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Camping near Lake Mead National Recreation Area

1,102 Reviews

Lake Mead National Recreation Area encompasses multiple campground options for visitors seeking outdoor accommodations in southern Nevada and northwestern Arizona. Several established campgrounds provide amenities ranging from basic to full-service, including Boulder Beach Campground, Las Vegas Bay Campground, and Willow Beach Campground. The recreation area also supports dispersed camping at locations such as Government Wash, Kingman Wash, and Arizona Hot Springs. Tent campers, RV enthusiasts, and boaters can find suitable camping areas within this desert landscape bordered by the Colorado River and Lake Mead.

Road conditions vary throughout the recreation area, with many dispersed sites requiring high-clearance vehicles. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for camping. As one visitor noted, "We drove down the narrow desert road into the dry mountains and were blown away by the water oasis hidden in the otherwise barren landscape." The National Park Service manages most camping areas, with some sites requiring reservations while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Cell service ranges from adequate near Boulder City to non-existent in remote areas. Campers should bring adequate water supplies, as drinking water is limited to developed campgrounds.

Waterfront access represents a major draw for campers throughout Lake Mead Recreation Area. Boat-in camping allows visitors to reach secluded shorelines and coves inaccessible by road. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "The campground set high above the water with perfectly level, absolutely immaculate sites tucked in the rocky surroundings." Facilities vary significantly between locations, with Boulder Beach and Willow Beach offering amenities like showers, drinking water, and dump stations, while dispersed areas like Government Wash provide minimal infrastructure. Wildlife viewing opportunities include bighorn sheep, which can occasionally be spotted near water sources. Most developed campgrounds remain open year-round, though extreme summer heat drives many visitors to seek higher elevations or waterfront sites where swimming provides relief from temperatures.

Best Camping Sites Near Lake Mead National Recreation Area (111)

    1. Boulder Beach Campground — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    69 Reviews
    Temple Bar Marina, AZ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (702) 293-8906

    $20 / night

    "Being Nevada it was pretty hot and humid next to the lake, but it was actually a good place to camp with plenty of birds, nice flowers and easy access to the lake for swimming, boating, and such."

    "Took my kids and my mom camping for a little vacation away from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas. I chose Boulder Beach campground as it was our first time and didn't want to be too far from home."

    2. Willow Beach Campground and RV Park

    39 Reviews
    Willow Beach, AZ
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 767-4747

    $80 / night

    "Between access to a bathroom, shower, and a nearby dock that serves food, what more do you need in the area? We even had access to WiFi! Good for a stargazing app I was using."

    "Full hook ups for all drive thru and back in camp sites. There are tent sites also and everything is well maintained. There are tables and fire pits  at all sites and lantern pole in all tent sites."

    3. Kingman Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    51 Reviews
    Lake Mead National Recreation Area, NV
    12 miles

    "You can camp close to the interstate or 3 miles away at the lake. The lake shore gets crowded. The road is bumpy but we saw cars all the way down to the lake."

    "Took my 2wd on the road there a couple times, ok if youre an experienced driver but still rough on suspension...Was able to get a shady in AM spot off the shore of the lake, away from the hustle and bustle"

    4. Arizona Hot Springs — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    7 Reviews
    Willow Beach, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (702) 293-8990

    "Arizona Hot Springs is located at Mile Marker 4 US 93 South Of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Boulder City, NV 89005. Those directions will take you to the parking lot trailhead."

    "You can either hike in or boat in to get to this location. 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."

    5. Government Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    32 Reviews
    Nellis Air Force Base, NV
    22 miles
    Website

    "Beautiful sunsets near waterline. Tent and/or vehicle camping only in this lower area. RV camping up on hill side. Fishing good. Hiking good. Lots of birds and some coyotes. Watch your small pets!"

    "There are trash dumpsters at the entrance to the dispersed camping area and we saw BLM folks out patrolling.  Many off road paths around to take your jeep or side by side.  "

    6. Lake Mead RV Village — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    Henderson, NV
    16 miles
    Website

    "These are closest to the lake, but when we visited, lake mead was very low, so the shoreline was about 1/4 mile away. Sites had decent spacing."

    "Store, propane and great views of Lake Mead. If you are able to reserve a rv pad nearest the lake, you will be in for a treat. All spots have full hookup and picnic table."

    7. Emerald Cave Dispersed — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    4 Reviews
    Willow Beach, AZ
    4 miles
    Website

    "The pin took us off-road to a private BLM spot that went to a dead end in which you can get out of your vehicles and hike .8 miles down to the river."

