Crawdad Cove, Lake Mead, NV

Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Nevada

National Park Service

Free Camping on Lake Mead, NV

Crawdad Cove is part of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, managed by the National Park Service. It’s a more secluded camping area with breathtaking views of Lake Mead, especially on quieter weekdays. However, visitors should be prepared for rough road and soft sand, potential weekend noise, and insect activity.

Authority

Lake Mead NRA logo

Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Nevada

National Park Service

No office prepend found.

Tel: Park Office Phone not available.

Official campground webpage

Particulars

GPS: 36.12454, -114.79804

Elevation: 1,220 feet

Reservations: First come, first served

Camping Fee: None

Permit: $25.00 per vehicle, free with Interagency Pass

Max stay: 15 days, after which you must move at least 1/2 mile away before returning to the same spot.

Amenities: None

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Admin Staff

Admin Staff

Boondocker's Bible

Crawdad Cove, Lake Mead, NV

Crowdedness: Crawdad Cove offers a mix of seclusion and occasional congestion. While weekdays generally provide tranquility, weekends can see an influx of campers, with some reporting rowdy behavior. For those seeking privacy, opting for midweek visits is advisable.

Noise Levels: Noise versus quiet can vary depending on the days of the week and holidays. Some campers enjoy serene surroundings, while others encounter noisy parties, generators, and late-night disturbances. Weekday visits seem to offer a quieter experience.

Cellular Phone Signal: Cellular connectivity varies, with mixed reports on signal strength. While some campers experience excellent service for remote work, others reported slower speeds. AT&T and T-Mobile generally offer usable signals, but actual performance may depend on the specific campsite.

Road Conditions: The road leading to Crawdad Cove presents a mixed bag. For the most part, 4WD with high clearance is recommended. Trailers are not recommended though campers with more experience seem to make in and out just fine. Caution and scouting are recommended. The closer you get to the water, the more soft it gets.

Campground Amenities: Crawdad Cove offers dry camping, and amenities are limited. Trash disposal facilities are available at the entrance, but reports of scattered litter emphasize the importance of a “pack it in, pack it out” approach. For water and dump stations, nearby options like Callville Campground are suggested.

Insect Presence: While the picturesque lake views are a highlight, gnats can be bothersome in the evening and early morning. Campers are advised to come prepared with bug repellent.

Cost of Camping: Lake Mead NRA charges $25.00 entrance fee per vehicle each time you pass through the gate, however it’s free with an Interagency Pass, National Parks Pass, Access Pass or Senior Pass. You can purchase one of these passes at the gate.

Other Campsites Within 20 Miles Radius

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