Lake Mead National Recreation Area

The Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a vast protected area in the United States, spanning 2,338 square miles across Arizona and Nevada. Established in 1936, it was the first national recreation area designated by the U.S. Congress.1

The area encompasses Lake Mead, a massive reservoir formed by the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River, and Lake Mohave. Lake Mead is one of the world's largest constructed lakes and supplies drinking water to approximately 25 million people. The recreation area offers numerous opportunities for fishing and water sports at its four marinas. It receives about eight million visitors annually.1

However, the lake has experienced unprecedented drops in water levels since 1999 due to drought and increased water demand, reaching historic lows in 2022. This has led to the closure or limitation of many boat ramps.1