Temple Bar Campground (Lake Mead)

Star4.28
14 reviews
601 Nevada Way, Boulder City, NV, 89005, USA

Quick Facts

Price

$3 - $8/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Allowed

RV Friendly

Opens Lake Mead National Recreation Area site

Get Directions
Temple Bar Campground (Lake Mead)
$3.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Recreation use fees vary based on activities and location. Reservation fees for campsites are $8 online or $9 through the contact center, with an...
Show more
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
(702) 293-8906lake_information@nps.gov

What Campers Say

4.28

Satisfactory

Based on 14 reviews

50 Google reviews

Most mentioned

friendly

"User reviews generally emphasize the campground's serene atmosphere and its proximity to Lake Mead. Common highlights include stargazing opportunities, hiking, and the friendly demeanor of the campground host. However, some concerns about cleanliness and the lack of shade are noted."

Read all reviews

Fees & Passes at Temple Bar Campground (Lake Mead)

$3 - $8/night

Campsite fees

Cancellation: Reservations cannot be made as this campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Specifi...

Prices verified November 24, 2025

Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Lake Mead National Recreation Area website.


Best Time to Camp at Temple Bar Campground (Lake Mead)

Experience the dramatic seasonal shifts of the high desert, where spring and fall deliver perfect camping weather with crisp mornings and comfortable afternoons. March emerges as a favorite among seasoned visitors, offering cool temperatures ideal for hiking and exploration. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched escape, though wise campers seek early morning adventures and afternoon siestas to beat the intense heat. The minimal shade makes spring and fall the prime seasons for those seeking to fully embrace all the outdoor activities Temple Bar has to offer.

Spring (Mar-May)

Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.

Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)

Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.

Fall (Sep-Nov)

Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.

Planning Tips

    About Temple Bar Campground (Lake Mead)

    Nestled along the shores of Lake Mead, Temple Bar Campground beckons adventurers seeking the perfect blend of desert solitude and waterfront recreation. Wake to sunrise painting the crystal-blue waters in shifting hues of gold and azure, then spend your days exploring the Temple View Trail's panoramic vistas or launching your boat from the nearby marina. Each campsite comes equipped with picnic tables and fire rings for evening gatherings under star-filled skies, while convenient restroom facilities and potable water stations ensure comfort during your stay. When you're ready for a break from camp cooking, the seasonal café offers a welcome respite with lakeside dining.
    Temple Bar Campground primarily caters to traditional camping experiences with areas suitable for tent camping. RV accommodations are also hinted at due to the presence of a dump station.
    Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal shifts of the high desert, where spring and fall deliver perfect camping weather with crisp mornings and comfortable afternoons. March emerges as a favorite among seasoned visitors, offering cool temperatures ideal for hiking and exploration. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched escape, though wise campers seek early morning adventures and afternoon siestas to beat the intense heat. The minimal shade makes spring and fall the prime seasons for those seeking to fully embrace all the outdoor activities Temple Bar has to offer.
    ElevationPerched within the vast expanse of the Mojave Desert, the campground offers a unique vantage point overlooking Lake Mead's impressive waters. Though specific elevation details vary with the desert terrain, visitors find themselves immersed in classic high desert landscapes where ancient geological forces meet modern recreational paradise.
    Natural Features and SceneryA surprising oasis awaits beneath the shade of towering eucalyptus trees, their aromatic leaves rustling in the desert breeze alongside graceful palms and fragrant oleander bushes. This unexpected greenery creates intimate camping spaces that feel worlds away from the surrounding desert. While changing water levels have created a bit more distance between campsites and Lake Mead's sapphire shoreline, the ever-evolving landscape offers its own testament to nature's dynamic forces, with new beaches and coves revealing themselves as the seasons change.
    Geological RegionSet within the magnificent Mojave Desert, Temple Bar Campground showcases the raw beauty of one of North America's most distinctive landscapes. Here, ancient rock formations tell stories millions of years in the making, while the Colorado River basin's influence creates a stunning contrast between arid desert highlands and the life-giving waters of Lake Mead. This unique convergence of ecosystems offers visitors a front-row seat to observe how water shapes and sustains life in the desert.
    Advertisement

    Campsite details

    AccessibilityUsers noted that some facilities, such as the women’s bathroom, may not be accessible to individuals with disabilities due to the hard-to-open door and inadequate space in the stalls.
    Sites SizeSites are generally small, suitable for 1-2 small tents. "Sites are a little small compared to a lot of other campgrounds."
    Sites PrivacySites are described as cozy, with oleanders providing some privacy. "The oleanders give privacy even with low usage." Some users complimented the cozy feel, while others noted sparse shade.
    Total Campsites0 campsites
    Recommended CampsitesSites further from the bathrooms may provide quieter experiences, though visitors noted proximity impacts internet access.

    Best Campsites

    Curated by campers, for campers
    Reveal picks

    Reserving a campsite

    Groups
    No details about group camping sites are provided.
    Tents
    Tents are allowed
    RV vehicles
    RV vehicles are allowed
    Primitive
    Primitive are not allowed
    Reservable
    Reservations are not allowed

    Site layoutSites are noted to be a little small compared to other campgrounds but are surrounded by trees and oleanders creating a cozy feel.
    Walk-in AvailabilityTemple Bar Campground is entirely first-come, first-served. Reviews suggest sites are often available, even during peak times.
    Cancellation PolicyReservations cannot be made as this campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Specific rules for cancellations or no-show fees do not apply.

