A Day on the Water: The Best Water Activities at Lake Mead

The Grand Canyon is an incredible sight to behold, and an experience that stays with you forever. While many visitors flock to the well-known South Rim, the West Rim offers an entirely different kind of adventure. Imagine towering cliffs, jaw-dropping viewpoints, and spots that will push your sense of wonder to the limit. 



For those who’ve never been to the unique western rim before, we’ve got all the info, visitor tips, and recommendations you need for a successful trip. Join us as we explore what makes the West Rim a must-see destination, and why Meadview RV Park is the perfect place to stay at the end of your adventure.

Set Sail: Boat Rentals and Marinas

Let’s start with the obvious: when you're surrounded by 247 square miles of water, it would be a shame not to hit the open lake. Fortunately, boat rental options are plentiful—and they cater to every type of captain.

Need speed? Rent a powerboat. Planning a party? Consider a spacious yacht rental. If you're more the cruising type, pontoons are perfect for lazy laps around the lake. Each marina is fully equipped to get you on the water with minimal fuss, offering everything from fueling stations to bait shops to floating restaurants.

If you’d rather leave the steering to someone else, a boat tour is a great way to experience the lake’s highlights without keeping an eye on the fuel gauge. These guided excursions often include narration, historical context, and even sunset packages.

Prefer paddling to propellers? Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and explore the lake's many coves and inlets at your own pace. Paddleboarding is especially popular on calm mornings, when the surface turns to glass and the only sounds are your paddle and the occasional fish jumping out of the water.

Timing your adventure around Lake Mead weather is essential. Summers bring heat (we’re talking triple digits), while spring and fall offer milder, more paddle-friendly temperatures.

Tours or DIY? Take Your Pick

Gone Fishin’: Reel Relaxation

Fishing at Lake Mead is no passive affair—it’s an engaging experience that rewards patience with the possibility of landing a striped bass, largemouth bass, or catfish. Anglers can cast from boats or from shore, with hot spots scattered around the lake’s many arms and bays.



Bring your own gear or rent it nearby. And if you're staying overnight, stop by Meadview RV Park for a convenient base—no long drives, just you, your tackle box, and the rising sun (we’ll touch more on Meadview later).

Cool Off with a Swim

Nothing beats the heat like a dip in the lake. While much of the shoreline is rugged, there are designated swimming areas that are perfectly safe and offer great scenery. Boulder Beach is a perennial favorite for families, with easy water access and nearby facilities.



Always swim in designated zones and keep an eye on the kids—the lake is deep, and currents can be deceptive. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and don’t forget to pack out your trash. The lake gives a lot; it deserves a little respect in return.

Below the Surface: Scuba Diving at Lake Mead

You may not have guessed it, but Lake Mead is also great for scuba divers. Visibility varies by season and location, but divers can explore fascinating underwater surprises—including the wreckage of a World War II-era B-29 Superfortress, submerged roadways, and even remnants of old settlements.

It’s an experience that’s both eerie and exhilarating, and it's a reminder that Lake Mead has stories both above and below the surface.

Water Level Watch: Know Before You Go

The water level is something you’ll hear a lot about. Like much of the Southwest, the lake has been affected by drought and long-term climate patterns. But don’t let headlines fool you—there’s still plenty of lake to love.

Marinas and tour operators have adapted with floating docks and updated routes, so you won’t find your boat grounded halfway through the day. Check the Lake Mead visitor center or local resources before your trip for current conditions, safety updates, and closure notices.

Where to Stay: Base Your Adventure at Meadview RV Park

Instead of scrambling for lodging or making a long commute to the lake, base your entire trip at Meadview RV Park. Located just a stone’s throw from Lake Mead’s eastern access points, it puts you close to all the action—without the crowds or chaos of bigger cities.

Enjoy the comfort of full hookups, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and the kind of peace that only comes when you're surrounded by desert skies and starry nights. From here, it’s easy to launch your boat, hit the lake early, and still be back in time to fire up the grill. Plus, being near a top-notch RV site gives you flexibility. Stay for a few days—or make it your annual ritual. You’re minutes from all kinds of adventure, and miles from stress.

So, if you’re mapping out your next great escape, start with a spot that delivers more than just views. Start with Lake Mead—and stay where the wild meets the comfortable at Meadview RV Park. The water’s waiting—just don’t forget your sunscreen!