Imagine a sparkling oasis amidst the arid desert. That’s Lake Mead National Recreation Area for you. It is a surprising contrast to the bright lights of Las Vegas.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area sits a mere 45 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. It offers welcome relief from the city’s heat and crowds. This vast area spans southeastern Nevada and northwestern Arizona. The National Park Service operates Lake Mead NRA. It follows the Colorado River corridor. It stretches from the Grand Canyon’s western boundary to just north of Laughlin and Bullhead City.
Lake Mead NRA includes Lake Mead and the smaller Lake Mohave. These reservoirs were formed by the Hoover Dam and Davis Dam. The recreation area also encompasses the surrounding desert terrain and wilderness.
Lake Mead’s formation began in 1935. This was less than a year before Hoover Dam’s completion. Initially, in 1933, the area was protected as a bird refuge. It was later established as Boulder Dam Recreation Area in 1936. The name changed to Lake Mead National Recreation Area in 1947. In 1964, the area expanded to include Lake Mohave. It became the first National Recreation Area designated by the U.S. Congress.
Lake Mead NRA offers diverse recreational activities. It draws visitors from across the country. The area covers over 1.5 million acres. It features desert landscapes, two reservoirs and unique geological features.
Premier destinations abound for boating, fishing, kayaking and swimming. Over 750 miles of shoreline support these activities. You’ll find marinas, boat ramps and houseboat rentals. Anglers can catch striped bass, catfish and crappie.
Hikers find trails for all skill levels at Lake Mead NRA. Over 200 miles of trails wind through the area. Choose from scenic lakeside walks to challenging treks. Hike the Historic Railroad Trail. Or explore Goldstrike Canyon Trail. It leads to the natural Gold Strike Hot Springs. Campgrounds and backcountry sites offer overnight options.
About 200,000 acres are managed separately. This is under the Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument established in 2000. Water covers about 186,000 acres of the recreation area.
Lake Mead NRA is home to three desert ecosystems. The Mojave Desert, Great Basin Desert and Sonoran Desert converge here. Tours of Hoover Dam are a major attraction. They are administered by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.
The ghost town of St. Thomas lies within Lake Mead NRA. Once submerged, it has reemerged as water levels recede. A 2-mile loop trail with interpretive signage tells its story. Access it near the Northshore Entrance Station, south of Overton.
Nine officially designated wilderness areas lie within Lake Mead National Recreation Area. All are in Nevada.
Lake Mead and Lake Mohave offer excellent sport fishing.
With 6.3 million recreational visits in 2012, Lake Mead National Recreation Area was the 5th most visited national park.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area is truly a place where desert landscapes meet sparkling waters, offering something for everyone. From thrilling water sports to serene hikes and glimpses into the past. It’s an unforgettable experience.