    "Located 45 minutes outside of Vegas, Emerald Cave is an absolute beauty. If you’re looking to get out of the city, enjoy the nice weather and warm lake water, this is the place for you."

    8. Canyon Trail RV Park

    10 Reviews
    Boulder City, NV
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (702) 293-1200

    "We came in December and even with the cold weather 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."

    "Well maintained and there is a walking path just out the back gate."

    9. Road Runner Cove — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    2 Reviews
    Willow Beach, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (702) 293-8990

    "It’s very isolated and secluded and it surrounded by trees. If you can make it you can camp and have A whole lake to yourself. Huge fish everywhere and cliffs to jump from."

    10. Las Vegas Bay Campground — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    20 Reviews
    Nellis Air Force Base, NV
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (702) 293-8906

    "All sites has prefect views of the surrounding mountains. All sites that are situated on the outer rim of the campground, be weary. Most have a good steep decline not to far away from the pavement."

    "Quiet beautifully maintained campground with a dump station, portable water, spigots near restrooms and flush toilets. Firings and picnic tables at each site. Very few sites for rigs over 26’."

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  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 15, 2026

    Kingman Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    Beautiful spot near the water

    This is a great spot and just the kind I like going to. Off the beaten path, secluded an near water. However, be warned. I stayed here on a Saturday night and apparently it is a party spot for locals. One dude with loud ass subwoofers kept turning up his music until near 2200. Also, it stays packed an getting a spot right next to the water will be difficult. Plenty of other decent spots just up from the water though.

  • wayne H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 13, 2026

    Thousand Trails Las Vegas

    Nice facilities but has air craft noise

    Decent place to say and it's part of the 1000 trails collection. However it's in a questionable part of town and right under a flight path for Las Vegas airport, I did enjoy the amenities. Such as the pool and the laundry facilities

  • Vidalia S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 13, 2026

    Kingman Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    Close to Las Vegas

    There are spots available all along Kingman Wash Access Road. We were in the 6th spot from the highway, less than half a mile in. Our spot had two fire pits and a big bag of garbage. Well at least they put it in a bag. Not much out here to recommend it other than the stark desert scenery. Evidence of visits from burros. People do drive very quickly along this reasonably good gravel road with some washboarding. There is a sign recommending continuing down the road only with a 4x4, but we did not have a problem with our Ford Transit van. Just go slow.

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 8, 2026

    Government Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    govt wash open feb 2026

    as of feb 2026, govt wash is reopened. 51 designated campsites all fcfs, no reservations. camping is free but NO WATER. toilets are scattered around, dumpsters at top by the host site. no hookups. The main camping access road is dry dusty and will affect many if the campsites. on my visit it was a dust storm and i declined to camp here. The nps needs to consider some dust abatement treatment on the main dirt access road, imo

  • Tim C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 4, 2026

    Snowbird Mesa

    Easy Overnight

    Fantastic spot for overnight on the way to Az. Lots of space to spread out and privacy. Valley of fire is a beautiful way to get around Vegas.

  • E
    Mar. 1, 2026

    Desert Sands RV Park

    Great staff

    Large park with plenty of sites for all size rigs. Staff is very friendly and helpful. Most of the people staying and/or living here are friendly also. Very clean laundry room and pool. Back-in sites are very close to each other.

Guide to Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Lake Mead National Recreation Area camping offers both primitive and developed options across elevations ranging from 500 to 1,200 feet. The area spans 1.5 million acres with nearly 900 miles of shoreline when the lake is at capacity. Water levels fluctuate significantly, affecting beach access and boat launch availability throughout the year.

What to do

Hot springs exploration: 6-mile round-trip hike at Arizona Hot Springs leads to natural thermal pools. "Although it's only a 6 mile round trip hike, make sure to bring plenty of water as it gets extremely hot in the canyon. A bathing suit and water shoes are highly encouraged as you will pass multiple hot springs (when I say they're hot, they're steaming hot)."

Kayak to hidden caves: 45 minutes from Vegas at Emerald Cave Dispersed for unique water exploration. "If it wasn't for one hill that had us question if we should chance it or not, we probably could have made it to the end of the road. Hiking the few miles down from our campsite with a kayak on my back was not fun but it was worth it once you get down to the water."

Wildlife observation: Free access to herds of wild burros near Kingman Wash. "I spent 3 days and nights here at Kingman Wash in August... The burrows were a very welcome plus that added to the enjoyment of the trip."

What campers like

Desert water contrast: Experience both environments at Kingman Wash. "This campground is amazing! There are bathrooms, but I did not use them. Donkeys roam around and the bugs are pretty extra. The 3 mile off road was a little intimidating with my 20ft camper but we made it! So worth it!"

Sunrise/sunset views: Perfect photo opportunities at Las Vegas Bay Campground. "Wonderful! Free dump station and potable water. Dispersed spaces asphalt pads, concrete picnic tables, fire rings and gorgeous views. What more can we ask? It's quiet except for the birds. Quail are everywhere."

Isolation with amenities: Feeling remote while near civilization at Las Vegas Bay Campground. "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."

What you should know

Road conditions vary drastically: Vehicle requirements differ by location. Road Runner Cove is "hard to get to but worth it. It's very isolated and secluded and surrounded by trees. If you can make it you can camp and have a whole lake to yourself."

Seasonal considerations: Avoid summer for hiking-focused trips. At Arizona Hot Springs, "the hike itself is closed during the summer months."

Water access changes with levels: Research before arrival at Government Wash. "Access limited due to low water. And covid 19. Great temp great sunsets."

Park entry fees separate from camping: Budget accordingly. "We decided to stay outside Vegas this time and I'm so glad we did. This place is so nice and quiet. Also there are hiking trails galore here."

Tips for camping with families

Shade is essential: Choose tree-covered sites for summer camping. "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!! Sites are small."

Bring water shoes: Rocky shorelines and hot surfaces require proper footwear. "Consider water shoes. While the hot springs themselves are quite smooth on the bottom the path to and from the campsite is not as smooth and easy on the bottom of your feet."

Plan educational side trips: Hoover Dam is nearby to Boulder Beach Campground. "Great views and close to the strip and hover dam. We had an amazing lake view site with full hookups for our rv. It was only 7 minutes to the hover dam and 5 minutes into Boulder City."

Tips from RVers

Generator restrictions: Plan for areas with specific rules or bring solar power. "There is a section dedicated to no generator use if you want the extra quiet. Temps were at 102 during the day and 70s at night."

Site spacing: Research specific loops at Canyon Trail RV Park for more privacy. "Park was clean with mostly level gravel pull thru sites. Dog areas and common areas were clean. Did not use the facilities but other campers were enjoying the pool and spa."

Utility connection planning: Bring extra hoses and cables for some sites. "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."

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available at Lake Mead National Recreation Area?

Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers diverse camping options. Developed campgrounds include Boulder Beach Campground and Katherine Landing North Campground at the south end of Lake Mohave. For dispersed camping, options include Government Wash and Kingman Wash. The recreation area also encompasses Lake Mohave with Cottonwood Cove Campground, Willow Beach Campground, and several free boondocking areas. Many campgrounds provide waterfront access perfect for swimming and boating.

Do I need reservations for camping at Lake Mead National Recreation Area?

Reservation requirements vary across Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Cottonwood Cove Campground offers a mix of first-come, first-served sites and reservable spots. Similarly, at Katherine Landing North Campground, some sites require reservations while others are FCFS. For dispersed camping areas like Kingman Wash and Government Wash, no reservations are needed. During peak seasons (spring and fall) and holidays, reservations are highly recommended for developed campgrounds to ensure availability.

What do reviews say about camping at Lake Mead National Recreation Area?

Reviews highlight Lake Mead's spectacular scenery and diverse camping experiences. Arizona Hot Springs receives praise for its 6-mile round trip hike leading to natural hot springs, though hikers are advised to bring plenty of water. Valley of Fire BLM Dispersed Site is appreciated for free boondocking on a short but rough road less than two miles from the park's north entrance. Campers note the excellent fishing, hiking opportunities, wildlife viewing (particularly birds), and stunning sunsets over the water. While summer heat can be intense, the proximity to water activities makes it worthwhile. Road conditions to dispersed sites often require high-clearance vehicles.

What amenities are provided at Lake Mead camping areas?

Amenities vary widely across Lake Mead camping areas. Boulder Beach Campground provides raised tent platforms, access to the lake for swimming, and basic facilities. Government Wash offers beautiful waterfront dispersed camping with no facilities. Developed campgrounds typically include picnic tables, trash collection, water spigots, flush toilets, and sometimes showers. Some campgrounds like Katherine Landing North offer RV hookup sites with power and water for an additional fee. Dispersed camping areas such as Arizona Hot Springs and Kingman Wash have no amenities, requiring campers to be fully self-sufficient and practice Leave No Trace principles.

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