Equestrian camping near Boulder City, Nevada centers primarily on dispersed locations rather than developed facilities with dedicated horse amenities. The area sits at approximately 2,500 feet elevation and experiences desert conditions with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F. Winter camping provides more moderate temperatures in the 60-70°F range during daylight hours, dropping significantly at night.
What to Do
Explore desert trails: Eight Mile Dispersed Camping near Government Wash offers access to open desert terrain suitable for day rides. "We love camping at Las Vegas Bay campground at Lake Mead. The campground is very close to the wash that comes from Lake Las Vegas. Lots of wildlife!!" notes Bonnie C., highlighting the natural features riders can explore.
Visit Lake Mead shorelines: When bringing horses to the Las Vegas Bay Campground, you can access scenic lake views. "A short walk to the bathroom (hundred yards maybe?) but they were clean and the toilets were the flush kind, not pit kind. Drinking water was available too," explains Amy G., describing amenities that benefit both riders and horses requiring water access.
Enjoy night astronomy: The clear desert skies provide exceptional stargazing opportunities after riding. "Nice campsite for tents or RVs. Flushing toilets and running water in the bathroom was nice. Beautiful sunset views, and the hills block all signs of civilization. You feel like you are in the middle of nowhere even though you are 20 minutes from Vegas," writes Trevor J. about Las Vegas Bay Campground.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: At Las Vegas Bay Campground, natural vegetation creates separation. "We had site 23 - very shaded and 'green' - site 24 (not ours) was very open to the desert... Lot of palms and oleander that gave a lot of privacy," notes Amy G., describing features that help contain horses away from other campers.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Red Rock Canyon provides chances to observe desert creatures. "If you're patient enough and have a quick eye, you can spot wildlife. We were fortunate enough to see a Kit Fox running around," reports John W., highlighting encounters riders might have on trail rides.
Water access points: For equestrians needing to water their horses, locations near shorelines are valuable. "Quail are everywhere. Close to the water and it's peacefully quiet," notes Robin P. about Las Vegas Bay Campground, pointing out both wildlife and water proximity that benefits equestrian campers.
What You Should Know
Challenging road conditions: The approach to dispersed camping areas can be difficult with horse trailers. "We saw some awesome sunsets here, but I wouldn't say this spot had anything unique about it. The road is rough, you definitely cannot camp here in the rain. It's a wash...so that would get dangerous," warns Jamie H. about Eight Mile Dispersed Camping.
Limited dedicated equestrian facilities: No developed horse-specific amenities exist in the immediate Boulder City area. "The best parts of this campground is that there is cell service, restrooms, and an RV dump station. It's a very dry and sad campground, with no view of the lake as it has receded too far with the low lake levels," notes Colette K. about Las Vegas Bay.
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures make horse camping difficult without shade. "Temps were at 102 during the day and 70s at night," reports SpentBrassOffroad B. about Las Vegas Bay Campground, highlighting temperature extremes that affect equestrian camping comfort and horse care.
Tips for Camping with Families
Prepare for desert exposure: Searchlight BLM offers space but limited amenities. "This is a good spot if you just need to stop for the night. It's a great alternative to a truck stop or a Walmart because a) apparently there's an ordinance and Vegas Walmarts don't allow overnight parking and b) it's so quiet here / no idling trucks all night," advises Laura M.
Consider developed options for amenities: Facilities like bathrooms and showers make horse camping with children easier. "The campground is very close to the wash that comes from Lake Las Vegas. Lots of wildlife!! Sites are small. RVs larger than 31 ft will have a hard time fitting. This is dry camp only. No hookups or dump station. Portable water is available. Sites are well developed," Bonnie C. explains about Las Vegas Bay.
Plan for limited shade: Bringing portable shelter for both horses and humans is essential. "Site was in the middle of a turn around, so we were in the 'donut center' so to speak and it was quiet, shaded and beautiful. Lot of palms and oleander that gave a lot of privacy," Amy G. details about Las Vegas Bay Campground.
Tips from RVers
Trailer parking challenges: Katherine Landing Campground offers more space for larger rigs with horses. "Really a nice campground, nice big spots, tables and a fire pit as well as a laundry room and did I mention clean bathrooms!!! Oleander trees space out each camp spot which give you all the privacy anyone could need," says Brittney C.
Water management: All equestrian campers must bring adequate water supplies. "Clean bathrooms. Showers and laundry on site. Water available. Great T-mobile service, wifi available. If you are looking for a place to stay the night or a few days, this is recommended," mentions Honeymooners O. about Katherine Landing.
Consider campground layout: Finding sites that accommodate both RVs and horse trailers requires planning. "My trailer is a 31 ft tt somewhat windy but trees break up the wind. 24 a night, 12 with senior access. Decent size sites, clean bathroom showers," notes G.A. about Katherine Landing Campground.
