Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Lake Mead
Swim, boat, hike, cycle, camp, and fish at America’s first and largest national recreation area. With striking landscapes and brilliant blue waters, this year-round playground spreads across 1.5 million acres of mountains, canyons, valleys, and the vast Lake Mead and Lake Mohave. See Hoover Dam or find solitude among nine wilderness areas.

Discover Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Lake Mead photo

Lake Mead National Recreation Area is an oasis of adventure in the desert, offering stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Spanning Nevada and Arizona, this vast area includes Lake Mead and Lake Mohave, both formed by the mighty Colorado River. Visitors can boat, kayak, fish, and swim in the sparkling blue waters, or hike through colorful canyons and rugged desert terrain. With breathtaking scenery, rich history, and year-round activities, Lake Mead is the perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in the heart of the Southwest.

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Over $162 million

Since our founding in 1938, WNP has provided more than $162 million in aid to our partner parks to fund educational programs, initiatives, and scientific research.

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