Swim, boat, hike, cycle, camp and fish at America’s first and largest national recreation area. With striking landscapes and brilliant blue waters, this year-round playground spreads across 1.5 million acres of mountains, canyons, valleys and two vast lakes. See the Hoover Dam from the waters of Lake Mead or Lake Mohave, or find solitude in one of the park's nine wilderness areas.
There is one national park just minutes from Las Vegas that has Joshua trees, slot canyons and night skies illuminated by the Milky Way. One national park where the rocks are as red as fire and the mountains are purple majesties. Take a look.
With more than 750 miles of shoreline, you can enjoy a day at the beach, take a boat out and disappear for hours or nestle into a cove.
Lake Mohave is known for its abundance of sandy coves and mix of the peaceful Black Canyon and high-octane open waters.
Discover the many marinas and coves at Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
With more than 290 square miles of water surface, you can be sure to find a favorite spot to catch the big one.
There are many places to swim in the bright blue waters of Lake Mead and Lake Mohave.
Perhaps the best way to explore the Mojave ecosystem is on foot, traveling across open expanses of rock formations.
Looking for campgrounds? With over 900 camping and RV sites, there is a variety of desert and lakeside views.
The Surface Project is an exciting online resource that brings the stories and science within these lakes to the surface.
This virtual museum includes collections of historic photographs, artifacts, flora and fauna. COMING SOON: Fossils
The park preserves the recreational potential of the area, which includes the traditions of hunting, fishing and trapping.
Bicyclists are welcome to ride at Lake Mead National Recreation Area on park roads, on routes designated for bicycle use.
Visit our park store at the Lake Mead Visitor Center or online.
Last updated: May 24, 2021