RV sites near Lake Mead National Recreation Area range from basic shoreline camping to full-service resorts. The region features desert terrain with elevations between 500 and 1,500 feet and limited natural shade. Water levels have declined significantly in recent years, affecting shoreline access points and extending the distance from lakefront sites to the actual water's edge.
What to Do
Boating and fishing opportunities: Launch from Willow Beach Campground and RV Park where "the water is so clear you can see the fish underneath as you paddle out," according to Jessica W., who visits Lake Mojave at Cottonwood Cove regularly.
Hiking trails: Access trail systems directly from Canyon Trail RV Park in Boulder City. "We came in December and even with the cold weather we really enjoyed the MTB trails directly behind the RV park," reports Becky A., who appreciated the short walk to shopping.
Swimming in designated areas: Use the steel canopy structures at Cottonwood Cove where Michael K. noted, "The beach had steel canopy structures and charcoal grills so you can spend your days grilling on the beach after you go fishing in the morning."
Hoover Dam tours: Visit from Boulder Beach Campground, where Hollie G. mentioned, "Stayed here after flying into Las Vegas. Sites were wide open... Very clean sites and bathrooms."
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: At Willow Beach Campground and RV Park, Steve C. found "the facilities are impeccably clean. Camp sites are spacious, level and really well maintained."
Swimming options: Beyond the lake, RV parks like Las Vegas RV Resort offer additional amenities. "The pool & hot tub are open year round," notes Bill B., explaining why many travelers convert to longer stays.
Protection from elements: Some parks offer concrete pads that provide stability in the desert environment. "All front spots are on concrete pads, so no guessing if your rig is balanced," according to one camper at Lake Mead RV Village.
Pet-friendly options: Multiple dog areas are available at select facilities. Timothy T. appreciated Las Vegas RV Resort's "multiple dog areas, including a large, multi-run area."
What You Should Know
Water level fluctuations: Lake Mead's receding shoreline affects waterfront camping. Michael C. at Lake Mead RV Village noted: "We scored a 'lakefront' spot. These are closest to the lake, but when we visited, lake mead was very low, so the shoreline was about 1/4 mile away."
Pet restrictions vary significantly: At Cottonwood Cove, Larry L. advised: "Dogs not allowed waterside but a nice cove (6 Mile Cove) is just a short drive and dogs allowed there."
Wi-Fi connectivity: Most campgrounds offer limited Wi-Fi access. At Willow Beach, Steve C. found "no cell service but they do have medium quality WiFi."
Temperature extremes: Summer temps regularly exceed 100°F, making some campgrounds uncomfortable. Raf A. noted at Lake Mead RV Village: "Got lucky as we didn't have immediate neighbors during our stay (closest one was 4 sites down) perhaps the 120° weather is a deterrent for some folks."
Tips for Camping with Families
Consider age-appropriate facilities: Chris H. at Lake Mead RV Village cautioned: "It was only 7 minutes to the hover dam and 5 minutes into Boulder City. The only down side was it wasn't made with kids in mind. It's more of a retirement area. Make sure to have plans or stuff for the kids to do."
Off-season family camping: Boulder Beach Campground offers family-friendly sites with shade trees when temperatures are more moderate. "Pros: Boulder Beach was a reasonably priced and decently quiet campground with a wonderful view of Lake Mead. Most if not all of the sites had shade trees, which was also a plus," according to Ashlee L.
Water recreation planning: Specific swimming areas require advance planning. At Cottonwood Cove, Alicia R. noted: "Nice because again the views are amazing and it has actual sand but it was too crowded. I wish people respected our land."
Educational opportunities: The Hoover Dam provides learning experiences. Jenny W. said: "One note is that you will have to also pay the park fee before entering the RV park. It isn't much ($25 for a 7 day pass) but it was just something I wasn't aware of before we arrived."
Tips from RVers
Water hose requirements: At Lake Mead RV Village, MickandKarla W. reported: "The utilities were spaced a bit far from the site and towards the back so I needed about 22' of sewer hose and 25' of electric and water hose."
Resort amenities: Oasis Las Vegas RV Resort offers extensive facilities outside park boundaries. Matt I. appreciated that it provided "large sites with full hookups and concrete pads for easy level setup" and "separate swimming pool area for adults and kids which is open late for some night swimming."
Security considerations: Many RV parks near Lake Mead feature 24-hour security. Andrew W. noted at Las Vegas RV Resort: "The 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."
Transportation planning: Allow extra time when driving to the Strip. Andrew W. shared that "Las Vegas RV Resort is approximately 4 miles from the strip but Samstown Casino is within walking distance where you can catch the free shuttle to Harrah's Casino on the strip."
