use. Approved backcountry roads are designated routes and are marked with a yellow arrow sign with a number on it.
Duration: 4-8 Hours
Black Canyon National Water Trail
In 2014, the Secretary of Interior designated this portion of the Colorado River as a National Water Trail, making it the first in the Southwest and the first to flow through a desert. Paddlers and boaters alike come to the Black Canyon to enjoy serenity and the awe-inspiring geologic formations.
Duration: 4-8 Hours
Drive along Northshore Road
If Lakeshore Road is Lake Mead’s “Main Street”, Northshore Road is its scenic route. Stretching for almost fifty miles, Northshore Road winds its way from modern times next to housing developments through historic geologic periods where the landscape changed from a flat, open plain on the edge of a continent to the rich geologic formations we see today. Northshore Road really is a trip through time.
Hike the Arizona Hot Springs Trail
Arizona Hot Spring trail is strenuous and can be combined to make a loop going down a 20-foot ladder to the White Rock Canyon trail. With a 750-foot elevation change and some steep scrambling, this hike is considered very strenuous.
Duration: 4-8 Hours
Hike the Bluffs Trail
Bluffs Trail overlooks the Las Vegas Bay and Las Vegas Wash, where visitors can see a stark contrast in vegetation between wet and dry areas.
Duration: 1-4 Hours
Hike the Callville Summit Trail
From the summit, take in stunning views looking over Callville Bay and beautiful blue Lake Mead.
Duration: 1-4 Hours
Hike the Goldstrike Canyon Trail
This strenuous hike leads through a scenic canyon to natural hot springs and offers views of the Colorado River and Hoover Dam.
Duration: 4-8 Hours
Hike the Historic Railroad Trail
The Historic Railroad Trail features incredible vistas of Lake Mead and Boulder Basin and five tunnels – each approximately 25 feet wide.
Duration: 1-4 Hours
Hike the Lake View Trail
Lakeview hiking trail allows visitors to explore the beautiful mountainous landscape and the desert flora and fauna including creosote, brittle bush.
Duration: 1-4 Hours
Hike the Liberty Bell Arch Trail
While there is no river access on this trail, hikers are rewarded throughout their adventure with geological highlights, remnants of a historic magnesium mine going back to the days of WWII, and a fantastic panoramic view overlooking the Colorado River from 1000 ft. up.
Duration: 4-8 Hours
Hike the Lone Palm Trail
This strenuous hike leads through a scenic canyon to natural hot springs and offers views of the Colorado River at the end of the trail.
Duration: 4-8 Hours
Hike the Northshore Summit Trail
A perfect place to take in the desert in all its vastness and striking colors.
Duration: 1-4 Hours
Hike the Owl Canyon Trail
Owl Canyon Trail narrows and deepens into a slot canyon with 100-foot vertical walls in the most confined section.
Duration: 1-4 Hours
Hike the Redstone Trail
The fiery eroded formations on this trail were once part of a vast desert landscape.
Duration: 1-4 Hours
Hike the River Mountains Loop Trail
The River Mountains Loop Trail is a non-motorized, paved trail provides visitors with an extensive trail loop offering scenic views, plentiful wildlife, and the vast beauty only the Mojave Desert can offer.
Duration: 4-8 Hours
Hike the St. Thomas Trail
Today, remnants of the town are now visible thanks to the lowering water levels of Lake Mead.
Duration: 1-4 Hours
Hike the Wetlands Trail
The Wetlands Trail follows a dry dirt trail down to the flowing Las Vegas Wash, where water from the Las Vegas Valley dispenses into Lake Mead and shapes the landscape through erosion.
Duration: 1-4 Hours
Hike the White Rock Canyon Trail
Follow this meandering canyon down as it compresses and loosens until it finally opens to reveal the mighty Colorado River.
Duration: 4-8 Hours
Picnic at 33 Hole Overlook
Enjoy a picnic with panoramic views of the Las Vegas Bay and the Black Mesa. 33 Hole Overlook Picnic area features 9 picnic tables, 9 grills, and restrooms. This location does not have drinking water.
Picnic at Blue Point Spring
Blue Point Spring picnic area features 1 picnic table with mountainous landscape views. There are no restrooms, drinking water, or grills.
