1. Boulder Beach Campground

    1. Boulder Beach Campground

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    Boulder City, NV

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    Boulder Beach Campground

    3.4 (63 reviews)

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    Exhibit in the visitor center.
    TJ R.

    Its ok. Not great. The view of the lake and mountains is nice. You can see stars and hear coyotes. Nice tables and shade and roads. Cool visitor center. But bathroom locked in the morning. And also you are pretty far from the water. My site was not level. And its pretty expensive (do you pay for entrance and camping separately). Bathroom was dingy and showerless. I dunno, seems overpriced and subpar to me. You can get more for less elsewhere. Note for swimming/diving: the shore is rocky, the water clear!

    Parasitic fly. Can harm or kill you and your pets
    -246800753124688413679633 -.

    Been here twice in recent years, for 2 weeks+ each time Camping in the desert is dangerous. A large PARASITIC RABBIT BOTFLY ( cuterebra buccata) layed eggs on my dog and possibly me while I was walking them. These parasites are in the bushes that the Desert Mice + other rodents nest in all around the camp ground, but only saw one this close in spring. Now I have a doctor's visit in my future, or worse, a funeral. Since humans, dogs and cats are not the intended host there is a high risk of the parasites burrowing into the brain or eyes, blinding or killing them Winter months in Nevada are less dangerous as far as Rattlesnakes and Botflies, but there are venomous spiders in the restroom year round. Calville is not much better, and that's why most of Calville is being torn down after the pandemic At Boulder Beach, the beach does not allow dogs, though I've seen people bring them Camp hosts were mostly decent, but one in particular was condescending and grumpy (old short man), in the first loop on the right when driving in. Didn't do anything about people yelling in group camping section hours after curfew on two of the days (that they were on duty for) I stayed on my most recent trip Now that was the second time I camped here. The first time I camped here I was in "D" loop. There were many druggies walking through people's campsite, stealing, circling people's tents, leaving water faucets on a 2 am. One faucet had even been broken by one of the tweakers and had to be repaired the next day after flooding the road Guess they were trying to fix the water level of lake Mead, since the beach in has lowered so far you have to drive down to it since the pandemic. Just camp at red rock instead...

    Beach
    Staci L.

    Beautiful water! PlentY of parking space. The view is amazing. The ground is very rocky so You will need water shoes . Basically in the middle of nowhere it is a delightful spot.

    Boulder Beach in May
    Krista S.

    The water is ok, but by the shore there was a good amount of trash and gunk from the lake (honestly not sure what it was). I jumped on my floatie to get in further out. It was nice when I was able to do that. The temp was perfect this time of you. Make sure to bring chairs because the shore is rocky and not comfortable without one. There are restrooms with easy access. Dogs are not allowed at Boulder Beach.

    Morning time... 7am.. plenty of people having fun already. Beautiful sights !!
    Luigi C.

    We stopped here for the night. Arrived late at night so we had no interaction with any staff. Drove around and found us a spot to park for the night. We didn't actually reserve a camp spot as we were car camping and only stopping for the night. The restrooms and toilets were clean and well maintained. We couldn't find showers so I am not sure if they have any or they were in a different location. Plenty of picnic spaces to spend some time with family and spend the day on the beach. The night was quiet and peaceful. The owls alert us when there was any movement around before we could even hear it. Very nice companions for the night. Morning time was a very nice sight. Plenty of people down by the beach, kayaking, SUP and mountain biking. Definitely a place I would come back to spend some time with family and enjoy the beach and the scenery.

    Campsite 17
    Val W.

    Boulder Beach is a very scenic place to dry camp overlooking Lake Mead. The trees and foliage make it feel like an oasis and provide a bit of privacy and separation between some sites. We were there in winter and it was pretty chilly at night but I'm sure it would be intolerably hot in the summer without the trees for shade. Plus it attracts lots of birds who flit round in them, much to our entertainment. Even with short days and some shade, we were able to generate enough solar power. We Had to manage it a little but we didn't struggle. Navigating the loops was no problem with our 50+ foot bumper pull. Sites are level and pretty generous. We had plenty of room in our pull-through to unhook the truck as well as unload our sidecar from the toy hauler. The sites are equipped with fire pits as well as those massive national park concrete tables. The campground as a whole is well-maintained and clean. Water spigots are readily available. We were even able to stretch a hose to one to fill the trailer without moving. There was no potable water available at the dump station during our stay. It looks like there was some issue and it was cut off -- not sure if that was temporary or permanent. But again, plenty of water access in the campground loops. The restrooms are standard issue national park style with stalls and sinks but no soap. They are cleaned thoroughly daily. We had no issue finding a site in the off-season but I imagine it's super busy other times of the year. It's a nice walk down to the lake and along the foot path past the ruins of the Hualapai Lodge. It's well worth a stroll to take in the scenery and history. NOTE: there seems to be a lot of confusion between this national park campground and the Lake Mead RV Village next door that offers full hookups. So read the reviews carefully to make sure you're looking for info on the right one.

    Boulder Beach
    Becky K.

    This is a review for the beach only. You can access the beach from the main road by turning by the picnic area. There is ample parking in a rock parking lot. You will want to bring a chair for the beach since it is all rocks. You will also need water socks or some type of footwear to go into the water and to walk on the beach since it is all rocks. The water is nice and you can easily see the bottom.

    Thairi R.

    Honestly it's not the greatest place to go swimming, or take your little ones . There's lots of sharp rocks everywhere and water floor is very muddy the cleanest part are deep . We made the best of it but didn't stay very long . Don't recommend

    More groups
    Jackie V.

    Pretty nice beach BUT you need to come prepared. Bring water shoes because there are rocks everywhere even in the water. The water is perfect! Bring some type of shade like a tent or canopy. Bring beach chairs. Your boom box, cooler, and a BBQ grill (allowed on the beach) NO GLASS and you'll have a blast relaxing in and out of the water.

    Your restroom at camp.
    Ryan S.

    This place is sadly in really poor conditions. Some reviews describe an oasis, nothing even close. Camp is in horrible conditions. Camp workers are rude and condescending (not referring to Rangers.the Rangers were nice and professional). Camp sites are so close to each other that you can hear your neighbors snore. If you are looking for a quiet camping ground this one is not it. Been here many times and it's very noisy. Camp sites being so close to each other does not help one bit. Don't complain that neighbors are up till 1am with their music. Good luck.

    Your able to park literally at the waterlight smell of fish water. Sand sinks in your feet into the water a bit, which I didn't like to much.

    Lora V.

    My first Camping trip in NV was this weekend at Boulder Beach Campground. I will review with the mindset this is not where I am used to camping and just enjoy it for the fact I was out in nature enjoying probably the last stretch of nice weather we will be having for awhile! It is nice to think you can come out here to escape Vegas for a day or two. Lots of trees and flowering bushes. The grounds seemed to be well kept and maintained. There is a small convenience store to buy last minute items open until 5. It is actually a pretty large campground lots of spaces to choose from some are a bit out in the open and others are hidden behind nice bushes and trees. They also had spots with tent pads, a raised up square patch that is not full of rocks. I definitely recommend this place if you are going to make a day of water sports on the lake. When you are done or feel like taking a break come on back in and eat your lunch or dinner at your spot with you stuff and chill out under the stars and drive home the next day! This is kinda a crazy weekend to go camping because you will get whole gamut of people. There was a group of very loud partiers (don't get me wrong I like to party but in a good way not a crazy way) in a near spot that got a little out of control at one time and the rangers were there within minutes taking care of the situation. I would go back and now I know the lay of the land would know where I would prefer to stay next time.

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    A perfect destination. Facilities are well maintained. We have visited twice and will return.

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    Spacious, refreshing, fun if you bring all the right equipment for shade, floating, music and fun.

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    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - Boulder Beach Campground

    Is there cell phone reception?

    Yes, there is a cellphone reception

    What time does the parking lot by the beach close?

    Can you take dogs to this beach?

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    Review Highlights - Boulder Beach Campground

    Everything that you have read about this campground being a literal oasis in the desert is Gospel of Paul.

    Mentioned in 2 reviews

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    Lake Mead National Recreation Area -National Park Service - Lake Mead sunset

    Lake Mead National Recreation Area -National Park Service

    4.1(211 reviews)
    1.9 mi

    My friend and I took a lake cruise on the desert princess this past Saturday (7/25/26)…read more What our cruise company did not tell us was there is a parking fee to get in. I learned that it is protected by the coast guards. I guess one way to think of this place is like a national forest. Entrance/parking fee to get in and it is well protected. I probably only saw one piece of trash through the entire lake cruise duration. They truly do their best to keep this place nice and clean. The lake was peaceful and beautiful. As another user already mentioned, even though the water line is decreased over the years, the lake remains a beautiful sight to see. This was my first time here and truly, getting a break from the dry desert was definitely a treat.

    There are places in this country that aren't just destinations they're chapters of a life. Lake…read moreMead is one of mine. I remember when it was full truly full back in its heyday, when it stood as the largest reservoir in the United States, born from the mighty Hoover Dam and fed by the Colorado River like a beating heart in the desert. It wasn't just water out there... it was life. The kind of place families planned entire summers around. The kind of place that meant something. Our family didn't just "go" to Lake Mead we made a journey out of it. A couple days on the road, anticipation building mile by mile, until finally, there it was. We'd spend a week out there, soaking it all in. And I'll never forget those spring breaks. The sun high, music playing somewhere in the distance, boats cutting across the water, laughter echoing off canyon walls. Girls in bikinis everywhere and I was just a young man coming into my own, thinking every single one of them was the most beautiful woman I'd ever seen. It felt like the whole world was alive, and somehow, I was right in the middle of it. Back then, the water... it had a color you almost couldn't describe without sounding like you were exaggerating. Turquoise one minute, blue-green the next, shifting with the sunlight like it had moods of its own. The desert wrapped around it, rugged and raw, but the lake softened everything. It brought people together. You couldn't find a place to park half the time, and nobody cared. That was part of it. People shoulder to shoulder, coolers open, music playing, drinks in hand, strangers becoming friends for a weekend. It felt affordable, accessible... like it belonged to all of us. It felt like America. And now... now it feels like something else entirely. These days, when I pass by Lake Mead, it doesn't greet me the same way. The shoreline has pulled back like a memory fading. What was once shimmering and alive now looks cracked, dry, almost forgotten in places brown where it used to glow. The "bathtub ring" carved into the canyon walls isn't just a mark of water levels it's a scar. A reminder of what used to be there. It's hard not to feel like something's been taken. Whether it's overuse, growth, decisions made in rooms far away, or just time itself catching up whatever the cause, it's left behind a shell of what once was. A place that used to be bursting with life now feels like somewhere people go to remember instead of live. You don't go there the same way anymore. You visit it like a piece of history. And that's what hurts the most. Because I think about bringing my kids there today... and it's not the same gift my grandpa gave me. Not even close. What was once a living, breathing escape now feels like something we're quietly burying. Not gone but not what it was. And maybe never will be again. Still, I can close my eyes and see it. The color of that water. The sound of laughter. The feeling of being young, sunburned, a little wild, thinking the world was wide open and I was somebody in it. Lake Mead gave me that. And for that, no matter what it looks like today... I'll always love it.

    Photos
    Lake Mead National Recreation Area -National Park Service - Visitor center

    Visitor center

    Lake Mead National Recreation Area -National Park Service - Sunset at lake mead

    Sunset at lake mead

    Lake Mead National Recreation Area -National Park Service - Park store tees, hats and shirts

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    Park store tees, hats and shirts

    Desert Adventures - Aaah million dollar view

    Desert Adventures

    4.4(191 reviews)
    5.7 mi

    My husband and I did the full-day Black Canyon kayak tour with Desert Adventures and I seriously…read morecan't recommend it enough. I grew up in Vegas and have been on this river a ton by boat, and I've also hiked to both Gold Strike and Arizona Hot Springs. Those hikes are super rewarding but honestly brutal. This experience was completely different in the best way. Being able to get out of the river and be steps away from hot springs was amazing, and the views from the water are hands down the best. We met the team bright and early at 5:30am for launch, and everything was super smooth. They shuttled us, got us fitted for life jackets, handled waivers, and gave a quick safety rundown. Launch timing is strict because of the park service, but they made it feel easy and not stressful at all. Definitely be on time, though, because due to this strict timing, they will leave without you. The kayaks were such a game-changer. They were longer touring kayaks with foot-controlled rudders, dry storage, and actual back support. Super comfortable for me and somehow also worked great for my 6'2" husband (he had a larger boat). Since it was just the two of us, our guide Holmes customized the whole day to our pace. He took us to hidden spots I had never seen before, even as a local, and helped us avoid crowds. We did some hiking, rock scrambling, used ropes at Boy Scout Canyon, and explored hot springs that you can only get to from the river. It felt adventurous but still very safe, and he gave great tips the whole time. He also knew so much about the area. History of the Hoover Dam, plants, wildlife, etc. I learned a ton - even as someone who felt familiar with the area. This is exactly why I'm glad we didn't just rent kayaks. Having a guide made it feel like a next-level experience. We got to relax more while he handled the route and found the best spots. We got lucky with perfect early April weather. No wind, super glassy water, and we could see fish deep in the water. The 12 miles honestly felt way easier than expected, especially with how well Holmes guided us through the current so we could just float and chill a lot of the time. They also packed a great lunch, snacks, and plenty of water. You really just need a sun shirt, hat, sunglasses, swimsuit, water shoes, and sunscreen. They take care of the rest. Even though we leaned a little more adventurous, I could totally see this being doable for beginners, too. You don't need to be super athletic to enjoy it. Pickup and cleanup were easy and seamless. They handled everything while I grabbed a snack and relaxed, which honestly made it feel even more special. This was such a cool experience, and I would 100% do it again. Already recommending it to friends, and I would definitely consider doing the overnight version next time.

    Desert Adventures is great! We did a self led excursion…read moredown the Colorado river but used this company to drop us off and pick us up! They provided a large trailer with ample shelves and space to put are gear onto. A safety speech was also given. This company has special authorization to enter the Hoover Dam property and take people down to launch from the entrance of the Hoover Dam. They instructed you to move quickly as there was a time limit for getting everyone/everything Into the water and away from the area. The next day, they were prompt with their pick up and helped us load our gear back onto the trailer. I would definitely use this company again and recommend them to others.

    Photos
    Desert Adventures - Launch at Hoover Dam

    Launch at Hoover Dam

    Desert Adventures
    Desert Adventures - Fun day, fun times!

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    Fun day, fun times!

    Camel Safari - Camel Safari

    Camel Safari

    4.7(71 reviews)
    57.7 mi

    Best day ever at the Camel Safari! Guided by Adam and Allie-two of the most knowledgeable,…read morefriendly, and genuinely caring people you'll ever meet . This experience was unforgettable from start to finish in their 165 acre property. We kicked off the day with a short ride on Jafar, a stunning, gentle giant weighing nearly 3,000 pounds. ( love at first sight) After taking some amazing photos with him, he happily stayed nearby and spent the rest of the day with us. From there, we met several other camels and hopped on the tram, where more adventures were to be had . Along the way, we encountered so many incredible animals, more camels, a zedonk, llamas, alpacas, and miniature horses. One of the highlights was feeding Thorn, their adorable pet porcupine,grapes she was just the sweetest little girl. We also got to see New Guinea singing dogs (so cute!) and Ambien, their 20-year-old sloth, who was just as amazing to see in person as you'd imagine. Feeding the alpacas and llamas carrots was such a fun, hands-on experience. As if that wasn't enough, four friendly Ridgeback dogs casually joined us on the tram, roaming freely and adding even more charm to the day. Every animal we encountered was gentle, well cared for and clearly loved . I truly can't say enough wonderful things about this experience it was pure joy from beginning to end. If you've never met a camel, Ilama, or alpaca, you're missing out. These gentle creatures will absolutely fill your heart. I'm already looking forward to going back again soon. I didn't want the day to end . This is one adventure you don't want to miss it's truly an overload of joy! "LIVE LIFE WITH LOVE & LAUGHTER" ~PEACE JODY~

    amazing, I went with my family and we were the only ones for groups that day but what a experience…read morewe weren't expecting everything was so hands on and up close and personal such a experience and this man you could tell just absolutely loves his animals what a great time and for the price most places you pay for one animal encounter but this was an all animals experience

    Photos
    Camel Safari - Camel

    Camel

    Camel Safari - Me on Lodi

    Me on Lodi

    Camel Safari - Me & Lodi with Allie the Ranch Zoologist

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    Me & Lodi with Allie the Ranch Zoologist

    Desert River Outfitters - Loading up for the river

    Desert River Outfitters

    4.3(70 reviews)
    67.0 mi

    If you're even thinking about booking a kayak trip--just do it. And do it with Desert River…read moreOutfitters. My friend and I had the most incredible experience kayaking out of Willow Beach to the Emerald Caves, and I genuinely cannot say enough good things about this team. From the moment we arrived, everything felt organized, welcoming, and thoughtfully run. As a first-time kayaker, I was a little nervous--but that disappeared almost instantly thanks to how clearly everything was explained and how patient and encouraging the staff were. Blair was absolutely amazing--friendly, knowledgeable, and just one of those people who makes you feel at ease right away. And Wolfe (his adorable dog!) completely stole my heart. It honestly added such a fun, personal touch to the whole experience. The rest of the staff were just as fantastic--super attentive, upbeat, and clearly passionate about what they do. The trip itself? Unreal. The water at Willow Beach is stunning, and paddling into the Emerald Caves felt like something out of a dream. The views, the calmness, the whole atmosphere--it was the perfect mix of adventure and peace. What really stood out to me was how safe and comfortable they made me feel the entire time. They took the time to make sure I understood everything, checked in along the way, and made sure we were enjoying ourselves. You can tell they genuinely care about their guests having a great experience. 10/10, beyond worth it, and I would book with them again in a heartbeat. If you want a fun, beautiful, and genuinely memorable day--this is it.

    Blair was great. We were going much faster than we thought so finished the trip in one day and…read morereached out to see if he could pick us up instead of camping and he did it when he totally didn't need to! Super appreciated and big fan! Would recommend to anybody. The trip was awesome! Also gave us great recommendations for places to go and stay in Vegas afterwards!

    Photos
    Desert River Outfitters - Hoover Dam in the back, awesome view!

    Hoover Dam in the back, awesome view!

    Desert River Outfitters - Camped and admiring everything.

    Camped and admiring everything.

    Desert River Outfitters

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    River Mountain Trail

    River Mountain Trail

    4.8(6 reviews)
    4.3 mi

    We have lectric bikes and boy did we take em out for a Spin!…read moreWe rode the entire 35mile loop. It took us about 5 hours with one of them Being breaks. Even with help this trail is a beautiful beast. Steep hills and a steady gradual I cline in the middle. It sure was beautiful though. Great views. Some nature. Just some chipmunks and lizards mostly.

    An Earth Day 2016 Celebration Review…read more The River Mountain Trail (not River Mountains Loop Trail) is one of my most cherished hiking trails near Las Vegas. Ever since I first stepped foot on it in 2006, I have adored this charming trail. It is an adoration that led to an annual Spring hike on it. It is a tradition that has cost zero and gives back uncomplicated joy. Yesterday, I celebrated Earth Day on the River Mountain Trail. River Mountain Trail with the unsigned Black Mountain Trail is a six-mile round trip adventure that starts from a parking lot off mile marker 29.5 of the River Mountains Loop Trail (https://www.yelp.com/biz/river-mountains-loop-trail-henderson) in Boulder City then climbs from an elevation of 2,415 to 3,600 feet up to Red and Black Mountain (https://www.yelp.com/biz/red-and-black-mountain-boulder-city). This is what I consider a Disney Trail. Just like a Disneyland ride, it is clean; adorable; picturesque ; and provides a thrill minus the intimidation. Deep into the trail as it climbs the switchbacks up the Red & Black Mountain canyon it even resembles the Big Thunder Railroad. The Civilian Corps that built it in the 1930s did it with the imagination of a Disney Imagineer. The trail is a work of art that follows a sinuous course through the rolling desert where it passes through a verdant canyon of vegetation. Graffiti is relatively nonexistent. From the trailhead near St. Jude Ranch, the first impression is misleading. Following the beginning leg of the trail it borders housing walls and a concrete wash. After a slight curve, it meets the colossal spaces of the desert with Red and Black Mountain Mountain in the distance. In April, with the blooming wildflowers, the desert resembles an Arboretum more than a desolate landscape. Gradually the trail aims toward the Red & Black Mountain canyon. When the trail reaches 2,960 elevation, the switchbacks along the face of Red Mountain start rolling the ribbon of sand up sinuous and gentle curves toward the stratosphere in a place up by the clouds called the Red & Black Mountain summit. The amazing thing is how smoothly it reaches 3,300 feet. Ethereal and beautiful describe the experience of this solitary climb to the stratosphere. I compare this stretch to driving on Utah bound I-15 through endless desert then experiencing the roller coaster dips and turns of the Virgin River Gap. Here there are more rest stops. On the way there are large boulders to pause. Overhead vultures and airplanes pass over the sky. Below is a view of part of Boulder City. At the top of the saddle the trail name ends. Gone are the green and white trail signs with the River Mountain Trail - Bicycles prohibited signs. Gone is any thought of the trail ending. A left leads up to Red Mountain and straight to the Black Mountain summit. Now physically near the clouds and mentally on cloud nine, I continue straight for a. 05 to climb up a gentle 180 elevation gain to the end. On this walk near the clouds, I pass a rock that looks like an alligator. The trail concludes at the Black Mountain summit. At 3,480 feet high I rise above it all (Red Mountain is higher). This is a breathtaking panoramic view of the Las Vegas valley and Mount Charleston, Lake Mead, Boulder City, River Mountains, and desert interspersed with mountains reaching across the Hoover Dam Bridge into Arizona. Adorning the summit is a bench and informative sign on the geology. Even better than the rewarding overlook is that up to now was the laborious part of the hike. Heading back, the hike is a fun downhill descent toward the trailhead. I highly recommend hiking up the River Mountain Trail in the cooler months. In my opinion this hike is priceless. Being that this is an Earth Day review, it is appropriate to write that this is advice written from a person that is down to Earth.

    Photos
    River Mountain Trail - Parking lot.

    Parking lot.

    River Mountain Trail - Boulder City rest area

    Boulder City rest area

    River Mountain Trail

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    Boulder Beach Campground - campgrounds - Updated September 2026

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