    Amenities available

    Potable water
    Fire rings
    Picnic tables
    Dump station
    Camp Store

    Activities you can enjoy

    Temple Bar Campground offers a variety of activities, primarily centered around its proximity to Lake Mead. Visitors can enjoy hiking, boating, and stargazing. Wildlife viewing opportunities and serene lake views are also highlights. However, swimming is not permitted in the immediate area.
    Hiking
    Hiking is available through the desert along the Temple View Trail, offering views of Lake Mead and the surrounding natural beauty. "The views were spectacular!"
    Boating
    Boating is a popular activity at the campground. Visitors can launch their own boats or rent from the marina. "Launch your own boat or rent one from the marina."
    Wildlife viewing
    Wildlife viewing is mentioned as an enjoyable activity. Specific species were not noted, but the serene environment encourages such opportunities.
    Winter Activities
    No specific winter activities are detailed in the source materials.
    Water Sports
    No additional details about non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are provided, but boating is highlighted as a key activity.
    Advertisement

    Campground rules

    • Pets are allowed
    • Campfires are allowed and each site includes a fire ring.

    Hazards

    General hazardsExtreme heat during summer is noted by reviewers. Cobwebs, bugs in the bathrooms, and water hose issues are minor concerns raised by users.

    Weather at Temple Bar Campground (Lake Mead)

    63
    °F
    Dec 7
    Sunday
    Clear sky
    Precipitation: 0%

    Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

    Humidity: 33%

    Comfortable humidity levels

    Wind: 3 mph

    Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

    Clear sky

    Weather History
    Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

    Detailed 7-Day Forecast
    Powered by AI weather analysis
    Reveal forecast

    Emergency Services

    The closest emergency services are likely in Kingman, AZ, 50 miles away, or Boulder City, NV, approximately 60 miles away. Specific emergency services for hospitals, police, or ranger stations were not detailed.

    Good to know

    Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities are provided, but a general store nearby may serve some needs.
    Proximity to water featuresLake Mead is accessible but water levels have dropped significantly, making it farther away compared to historical levels.
    Common complaintsFrequent complaints include restroom cleanliness issues, limited shade during summer, and fluctuating water levels at Lake Mead which affect accessibility.
    HostJim, a friendly and attentive campground host, was praised for his helpfulness, especially in checking on campers' needs like running generators.

    Campground Map

    601 Nevada Way, Boulder City, NV, 89005, USA
    Driving directionsLocated along the eastern side of the park in Arizona. Access from the south from Kingman, Arizona or from the north by the Las Vegas Valley. The Temple Bar turnoff from US Hwy 93 is 50 miles north of Kingman and 18 miles south of the Nevada/Arizona border. The campground is about 26 miles from the turnoff for Temple Bar.
    The road leading to Temple Bar Campground is accessible by paved highways, but it requires a 26-mile drive from the nearest turnoff (US Hwy 93). Seasonal factors were not mentioned, but the road is likely consistent year-round.
    Nearby places
    Kingman, AZ (50 miles)
    Las Vegas Valley, NV (approximately 60-70 miles)
    Nevada/Arizona border (18 miles)
    Boulder City, NV (approximately 60 miles).
    Nearby supplies
    The Marina store at Temple Bar is about 1/4 mile away and is well-stocked with snacks, drinks, charcoal, and other essentials. For larger supplies or fuel, Kingman, AZ (50 miles) or Boulder City, NV (approximately 60 miles) would likely be the closest options.

    Reviews from booking and map sources

    4.3
    14 reviews
    Satisfactory
    Satisfactory
    Temple Bar Campground (Lake Mead) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
    User reviews generally emphasize the campground's serene atmosphere and its proximity to Lake Mead. Common highlights include stargazing opportunities, hiking, and the friendly demeanor of the campground host. However, some concerns about cleanliness and the lack of shade are noted.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 14 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Campers appreciated the campground's tranquility, the stargazing opportunities, and the helpful campground host. The marina and nearby facilities like the cafe and store received positive mentions....
    Show more
    Based on 14 reviews

    Common Concerns

    Complaints included inconsistent restroom cleanliness, small campsite sizes, lack of shade during summer, and the distance from the main highway. "Bathrooms were somewhat clean...cobwebs up high and...
    Show more
    Based on 14 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Visitors suggest camping outside of the summer months due to the heat, staying near water spigots for convenience, and engaging in hiking for scenic views. The store and marina are recommended for...
    Show more
    Based on 14 reviews

    Seasonal Insights

    Reviews indicate that spring and fall are preferred camping seasons due to milder temperatures. Summer is often criticized for extreme heat and lack of shade, while winter experiences are not widely...
    Show more
    Based on 14 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    "We loved the area we could hike just about anywhere. The views were spectacular!" "This little-used campground is in full bloom." "Sunrise and sunset is picturesque at Temple Bar!" "Amazing weekend...
    Show more
    Based on 14 reviews

    Site-Specific Reviews

    No specific campsite numbers or areas within the campground are highlighted as distinctly better or worse.
    Based on 14 reviews

    Accessibility Features

    Accessibility concerns include a hard-to-open door on the women’s bathroom and limited space in toilet stalls. "I couldn’t imagine being a handicapped person trying to get through let alone have...
    Show more
    Based on 14 reviews

    Pet-Friendly Features

    Pets appear to be accommodated, with one user mentioning leaving a pet in a camper with air conditioning. No specific pet-friendly features were noted.
    Based on 14 reviews

    Camper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers

    0
    0 review
    1
    2
    3
    4
    5


    Last updated November 24, 2025
    Advertisement

    Nearby Campgrounds

    Campgrounds you may also like

    Popular campgrounds in Nevada

    Campgrounds
    Lake Mead National Recreation Area
    Temple Bar Campground (Lake Mead)