Lake Mead National Recreation Area (NRA) offers a wealth of things to do and places to go year-round.  The lakes cater to boaters, swimmers, sunbathers, and fishermen while its desert rewards hikers, wildlife photographers, and roadside sightseers.  Begin your visit at the Lake Mead Visitor Center, four miles northeast of Boulder City, NV, at U.S. 93 and Lakeshore Scenic Drive. You can also call (702) 293-8990 or visit our web site at www.nps.gov/lame. 

Fire Restrictions

An extreme fire danger exists in the park of abundant grass and brush from above average winter/spring rains. Wood and charcoal fires are prohibited in the park until fall.  This includes campgrounds, picnic areas, and at the shoreline.  Liquid propane gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel-powered portable stoves ARE allowed.

Swimming

Both desert lakes are clear, clean, and ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.   Swimmers should wear “swim shoes” to protect their feet on the rocky shoreline.  The best seasons for swimming are spring, summer and fall when temperatures in Lake Mead and much of Lake Mohave average 78°F.

Distances to islands, buoys, and across coves are easily underestimated. Don’t overestimate your abilities. Air mattresses and other inflatables can blow away; leaving you stranded far from shore.  Never rely on an inflatable device as a life preserver.   Wear life jackets at all times.

There are no lifeguards at Lake Mead NRA. Never Swim Alone.

Hot Springs

A microscopic amoeba, Naegleria fowleri, which can live in hot springs, can cause a rare infection and sometimes death. Do not dive or submerse your head in warm springs or associated streams.

Boating

Boaters can reach many scenic areas that are inaccessible to those traveling by car. Sandy beaches where you can picnic or camp border numerous secluded coves around the lake. If you plan on taking a trip, let a friend, family member know where you are going and when you plan to return. Also leave a description of your boat, boat trailer, and vehicle.

Water levels in Lakes Mead and Mohave change throughout the year. Always approach the shore with caution and watch for shallows and submerged debris.

All boaters must have required safety equipment on board their vessel.  In Nevada there is mandatory boater education required for all persons born on or after January 1, 1983.  You must have proof of certification with you at the lake.  You must be 14 to operate a personal watercraft on the Nevada side of the park and 12 to operate a personal watercraft in Arizona.

Before going out on the water check weather forecasts and look for storm warning flags at marinas.  Call (702) 736-3854 or monitor marine radio channel 16 for up-to-date National Weather Service forecasts. If a storm breaks while you are out, seek shelter in a protected cove immediately and wait until the storm passes. High winds can spring up quickly, creating waves as high as six feet.

Six concession-operated marinas along Lake Mead and three on Lake Mohave offer a full range of boating services and supplies year-round. Launching ramps and parking areas are located at each area. Parking is limited to seven days per stay.  Go to www.funonthelake.com for more information about vessel rentals or other marina information.

Boat tours are operated by concessionaires. On Lake Mead tours on a paddle-wheel vessel depart daily from Lake Mead Cruises Ferry landing, call (702) 293.6180.   On Lake Mohave, one-day raft trips are offered through the slow-moving waters of Black Canyon from Hoover Dam to Willow Beach, call 702.294.1414 to make a reservation.

Fishing

The lakes offer some of the best year-round sport fishing in the country.  

Hiking

Always carry water. One gallon per day per person is advised. Long cross-country hikes are discouraged from June through September when the desert heats up like a furnace.

Pets

Pets are not allowed on some beaches, public eating places or in other public buildings. They must always be leashed. Never leave a pet in a car, temperatures inside can climb to 160°F.

Scenic Drives

Several paved roads wind through the dramatic desert scenery of Lake Mead NRA country.  Unpaved backcountry roads penetrate more remote regions of the park. Pick up our backcountry road maps from the Alan Bible Visitor Center, any ranger station, or download off of our website at www.nps.gov/lame/maps.html.  Check on road conditions before traveling these routes. Bring extra water for you and your vehicle and tools for emergency repairs.  Driving off designated roads is prohibited. Drive only on paved roads or on unpaved roads that are marked with yellow arrows.

Information Provided by the National Park Service