Lori Ballen, the owner of this website, benefits from purchases made through her affiliate links.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this site are affiliate links. Portions of this content are generated by AI.
Things to Do Around Lake Mead — Las Vegas, NV
Just a short drive from the Strip sits one of the biggest reservoirs in the country — and one of my favorite easy escapes from the city.
More Things to Do in Vegas →I’ve lived in Las Vegas my whole life, and Lake Mead is the place I send people when they want to see a completely different side of the valley. It’s only about a 30–40 minute drive from the Strip, yet you trade neon for open water, red-rock canyons, and some of the best desert quiet you’ll find anywhere. Lake Mead National Recreation Area is managed by the National Park Service and covers a huge stretch of shoreline along the Colorado River, right where it’s held back by the Hoover Dam. Here’s how I’d spend a day (or a whole weekend) out there.
Get the best things to do in Las Vegas in your inbox — free.
The Best Things to Do Around Lake Mead
Get Out on the Water
Boating and water skiing are the signature activities here — there’s room to spread out across broad, open water, and you’ll see everything from little fishing boats to big houseboats. You can rent a boat or a personal watercraft at the marinas or bring your own. Tip: where you can launch changes with the lake level, so check the official park site for the currently open ramps and marinas before you tow a boat out.
Kayak or Canoe the Black Canyon
For a more personal way to see the water, paddle it. The Black Canyon stretch below the dam is a designated National Water Trail, winding past hidden coves, hot springs, and dramatic rock walls. It’s calm, scenic, and unlike anything else near the city. Tip: launching from just below Hoover Dam requires going with a licensed outfitter — and always clean and dry your gear to help stop the spread of invasive mussels.
Hike the Historic Railroad Trail
This is my favorite easy hike out here. The flat, wide gravel path follows the old railroad bed used to build the Hoover Dam and passes through a series of original tunnels blasted through the rock. It’s family-friendly and the lake views are gorgeous. Tip: there’s almost no shade, so go early in the day and bring more water than you think you’ll need.
Soak at Gold Strike Hot Springs
A rugged canyon hike leads down to a string of natural hot pools tucked between the rocks near the river — a fun reward for the scramble down. It’s a locals’ favorite in the cooler months. Tip: the trail is closed during the hottest part of the year because of extreme heat danger, so always check the official park site for current closures before you head out.
Explore Anniversary Narrows
This slot-canyon hike takes you between steep, sculpted walls where you can see layers of rock and sediment that have been hidden for ages. It feels wonderfully remote and is a favorite for photographers. Tip: the access road is rough and better suited to a high-clearance vehicle — check current road and trail conditions before you go.
Cast a Line
Lake Mead is known as some of the best sport fishing in the region, with striped bass, largemouth bass, and catfish all in the mix. You can fish from the shoreline or from a boat. Tip: you’ll need a valid fishing license — check the current Nevada regulations, since the lake sits right on the Nevada–Arizona line.
Dive to the Sunken B-29
Lake Mead is one of the top freshwater scuba destinations in the country, and its most famous site is a B-29 Superfortress that crashed into the lake in 1948 and sat undiscovered for decades. It’s an advanced, permit-based dive done through authorized operators. Tip: if you’re not a diver, you can still geek out on the story at the visitor center.
Camp Under the Desert Stars
The park has developed campgrounds with restrooms, water, shaded picnic areas, and RV options, plus room for more remote backcountry camping if you want real solitude. The night skies out here are incredible. Tip: fees, reservations, and stay limits vary by campground, so check the official park site to plan — and if you camp in the backcountry, tell someone where you’ll be.
Cool Off at the Beach
On a hot day, swimming is one of the simplest pleasures out here — the shoreline near Boulder Beach is an easy spot to wade in and relax. It’s a nice, low-key way to enjoy the lake without a boat. Tip: there are no lifeguards, so keep an eye on kids and watch for sudden drop-offs.
Take the Scenic Drive
If you’d rather stay on land, the drive through the park is a destination in itself. Paved roads wind through jagged mountains, colorful rock, and wide desert views — especially pretty around sunset or after a spring rain when wildflowers pop. Tip: stay on paved and designated roads to protect the fragile desert and keep out of trouble in the backcountry.
Pair It With Hoover Dam
Lake Mead exists because of the Hoover Dam, and the two make a perfect combined day trip. Tour the dam, walk out over it, and take in the engineering that created the whole recreation area. Tip: see my full guide to the Hoover Dam to plan tours and parking.
A Few Local Tips
Getting there: Lake Mead National Recreation Area is roughly a 30–40 minute drive southeast of the Las Vegas Strip via I-515/US-93, with several entrances around Boulder City and along Northshore Road.
Entrance fees: This is a fee area with a per-vehicle pass good for several days (annual and America the Beautiful passes are honored), and the park is cashless — card payment only. Fees change over time, so check the official park site for current amounts.
Water levels & marina access: Lake Mead’s level rises and falls, and the National Park Service adjusts which launch ramps and marinas are open accordingly. Always confirm current conditions and open facilities on the official park site before you plan boating.
Heat & safety: Summer temperatures are extreme. Carry plenty of water, wear sun protection, and never leave pets in a hot car. Some trails, including the hot springs, close in the hottest months.
Pets: Dogs are welcome in most areas but must be on a leash no longer than six feet. Hours, fees, and conditions vary — check the official park site before you visit.
Thinking about living closer to the water? See homes for sale in Boulder City, NV — the charming gateway town right at Lake Mead’s doorstep.
Get the Best of Las Vegas in Your Inbox
Day trips like Lake Mead, new restaurants, shows, events, and hidden gems around the valley — a few good ideas in your inbox. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Join the Ballen Vegas newsletter — local tips from a lifelong Las Vegan. We’ll never share your email.
Book a Lake Mead or Las Vegas experience
Tours, tickets, and experiences for your Las Vegas trip.
Some links are affiliate links; we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Thinking about moving to Las Vegas?
There’s a reason so many people fall for this city. If you’re considering a move — or wondering what your current home is worth — my team would love to help.
Get My Home Value → Contact Lori
Lori Ballen
REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty Las Vegas, leading The Ballen Group. A lifelong Las Vegan sharing the best of the valley.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this site are affiliate links. Portions of this content are generated by AI.
