Las Vegas Bay Campground

Star4.12
194 reviews
Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Park Headquarters, 601 Nevada Way, Boulder City, NV, 89005
Las Vegas Bay Campground
$10.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Park entrance fee is $25 per vehicle for 1-7 days, with discounts for Interagency and Lake Mead Pass holders. Camping fees are $20 per night, $10 for...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$20.00

Share this campground
Recreation.gov
Provider
702-293-8906lake_fee@nps.gov

About this campground

Escape the neon lights and discover your desert oasis at Las Vegas Bay Campground, where paved RV and tent sites nestle beneath a surprising canopy of shade trees. Each thoughtfully designed site comes equipped with tables, grills, and fire pits for evening gatherings under star-filled skies. Adventure beckons just steps away via the scenic Bluffs Trail, while the lush, shaded grounds offer a refreshing contrast to the surrounding desert. Despite being just minutes from the entertainment capital, this tranquil retreat feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Las Vegas Bay Campground accommodates a mix of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. The sites are paved and offer basic amenities but lack hookups.
Historical SignificanceNestled within the vast expanse of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Las Vegas Bay Campground serves as your gateway to both natural wonders and cultural treasures. While the campground itself tells a quieter story, its strategic location offers easy access to the rich tapestry of Las Vegas's cultural attractions, allowing visitors to seamlessly blend outdoor adventure with the area's vibrant heritage and entertainment offerings.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasons of the Mojave Desert, where summer brings intense heat with mercury soaring above 100°F – perfect for early morning hikes and afternoon siestas in the shade. Spring and fall emerge as the golden seasons, painting the landscape with comfortable temperatures hovering near 90°F and ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Winter transforms the desert into a cooler wonderland, with crisp nights that can dip to freezing between December and February, creating perfect campfire weather and crystal-clear stargazing opportunities.
ElevationPerched at approximately 1,200 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a unique position in the desert terrain where elevation brings subtle relief from the valley floor's intensity. This modest altitude creates a microclimate that supports the campground's unexpected greenery while offering expansive views across the rugged desert landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover an unexpected desert paradise where towering palm trees sway alongside fragrant oleanders and majestic cottonwoods create natural cathedral ceilings above your campsite. This verdant oasis attracts a delightful cast of desert characters – watch for the distinctive plume of quail darting between bushes, roadrunners racing along trails, and the occasional coyote's silhouette at dusk. Lucky visitors might spot nimble antelope squirrels performing acrobatic feats among the branches, while the native vegetation provides both beauty and vital shade in this remarkable desert ecosystem.
Geological RegionSituated on the dramatic western edge of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Las Vegas Bay Campground occupies a fascinating geological crossroads where water's ancient influence meets desert resilience. The landscape tells a story of transformation, where lush vegetation thrives against all odds in the arid environment. Mature cottonwoods reach skyward alongside exotic palms and flowering oleanders, creating an enchanting contrast to the surrounding desert vistas and showcasing nature's remarkable ability to adapt and flourish in this unique corner of the American Southwest.

Campsite details

AccessibilityAccessible sites are available for individuals with disabilities, though specific details on accessibility features are limited.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with room for up to eight people and one camping unit (e.g., motorhome or trailer). Certain sites are noted for accommodating larger RVs with some maneuvering challenges.
Sites PrivacyThe lush vegetation, including oleanders and cottonwoods, provides moderate privacy between sites. However, some reviews mention that privacy varies by site, with some sites being more exposed.
Total Campsites85 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites on the outer loop for privacy and better wind protection. Avoid sites near restrooms due to noise.
Best CampsitesSite #17 reportedly has excellent shade and privacy. Sites in the non-generator loop are highly recommended for quiet stays.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 30 days in any developed campground. A total of 90 days is allowed within the park in a 12-month period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates up to 8 people and 4 tents or one camping unit.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are arranged in loops with paved roads leading to asphalt pads. Non-generator loop available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations required through Recreation.gov, same-day bookings allowed. No cash payments accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available, payment must be made at the kiosk using credit cards only.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to 1 day before arrival. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and the loss of the first night's fee. Self-service modifications are allowed online after arrival.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Las Vegas Bay Campground offers a serene environment with a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing. The nearby Bluffs Trail provides scenic views of the Las Vegas Wash. While there is no direct access to the lake from the campground, trails, marinas, and fishing piers are accessible by car.
Hiking
The Bluffs Trail, accessible from site #72, is a well-marked trail offering views of the Las Vegas Wash. Hiking difficulty is described as easy, making it suitable for families. Other trails in the area include Owl Canyon, which is highly recommended by users.
Biking
There are biking trails in the area, with users recommending the nearby bike paths as a recreational option.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes birds, lizards, antelope squirrels, and occasionally coyotes. Birdwatching is a popular activity, with many campers recommending bringing binoculars.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited to camping and exploring nearby trails. Campers should prepare for freezing temperatures in the winter months.
Water Sports
Water sports are not directly available at the campground, but nearby marinas may support such activities.

Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Fires are permitted in designated grills and fire rings. Portable stoves are also allowed.
  • Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Hazards

General hazardsCoyotes are active around campsites. High winds common, making tent staking difficult. Wildlife interaction risks if improper food storage occurs.
Active alertsCurrently, electrical outages have affected lighting in bathrooms, and some users report cleanliness issues.

Weather forecast

70
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Humidity: 69%

Moderately humid conditions

Wind: 5.4 mph

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Clear sky
7-Day Forecast

Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.

Daily & Hourly Insights

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Temperature Trends

Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.

Precipitation Trends

Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.

Weather Summaries

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Emergency Services

Closest medical facilities are in Henderson or Boulder City, approximately 10-20 minutes away. Police and ranger stations are located within the park.

Good to know

Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31 (peak season pricing applies throughout the year).
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but reviews suggest that trash removal may be inconsistent as overflowing bins have been reported.
Proximity to water featuresNo direct access to Lake Mead. The nearest water body is accessible by car in 20 minutes.
Common complaintsGenerator noise, infrequent bathroom cleaning, lack of camp host presence, and outdated facilities.
HostCampground host availability is inconsistent. Users report helpful hosts in prior visits, but the current absence is noted.

Campground Map

Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Park Headquarters, 601 Nevada Way, Boulder City, NV, 89005
Driving directionsTake Lake Mead Parkway east to the park entrance. Follow the road about 2.5 miles. Turn left onto Lakeshore Drive and take your first left onto Las Vegas Campground Road. You’ll arrive at the campground in about 1 mile.
Paved roads lead to the campground entrance, making it accessible year-round. Seasonal closures or challenging terrain are not mentioned.
Nearby places
Henderson (10 miles, 20 minutes), Las Vegas (18 miles, 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies available in Henderson and Boulder City, approximately 10-20 minutes away. Fuel stations located nearby in these cities.

Camper Reviews

4.1
194 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Las Vegas Bay Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's serene atmosphere and proximity to Las Vegas, making it a convenient getaway. Positive aspects include the quiet environment, scenic views, and spacious sites. However, common complaints involve inconsistent restroom cleanliness, generator noise, and the lack of a camp host.
Review Summaries
Based on 194 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently praise the campground for its peaceful atmosphere, proximity to Las Vegas, and natural beauty. Comments like 'super quiet, nice view, equipped with a fire pit' and 'clean,...
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Based on 194 reviews

Common Concerns

Several campers have raised issues regarding the cleanliness and maintenance of restrooms, excessive generator noise, and the absence of a camp host. One user remarked, 'Bathrooms were badly in need...
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Based on 194 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Bring your own soap and toilet paper as bathrooms may lack supplies. - Choose sites in the 'No Generator' loop for a quieter experience. - Arrive early to secure better spots, especially during...
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Based on 194 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight extreme heat, with some users suggesting generators are necessary for RV cooling. Spring and fall are favored for milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter reviews mention...
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Based on 194 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Cannot recommend this enough for those looking to get further away from Las Vegas.' - 'Bathrooms were not washed the entire 6 days I was there.' - 'Nice private site close to water and the...
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Based on 194 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #72 is popular for its proximity to the Bluffs Trail. Sites in the 'No Generator' loop, such as Site #30, are highly recommended for a quieter experience. Some users note that sites closer to...
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Based on 194 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews do not specifically address accessibility features, but accessible sites are available. Some feedback notes that dirt terrain and uneven paths may pose challenges for campers with mobility...
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Based on 194 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some users noted the presence of coyotes and suggested keeping small pets safely constrained.
Based on 194 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

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