Swim Cool Water and Boat from Willow Beach Marina
Why Rent On Lake Mohave
Lake Mohave runs 67 miles between Hoover Dam and Davis Dam on the Arizona-Nevada border, a narrow and dramatic reservoir where canyon walls drop directly into clear, deep water. Created in 1951, it offers some of the most visually striking boating scenery in the American Southwest, and the combination of water activities, canyon exploration, and historic character nearby makes it a genuinely complete destination for families who want more than a pool and a lazy river.
Clear Water and Exceptional Recreation
The water clarity at Lake Mohave is remarkable, and scuba diving is a well-established activity here, with divers exploring submerged canyon features and the 38-foot tow barge that sank in 1946. Boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and fishing for largemouth, smallmouth, and striped bass keep the surface busy throughout the warmer months. Three marinas, including Willow Beach and Katherine Landing on the Arizona side and Cottonwood Cove in Nevada, provide launch ramps and full amenities.
History in the Canyon Walls
The historic town of Oatman, Arizona, just east of the reservoir, is a genuine Wild West throwback with burros wandering the main street and locally owned shops and saloons that feel like a living museum. Ancient Native American petroglyphs along the Black Mountain Scenic Drive reward families who venture off the main road and into the canyon landscape.
Hot and Bright: Planning Your Visit
Lake Mohave summers are intense, and the canyon walls that make the scenery so dramatic also concentrate the heat. A vacation rental with covered outdoor space, air conditioning, and proximity to the marinas makes a warm-weather visit genuinely comfortable. Spring and fall offer ideal temperatures for extended water activity and hiking.
Canyon-Side Cabins for Your Family
A lakeside vacation home or cabin near Lake Mohave gives your group private lake access, a full kitchen for evening meals after a long day on the water, and views of the canyon that make waking up early worthwhile. Pet-friendly properties are available along both shores, and the combination of scenery, water, and history here is hard to replicate anywhere else in the Southwest.
- Surface area (mi)
- 70.21
- Max depth (ft)
- 164.04
- Elevation (ft)
- 1197.51
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 236.21
Popular activities
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Cross-country Skiing
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Mohave has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, there are safety precautions to take when swimming in Lake Mohave. Swim at your own risk since there are no lifeguards. Be aware of changing water conditions and watch for signs of trouble like dizzy or nauseous feelings, and get out of the water if something doesn’t feel right.
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Lake Mohave is a popular destination because of its various recreational opportunities. It offers activities like boating, fishing, scuba diving, swimming, hiking, and houseboating. The lake’s diverse terrain, including sandy beaches and steep canyon walls, also attracts visitors.
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Yes, there are restricted areas for spearfishing in Lake Mohave, Nevada. Spearfishing is prohibited from Cottonwood Cove to Davis Dam and from Davis Dam down-river to the Nevada state line. Additionally, spearfishing is not allowed within 1/2 mile of any dock or swimming area.
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The best beach for families at Lake Mohave is Cottonwood Cove. It offers a safe and accessible area with amenities like bathrooms and is part of a resort that caters to family activities. Additionally, it is easily reachable and provides a variety of fun water activities for all ages.
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Towns near Lake Mohave include Bullhead City, Arizona, and Laughlin, Nevada. These towns are located on the east and west banks of the Colorado River, respectively. Other nearby communities include Searchlight, Nevada, and Nelson, Nevada.
