“Ever driven a four-wheel drive through a gypsum silt deposit? Boxcar Cove is exactly that. Welcome to Boxcar Cove a dispersed camping area in Lake Mead National Recreation Area. It’s about a 40-minute drive east of Las Vegas. Just follow Northshore Road to mile marker 8.9. You’ll see a brown sign and a yellow arrow. That’s your cue to turn right.
Boxcar Cove is more than just a pretty cove. It’s a vast dry wash. Imagine ancient ocean bottom mud hills all around you. This place is a playground for off-road vehicles. It’s incredibly popular with weekenders. The striped bass fishing is good too.
The road itself is about 2.75 miles long. It’s a maintained backcountry road. However parts get soft in the sand. People do get stuck sometimes. Don’t worry though. It’s heavily used so help is usually nearby. There’s even an outhouse about two miles in. It’s the only restroom for miles. But remember the 10 Essentials. Bring water. Don’t venture out if rain is expected. Flash floods are a real danger here.
Camping is allowed on existing sites. You’ll find old fire rings everywhere. However driving or camping on virgin ground is strictly prohibited. This is a gypsum silt deposit. Dust storms can be brutal. They cover everything in a thick layer of dust. Wear a dust mask. A vehicle is better shelter than a tent during a dust storm.
Even four-wheel drive vehicles can get stuck in the silt. Bring a tow strap. During the summer it’s quiet. Raptors hunt here. You might even spot bighorn rams. Coyotes sing at night. Kit foxes appear after dark. These animals are not dangerous but give them space. There’s a strong data signal here so you can stay connected. Boxcar Cove offers a unique desert experience. It’s a place of adventure. It’s a place to get away from it all.”