Alerts
Current ConditionsThere are no restrictions in effect above and beyond standard park regulations related to wood campfires, charcoal, and other open flames. For more details, see section 2.13 of the Superintendent's Compendium. 2026 seasonal trail closuresTo help keep visitors and first responder staff safe from dangerously high temperatures during the summer months, Lake Mead National Recreation Area institutes an annual seasonal closure of certain strenuous trails from May 15 to September 30. Temporary closures can take place outside of these dates when temperatures are forecast to reach 95 Fahrenheit or higher at Willow Beach (AZ).
36 Code of Federal Regulations section §1.5 (a)(1)(8): VISITING HOURS, PUBLIC USE LIMITS, CLOSURES AND AREA DESIGNATIONS FOR SPECIFIC USE OR ACTIVITIES. Superintendent's Compendium, Closures, and Administrative Orders - Lake Mead National Recreation Area (U.S. National Park Service) Declining water levels due to climate change and 20 years of ongoing drought have reshaped the park’s shorelines. As Lake Mead continues to recede, extending launch ramps becomes more difficult and more expensive due to the topography and projected decline in water levels. