Lake Mead – Arizona

Lake Mead is on the Arizona/Nevada border side of the Grand Canyon and is formed by the damming of the Colorado River. Because Lake Mead is the result of a flooded desert and covers many canyons, it has been a great tourist draw over the last few decades. Visitors to Lake Mead enjoy its fine boating, fishing, camping and swimming as well as the warm, sunny weather that blesses this region. The scenery around Lake Mead is absolutely stunning as the lake is flanked by giant rocky cliffs and the waters are clear and blue. Lake Mead is the ideal destination for boaters as much of the lake can only be explored by boat. The majority of Lake Mead’s coves and canyons can only be reached by boat and since these areas feature clean and empty beaches you can be sure to find a quiet corner away from other vacationers.

Lake Mead is easily accessed along the shoreline, especially northwest of the Hoover Dam where there are several excellent campsites, marinas, and beaches. Some of the fine marinas on Lake Mead include Callville Bay, Echo Bay, and Overton Beach. Surrounded by desert and breathtaking mountain ranges, Lake Mead is one of the most beautiful lakes in all of Arizona.

Perhaps the best thing about Lake Mead is the multitude of free campsites in secluded corners. There is no better place to come and get away and have a party than Lake Mead. Because of its numerous sandy beaches that can only be reached by boat you’re virtually guaranteed to find your own corner to set up camp and you’ll never have to worry about fellow campers interfering in your festivities. Still, campsites nearer civilization tend to be crowded and not usually well maintained so the best way to explore Lake Mead is by boat. Many visitors also make the mistake of giving up too soon and settling at the first camp sites they come across. If you drive further north you can access some secluded beaches that are clean and serene.

Lake Mead is definitely a fine boaters’ destination, but there are other fantastic outdoor activities to be enjoyed. Of course, if you have the right kind of boat you can enjoy some water skiing but there is also great diving and snorkeling in addition to fishing, hiking, and world-class camping. Lake Mead is the favorite lake destination for locals of Arizona and is becoming increasingly popular for out-of-state visitors as well!