Boulder Beach Campground

Star4.36
526 reviews
601 Nevada Way, Boulder City, NV, 89005
Boulder Beach Campground
$20.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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

The daily entrance fee is $25 per vehicle, while the campground reservation fee is $20 per night. Reservations are required and can only be made online or via credit card, as cash is not accepted.
Share this campground
702-293-8906lake_fee@nps.gov

About this campground

Discover your desert oasis at Boulder Beach Campground, where palm fronds whisper in the warm breeze just minutes from the sparkling waters of Lake Mead. This year-round camping haven welcomes both tent enthusiasts and RV travelers with thoughtfully paved sites, each equipped with fire pits and picnic tables for those perfect evening gatherings under the stars. Modern amenities including flush toilets and convenient water spigots ensure comfort in the wilderness, while a scenic 20-minute stroll leads you to the sandy shores of Boulder Beach. Here, lush desert vegetation creates natural privacy screens between sites, offering unexpected shade and tranquility in this high desert paradise.
Boulder Beach Campground accommodates a range of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. The sites are spacious and paved, with no hookups available.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at Boulder Beach, where your camping adventure unfolds against the backdrop of American engineering triumph. The nearby Historic Railroad Trail invites you to walk in the footsteps of workers who built the mighty Hoover Dam, while Boulder City stands as a testament to 1930s planning and perseverance. This meticulously designed town, born from the dam's construction, offers a fascinating glimpse into Depression-era ingenuity and the human spirit that tamed the Colorado River.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal tapestry of the Mojave, where summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched adventure zone with temperatures soaring above 100°F from June through August. The shoulder seasons of May and September offer golden days hovering near 90°F, perfect for hiking and water activities. As autumn arrives, the desert reveals its gentler side, with October through April bringing crisp mornings that occasionally kiss the freezing mark in winter, followed by gloriously mild afternoons ideal for exploration.
ElevationNestled within a dramatic desert basin carved by ancient forces, Boulder Beach Campground rests in the shadow of Lake Mead's vast expanse. This low-elevation sanctuary captures the essence of the Mojave's stark beauty, where the desert floor meets one of America's largest reservoirs in a stunning convergence of landscapes.
Natural Features and SceneryAn unexpected Eden blooms in the heart of the desert at Boulder Beach, where towering palm trees sway alongside fragrant oleanders and ancient cottonwoods. This verdant microclimate attracts a surprising array of wildlife – watch for roadrunners darting between campsites, listen for the evening chorus of desert birds, and catch glimpses of nimble lizards basking on sun-warmed rocks. As dusk falls, the haunting calls of coyotes remind you that this oasis remains wonderfully wild, despite its accessible comforts.
Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Mojave Desert, where Boulder Beach Campground serves as your gateway to a geological wonderland. From your campsite among the cottonwoods, palms, and oleanders of Boulder Basin, gaze upon the rugged profiles of the River Mountains and the ancient volcanic remnant of Fortification Hill. This dramatic landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where tectonic forces and volcanic fury created the stunning desert canvas that frames Lake Mead's azure waters today.

Campsite details

AccessibilityAccessible sites are available, including pull-through spaces suitable for larger RVs. Many reviewers appreciated the effort to make the campground inclusive.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as spacious, with most featuring paved pads that accommodate large RVs or multiple tents. Some pull-through sites are available.
Sites PrivacyThe lush vegetation, including cottonwood trees and oleanders, provides a moderate level of privacy between sites. However, some campers noted that the spacing between sites could feel a little close for comfort.
Total Campsites154 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites in loops D or G for lake views; Loop A offers proximity to amenities.
Best CampsitesSites 120, 85, and 87 are highly rated for lake views and privacy.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in starts at 3:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 30 nights per visit and a total of 90 days within a consecutive 12-month period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutOrganized into several loops, including loops A, B, C, D, and G.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are required and can be made online through Recreation.gov or via their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot available for walk-up reservations. All sites require advance booking.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee if canceled after midnight the day before arrival. Late cancellations and no-shows may also result in forfeiting additional amounts.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Boulder Beach Campground offers a variety of recreational activities suited for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, kayaking, and fishing. The River Mountains Loop Trail is a highlight, providing over 30 miles of paved trails. Beaches near the campground allow for water-based recreation, including swimming, kayaking, and jet skiing. Boulder Beach is within walking distance, though some reviewers noted that it is a bit far to carry equipment.
Hiking
The River Mountains Loop Trail passes directly by the campground and spans over 30 miles, connecting to other trails like the Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail. These trails offer a mix of easy and moderate hiking opportunities with beautiful views.
Fishing
Fishing is available at the nearby Hemenway Harbor Fishing Pier. Specific details about fish species are not provided.
Swimming
Swimming is allowed at Boulder Beach, which is about a 20-minute walk from the campground. Visitors have commented that the beach's rocky terrain may require water shoes.
Biking
The River Mountains Loop Trail is a paved trail that is ideal for biking, extending over 30 miles and connecting to the Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail.
Boating
Boating activities, including kayaking and jet skiing, are available at Boulder Beach and nearby locations like the Lake Mead Marina.
Wildlife viewing
Birds, lizards, antelope squirrels, and coyotes are commonly seen around the campground. The mature vegetation attracts many bird species.
Beach activities
The beach, though rocky, offers opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and small boat activities. Water levels have receded significantly in recent years, making the shore farther from the campground.
Winter Activities
While primarily a warm-weather destination, winter visitors can enjoy cooler temperatures for hiking and exploring the trails.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at Boulder Beach, which is accessible within a 20-minute walk from the campground.

Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Fires are permitted in fire rings and grills, but must be supervised and extinguished properly.
  • Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential hazards include extreme summer temperatures, rattlesnakes, and coyotes. Wildlife should not be fed.
Active alertsAir tour noise may be present during the day.

Weather forecast

82
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 39%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 3.7 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Overcast
7-Day Forecast

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Temperature Trends

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Weather Summaries

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Emergency Services

Emergency services are available in Boulder City, including a hospital, police station, and fire station approximately 5 miles away.

Good to know

Peak season datesPeak season is year-round.
Trash and recyclingThere are dumpsters located near the entrance to the campground, but individual trash cans are absent, leading some campers to express frustration over having to walk significant distances to dispose of waste. Recycling facilities are not specifically noted.
Proximity to water featuresBoulder Beach is approximately 0.75 miles away. Lake Mead is accessible for swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
Common complaintsFrequent generator noise, lack of privacy due to closely spaced sites, and limited enforcement of quiet hours and cleanliness.
HostHosts are friendly and helpful, stationed onsite to assist visitors.

Campground Map

601 Nevada Way, Boulder City, NV, 89005
Driving directionsTake U.S. Highway 93 into the Boulder Beach Entrance of the park. Follow Lakeshore Road 2 miles and take your second right. The NPS campground is on the left.
Paved roads with easy navigation. Accessible year-round but expect extreme temperatures during summer and occasional high winds.
Nearby places
Boulder City (5 miles, 10 minutes), Henderson (10 miles, 20 minutes), Las Vegas (30 miles, 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Boulder City, which includes grocery stores, gas stations, and dining options. Firewood can also be purchased at Albertsons in Boulder City about 10 minutes away.

Camper Reviews

4.4
526 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Boulder Beach Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Boulder Beach Campground receives positive feedback for its cleanliness, accessibility, and scenic views of Lake Mead. However, some concerns include noise from generators and lack of showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 526 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the clean restrooms, spacious sites, and well-maintained facilities. The views of Lake Mead and the proximity to recreational activities were frequently praised.
Based on 526 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include noise from generators, lack of showers, occasional cleanliness issues in bathrooms, and the distance of the beach from the campground. Some reviewers also expressed frustration...
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Based on 526 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Bring your own soap and hand towels for the restrooms. - Plan for no showers by visiting options in nearby Henderson. - Avoid sites near generators if sensitive to noise. - Visit in cooler months...
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Based on 526 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter and spring are popular times to visit, with cooler weather and less crowding. Summers can be extremely hot, making outdoor activities less comfortable. Fall offers a balance of good weather...
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Based on 526 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The sunrise and sunset were beautiful each day as you can see!" "Great campground managed by caring hosts. Large sites that aren't right on top of each other." "The River Mountains Loop Trail passes...
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Based on 526 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 85 in Loop D is frequently praised for its privacy and views of Lake Mead.
Based on 526 reviews

Accessibility Features

Users appreciated the accessibility features for RVs and larger vehicles. Pull-through sites are a highlight for accessible camping.
Based on 526 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Several users noted the presence of coyotes and recommended keeping a close watch on animals.
Based on 526 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

Campgrounds
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Boulder Beach Campground