If you can’t make it out to the ocean this summer, then you can at least make it out to a lake—especially in Nevada. The state is home to several different lake hotspots that are located all throughout Nevada and that offer everything from boating rentals to fishing opportunities, swimming coves and more. Check out the best Nevada lakes to round out your summer on a high and refreshing note.
Lake Tahoe
You can’t curate a list of the best Nevada lakes without including Lake Tahoe—which is a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. Unlike other lakes throughout Nevada, Lake Tahoe feels less like a southwest hotspot and more like a refreshing, mountain-centric escape into the Pacific Northwest. Plus, Lake Tahoe has no shortage of high-intensity water activities—including everything from boating and jet skiing to wake boarding, swimming, paddle boarding and more. For more information, visit www.gotahoenorth.com.
Lake Las Vegas
In true Sin City fashion, Lake Las Vegas might be the glitziest and most upscale lake we’ve ever seen. Hailed for being an oasis in the desert, this 320-acre reservoir has luxury living offerings, pristine southwest views and a resort-esque lifestyle that’s so charming, the lake has literally been given the nickname “Lake Las Vegas Resort.” For more information, visit www.lakelasvegas.com.
Lake Mead
Few lakes in Nevada are more primed for boating adventures than Lake Mead. Despite the picturesque views of the surrounding mountain ranges, visitors to the lake can also enjoy a wide variety of water activities, including an expansive boat dock perfect for unloading boats, kayaks, canoes and more. For more information, visit www.nps.gov.
Lake Mohave
If you have a deep appreciation for the Colorado River and all that it provides to the Southwest, then you’ll love visiting Lake Mohave—a lake that spans approximately 67 miles all along the Hoover Dam to Davis Dam. The water hotspot straddles the Nevada-Arizona border, allowing visitors all across the greater region to easily visit and adventure their way up the lake’s channel. For more information, visit www.nps.gov.
Topaz Lake
Whether you’re a pro-paddle boarder, an avid hiker or just someone looking to embark on a lakeside adventure this summer, you’ll have so much fun visiting Topaz Lake—a water body located near the Nevada-California border that features everything from water activities to RV camping sites and more. For more information, visit www.communityservices.douglascountynv.gov/parks.