Lake Mead National Recreation Area

This Recreation Area is an immense tract just outside Las Vegas. The area incorporates both the Hoover Dam, and lake that is formed behind the Dam.    This park stretches from the Grand Canyon and down the Colorado river well beyond Hoover Dam.  Lake Mead is gigantic.   Rent a boat to tour the lake,  swim at the beaches,  and fish the lake any time of the year.   There is more wild life then any other area around Las Vegas. Take the drive along the western side of the Lake and enjoy the gorgeous vistas.  The marinas have boats for rent.  There are actually two roads in Las Vegas named Lake Mead. Each reaches a different part of the lake.  However, the most convenient approach to the lake is along the drive to  Hoover Dam and you can enjoy both areas on the same day. From Las Vegas take US 93 south through Boulder City and then turn where a big monument sign announces Lake Mead. A short distance beyond this turn is a Visitor Center where you can orient yourself. Another outstanding view of the Lake is at an overlook further down the road toward the Dam.