Las Vegas: Outdoor Activities Near Lake Mead

Lake Mead may appear to be an oasis in the desert, but have no fear — this man-made body of water is no mirage. It really is possible to enjoy a refreshing vacation with the backdrop of red rocks juxtaposing the crystal clear water, even in the heart of Nevada. Given its proximity to Las Vegas, the Lake Mead National Recreation Area has become a popular spot for local residents and tourists alike. There are things to do for people of all ages in Lake Mead. Here’s what you need to know about the best outdoor activities in the region:

Swimming in Lake Mead: Where Can You Splash in the Water

One of the best ways to escape the powerful rays of the Nevada sunshine is to dip into the waters of Lake Mead. People of all ages find that they can enjoy a carefree day on the water when they know the best spots to visit. These are a few tips to help you have as much fun as possible while swimming in Lake Mead:

• Stay on a houseboat so that you can swim whenever you want. Houseboats can be rented from Callville Bay Resort and Marina, and these boats allow you to enjoy a 360-degree waterfront experience at all times. If you have young children who want to start swimming as soon as the sun rises, you can let them start burning that energy early with a dip in the water. If you are booking a romantic weekend trip for two onboard a houseboat, you can cruise to a quiet cove where you can enjoy a peaceful swim together.
• Spend the day beachside and splash in the surf. Sandy Point is one of the most popular beaches in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area and is a wonderful place to go swimming for hours on end.

Lake Mead may be a man-made lake, but it’s still a powerful body of water. All swimmers should be aware of their own skills and use protective equipment whenever necessary.

Hiking the Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Hiking is a favorite outdoor activity among those who visit Lake Mead. Whether you are an inexperienced hiker who wants to hit the trails for the first time or you are an avid hiker who likes to take on a challenge, you will find a trail that meets your needs. The trails in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area wind throughout the region, and showcase some of the most incredible rock formations and vistas in the area.

Some of the most popular hiking trails in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area include:

• River Mountains Loop — This is an easy trail that is perfect for families with young children or those who have novice hikers in their travel party. It features a wide, paved path, making it one of the most accessible trails in the area.
• Callville Summit — This is a moderate trail that is best for those who have experience navigating elevated trails. The trail spans about 2.7 miles and reaches an elevation of 150 feet. Those who make the climb will enjoy breathtaking views of the Boulder Basin and River Mountains.
• Liberty Bell Arch — This is a strenuous trail that is located near Lake Mohave, which is part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. It is only open to the public seasonally, and it is recommended for those with expert hiking skills. It is a 5.5-mile trail that elevates 275 feet, ultimately taking hikers through a historic mining area to a natural arch formation.

Camping by the Shore: The Best Campsites in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area

To truly experience the great outdoors in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, you need to book a camping trip. There are many campsites around Lake Mead, but it’s important to find the best one for you and your family. Callville Bay Resort and Marina has both RV campsites as well as an area for tent camping.

Here’s why you should consider camping at Callville Bay Resort and Marina:

• Callville Bay Resort and Marina has 5 RV campsites that include luxurious amenities that other nearby campsites do not have. There are RV hookups as well as showers, bathrooms, and Wi-Fi.
• The resort also features 52 campsites where campers can pitch a tent and enjoy the beauty of the stars glistening over the lake. There’s also Wi-Fi in this part of the campsite, so campers do not have to feel too disconnected from the rest of the world.

Callville Bay Resort and Marina is an affordable place for campers to rest for the night, yet it doesn’t compromise when it comes to providing first-rate amenities. The campsites allow campers to perfectly balance the need for rugged adventure with the conveniences and comforts of modern life.

Where to Drop Your Line: What You Need to Know About Lake Mead Fishing

One of the most popular things to do on Lake Mead is to go fishing. Visitors of all ages enjoy dropping a line in the lake and trying their luck. Whether you are staying on a houseboat and fishing from your deck or you are sitting dockside at the campsite, you will find that it’s easy to pass the entire day away trying to get a great catch.

There are a few things you should know about fishing on Lake Mead:

• Sportfishing is a common activity on Lake Mead. Boaters may have to contend with a lot of other people fishing during the peak hours of the day, so it’s important to get started early.
• A variety of fish thrive in the waters of Lake Mead. The types of fish that are commonly caught include striped bass, rainbow trout, catfish, crappie and small-mouthed bass. Some people have gone fishing and made a catch weighing in at more than 40 pounds. Those who want to increase their chances of making a catch will want to bring the appropriate bait, such as cheese, marshmallows, and anchovies.
• Those who want to fish from the shore will find that there are several fishing piers located around Lake Mead. Popular fishing piers include Hemenway Fishing Pier near Boulder Beach, Willow Beach Fishing Pier on Lake Mohave and Katherine Landing Fishing Pier near the Katherine Landing marina.

If you want to make the most out of your time at Lake Mead, then it’s time to head to Callville Bay Resort and Marina. From houseboat rentals to luxurious campsites, Callville Bay Resort and Marina has everything you need to maximize your time outdoors in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

Contact us to book your Lake Mead vacation today.