Lake Mead

Lake Mead

Lake Mead, the vast reservoir formed by the Hoover Dam, is a desert playground of boating, swimming, kayaking and fishing just 30 minutes from Las Vegas, set amid striking red-rock-and-water scenery. A per-vehicle entrance fee applies.

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Lake Mead Las Vegas: Review, Tickets & What to Expect

Lake Mead is the Las Vegas area's great outdoor escape on the water — a vast reservoir created by the Hoover Dam, ringed by dramatic desert mountains and red-rock shoreline. Just 30 minutes from the Strip, it draws boaters, swimmers, kayakers, paddleboarders and anglers to its teal waters.

The Lake Mead National Recreation Area also offers scenic drives, hiking and quiet coves to explore, charging a per-vehicle entrance fee. Summer is the busiest and best season for getting on the water, but shade is scarce, so come prepared with sun protection and plenty of water. Check current fees online.

Insider tipThere's a per-vehicle entrance fee for the recreation area, and summer is prime time for the water — bring plenty of sun protection, as shade is scarce along the shoreline.
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Location

601 Great Basin Hwy.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Lake Mead from Las Vegas?

It's about a 30-minute drive from the Strip, making it the closest big body of water to the city and an easy half- or full-day outdoor escape.

What can you do at Lake Mead?

Popular activities include boating, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and fishing, plus scenic drives and hiking around the shoreline. A per-vehicle entrance fee applies to the recreation area.
Price See ticket prices
Where Lake Mead Visitors Center, Alan Bible Visitors Center Lake Mead
Address 601 Great Basin Hwy.
Payment options Cash, check, Mastercard, Visa and Discover.
Reservations Not applicable.
Age/Height/Weight restrictions Not applicable.
Amenities Entrance fee (1-7 days): $20 per vehicle; $10 per individual (bicycles, walking) $40 for annual passes; $15 per motorcycle; Lake use (1-7 days): $16 per vessel
Opening hours Monday: 9:00AM to 4:30PM Tuesday: 9:00AM to 4:30PM Wednesday: 9:00AM to 4:30PM Thursday: 9:00AM to 4:30PM Friday: 9:00AM to 4:30PM Saturday: 9:00AM to 4:30PM Sunday: 9:00AM to 4:30PM