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Lake Mead National Recreation Area

warningPark Closure4 warnings calendar_monthMar–May, Sep–Novbest time schedule3 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_number~$15entry
Lake Mead National Recreation AreaYour own route Plan a trip here →
Park Closure Government Wash and 8.0 Mile Road Seasonal Closure May 15 – September 30

The Government Wash campground and 8.0 Mile Road 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 1s Details open_in_new

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 s Details open_in_new

Caution 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. Pleas Details open_in_new

Caution 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

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a vast expanse of land featuring two significant lakes, Lake Mead and Lake Mohave. These reservoirs were formed by the Hoover and Davis Dams, which were completed in the 1930s and 1950s respectively. The area attracts visitors for its outdoor activities, including kayaking, hiking, and camping, as well as its mild winter climate, making it a popular escape from colder regions.

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The recreation area is also a place of reflection, as it showcases the engineering feats of the Hoover and Davis Dams. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and partake in various recreational activities, while also acknowledging the historical significance of the site.

In pictures

picnic area at Redstone
picnic area at Redstone

Things to do

Picnic at Katherine Landing
Winter/Spring

Katherine Landing picnic area features 10 picnic tables, 6 grills, and restrooms. This location does not have...

Picnic at South Arizona Telepone Cove
Winter/Spring

South Arizona Telephone Cove picnic area features 6 picnic tables. This location does not have grills, restroo...

Picnic at Rogers Spring
Winter/Spring

Rogers Spring picnic area features 4 picnic tables, 4 grills, and restrooms. This location does not have drink...

Bike the River Mountains Loop Trail
4-8 Hours · Winter/Spring

Bicyclists are welcome to ride at Lake Mead National Recreation Area on park roads and on routes designated fo...

Hike the Lone Palm Trail
4-8 Hours · Winter/Spring

This strenuous hike leads through a scenic canyon to natural hot springs and offers views of the Colorado Rive...

Hike the White Rock Canyon Trail
4-8 Hours · Winter/Spring

Follow this meandering canyon down as it compresses and loosens until it finally opens to reveal the mighty Co...

Hike the Goldstrike Canyon Trail
4-8 Hours · Winter/Spring

This strenuous hike leads through a scenic canyon to natural hot springs and offers views of the Colorado Rive...

Hike the Arizona Hot Springs Trail
4-8 Hours · Winter/Spring

Arizona Hot Spring trail is strenuous and can be combined to make a loop going down a 20-foot ladder to the Wh...

Hike the Liberty Bell Arch Trail
4-8 Hours · Winter/Spring

While there is no river access on this trail, hikers are rewarded throughout their adventure with geological h...

Hike the Lake View Trail
1-4 Hours · Winter/Spring

Lakeview hiking trail allows visitors to explore the beautiful mountainous landscape and the desert flora and...

Hike the Callville Summit Trail
1-4 Hours · Winter/Spring

From the summit, take in stunning views looking over Callville Bay and beautiful blue Lake Mead.

Drive along Northshore Road
Winter/Spring

If Lakeshore Road is Lake Mead’s “Main Street”, Northshore Road is its scenic route. Stretching for almost fif...

Practical

At a glance

Established
1936
Open
Daily open 24 hours
Price
Per Person $15, Non-commercial Groups $15, Motorcycle $20
Accessibility
wheelchair accessible in certain areas
Address
Lake Mead Visitor Center, Boulder City, NV 89005
Opening hours
Daily open 24 hours
Phone
7022938990
Price
~$15
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Expect busy periods during weekends and holidays.
Entry fees may apply for certain areas, check ahead.
Bring plenty of water and sun protection, especially in summer.
Camping spots can fill quickly, so reserve in advance.

Photo: NPS Photo/Andrew Cattoir