Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Mead National Recreation Area adventure.
Cool off in Lake Mead and Lake Mohave at the country's oldest recreation area.
Encompassing some 1.5 million acres, Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers all sorts of opportunities for outdoor fun and camping throughout the year. The park is home to two lakes—Lake Mead and Lake Mohave—and with over 900 campsites across the massive park, it's a great place to linger for a while. Many of the most popular activities involve getting out on the waters, and the biggest draw for visitors is the chance to spend days swimming, boating, and fishing. There’s plenty to do on land, too, with miles of hiking and biking trails, plus regular ranger-guided hikes.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area is open throughout the year, and while it's at its most popular during summer vacation, it's important to be prepared for high temperatures from June through August. Mid-to-late September is a great time to visit, after kids have gone back to school for the year. Weather still tends to be hot but not unbearably so, and the waters are warmer than during the spring shoulder season.
For desert enthusiasts, camping near Beaver Dam Wash National Conservation Area is a must. Experience camping like never before, with the vibrant hues of the Mojave Desert, unique wildlife encounters, and spectacular night skies that make Beaver Dam Wash a fantastic outdoor experience.