Encompassing 1.5 million acres, Lake Mead National Recreation Area features two large reservoirs, Lake Mead and Lake Mohave. Lake Mead, the larger of the two lakes, covers approximately 247 square miles and boasts 550 miles of shoreline. Attracting nearly eight million visitors annually, Lake Mead is a popular spot for boating, waterskiing, swimming, and fishing. Its surrounding desert is home to rock formations and diverse flora and fauna, which reward hikers and photographers. Originally called Boulder Dam Recreation Area, the park’s name honors Dr. Elwood Mead, the U.S. Reclamation Commissioner between 1924 and 1936. The Alan Bible Visitor Center, located four miles east of Boulder City, provides visitors pertinent information about the recreation area. It also displays interactive, hands-on exhibits that help visitors discover the Mojave Desert. Located approximately 30 miles southeast of Las Vegas, the recreation area boasts eight marinas, which offer boat and house boat rentals. The park is also home to eight campgrounds and five RV campgrounds with hookups.
Operating Hours & Seasons:
Open year round, 24 hours a day. The visitor center is open daily, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Admission: $5 per vehicle |
