Dispersed camping options near Boulder City provide access to Lake Mead National Recreation Area at elevations ranging from 500 to 1,500 feet. The area experiences extreme temperature variations with summer highs frequently exceeding 110°F and winter overnight lows occasionally dropping below freezing. Wind conditions can be severe, particularly during spring months when gusts exceeding 40 mph frequently occur across exposed campsites.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Access prime single-track from Canyon Trail RV Park with trails directly behind the property. "We really enjoyed the MTB trails directly behind the RV park. Short walk to shopping. The park was very clean and the people super nice," notes Becky A. The trails offer technical terrain suitable for experienced riders.
Colorado River kayaking: Launch from Willow Beach Marina for paddle access to backcountry campsites. "We kayak in to set up camp for the night. There is a rustic toilet you can use, no water available other than the river. Our camp site was away from the masses, we took our camping gear further away from the crowded main camping area," reports Cresta P. at Arizona Hot Springs.
Stargazing: Clear desert skies offer excellent celestial viewing opportunities during winter months. "We spent hours in the springs with other hikers until well into the evening hours. The glow of candles provided by one hiker created an ambiance and after the glow faded the darkest most star filled night skies could be seen," describes Crystal C.
What campers like
Wild burro encounters: Desert burros frequently visit campsites at Kingman Wash. "I spent 3 days and nights here at Kingman Wash in August and was nude the entire time. The burrows were a very welcome plus that added to the enjoyment of the trip," shares NudistGirl M. These free-roaming animals are descendants from mining-era pack animals.
Waterfront access: Sites positioned along Lake Mead shorelines offer direct water entry. "We took our camper van down to the water. About 3 miles on the dirt road. Some spots are bumpy but we made it without ever getting stuck. Beautiful view. Worth it," writes Brendan M. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting campsite availability.
Hot spring pools: Naturally heated pools provide therapeutic soaking opportunities. "The spring discharges highly mineralized water at a rate of about 30 gallons per minute and a temperature of about 111 degrees Fahrenheit. The spring issues from fractures in Miocene-age volcanic rocks near the intersection of two faults," explains Emmanuel L. about Arizona Hot Springs.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require navigating rough access roads. "This campsite is amazing! The 3 mile off road was a little intimidating with my 20ft camper but we made it! So worth it!" states Peaches E. about Kingman Wash. High clearance vehicles are recommended for most off-highway locations.
Water availability: Most dispersed camping areas lack drinking water. At Boulder Beach Campground, "The campground had flush toilets, sinks, and potable water," reports Ashlee L. Dog-friendly campgrounds near Boulder City typically require carrying water for pets.
Weather precautions: Temperature extremes affect camping comfort throughout the year. "Weather wise be prepared for the heat. It was 101°F when we arrived, 80° at night. Bring lots of water to drink!" advises Peaches E. Winter overnight temperatures can drop below freezing.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Pet-friendly areas often require additional precautions. "Pack plenty of water!! There are NO places to collect potable water so you will want to make sure to have enough for the hike in and out as well as the night otherwise carry a lifestraw with you to filter the water from the river," cautions Crystal C.
Pool facilities: Several RV parks maintain swimming pools for family use. At Las Vegas KOA Journey at Sam's Town, "We booked this last minute and had a great time at the park. The pool was closed, but they gave us access to the Sam's Town hotel pool, which we did not make time to use. They welcomed our kiddos when booking, unlike another local RV venue," reports Jason M.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing provides learning experiences for children. "As a side note - there are wild burros in the area left over from mining many years ago - the miners 'let them go' and they thrived in the area! We had two that visited us (please don't feed them!) and were a delightful change of wildlife from the bears and deer we are used to back home," shares Amy G.
Tips from RVers
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly across camping areas. At Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, "No cellular service until you get a mile closer to the highway, so be prepared to go off line," warns Twindaddy. Most established RV parks offer WiFi connections.
Site selection strategy: Arrive early to secure level spots at popular locations. "Close to the water you may be on a slope if you are not sleeping in a van or RV. But up higher (we could see the water, but were up the hill) it was flat for a tent. No issues," advises Amy G. regarding Kingman Wash.
Security considerations: Gated facilities offer additional protection. "Las Vegas RV Resort is gated with a person at the gate 24/7. The restrooms were very clean and the swimming pool was not crowded at all," notes Andrew W. about Las Vegas RV Resort.