Picnic at Boulder Beach
Enjoy a picnic while looking out at Boulder Basin and Fortification Hill. Boulder Beach Picnic Area features 54 picnic tables, 18 grills, restrooms and drinking water.
Picnic at Callville Bay
Callville Bay picnic area features 8 picnic tables, 8 grills, restrooms, and drinking water.
Picnic at Cottonwood Cove
Cottonwood Cove picnic area features 14 picnic tables, 10 grills, restrooms, and drinking water.
Picnic at Echo Bay
Echo Bay picnic area features 2 picnic tables and restrooms. There are no grills or drinking water at this location.
Picnic at Katherine Landing
Katherine Landing picnic area features 10 picnic tables, 6 grills, and restrooms. This location does not have drinking water.
Picnic at Las Vegas Bay
Las Vegas Bay picnic area features 18 picnic tables, 8 grills, restrooms, and drinking water.
Picnic at Longview Overlook
Longview Picnic Area is a great spot to stop and have a picnic at along Lakeshore Road. This picnic area features 3 picnic tables, 3 grills, and restrooms. This location does not have drinking water.
Picnic at Princess Cove
Princess Cove picnic area features 6 picnic tables and 6 grills. This location does not have restrooms or drinking water.
Picnic at Redstone
Redstone Picnic Area is nestled in the Pinto Valley Wilderness, along Northshore Road. Redstone picnic area features 3 picnic tables, 3 grills, and restrooms. This location does not have drinking water.
Picnic at Rogers Spring
Rogers Spring picnic area features 4 picnic tables, 4 grills, and restrooms. This location does not have drinking water.
Picnic at South Arizona Telepone Cove
South Arizona Telephone Cove picnic area features 6 picnic tables. This location does not have grills, restrooms, or drinking water.
Picnic at Temple Bar
Temple Bar picnic area features 10 picnic tables, 6 grills, and restrooms. This location does not have drinking water.
Picnic at Willow Beach
Willow Beach picnic area features 9 picnic tables, 5 grills, restrooms, and drinking water.
Visitor centers
Lake Mead Headquarters Information Kiosk
An information kiosk is located inside Lake Mead's Headquarters building.
Get directionsLake Mead Visitor Center
Before you start your adventure, stop by the Lake Mead Visitor Center. Whether you have one hour or one week, rangers and volunteers will help you plan an unforgettable trip. In addition to grabbing maps and brochures, you can get your National Park passport stamp or become a junior ranger. The Western National Parks Association operates the park store from within the center. It's stocked with books about the park and the region, Native American arts, jewelry and crafts, posters, outerwear and more.
Get directions
Webcams
Hemenway Harbor
Currently unavailable.
Hours of operation
All Park Hours
Lake Mead National Recreation Area is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please note that while the majority of the park is accessible at all hours, our Visitor Center operates on a specific schedule. Be sure to plan your visit accordingly, as the Visitor Center is open during designated hours to provide you with valuable information, maps, and assistance from our knowledgeable staff.
Mon
All Day
Tue
All Day
Wed
All Day
Thu
All Day
Fri
All Day
Sat
All Day
Sun
All Day
Activities
Weather
Spring (April, May and June): Daytime highs 80 °F to 98 °F. Nighttime lows 50 °F to 66 °F Summer* (July, August and September): Daytime highs 89 °F to 103 °F (It can get up to 117 °F.) Fall (October, November and December): Daytime highs 59 °F to 83 °F. Nighttime lows 32 °F to 50 °F. Winter (January, February and March) Daytime highs 57 °F to 69 °F. Nighttime lows 30 °F to 40 °F. *Summer can be a dangerous time due to excessive heat. Some trails are closed for public safety.
Contact
Photos
Stay near this park
No horse-friendly stays listed near Lake Mead National Recreation Area yet. Know a great barn or property? Help fellow riders by listing it.
List your propertyDirections
By car you can drive to one of the park's many entrances. The six main entrances to Lake Mead are as follows: Northshore, Lake Mead Boulevard, Lake Mead Parkway, and Boulder, Temple Bar, and Meadview. For the southern sections of the park, near Lake Mohave, there are entrance stations at Willow Beach, Katherine Landing and Cottonwood Cove.
Source: nps.gov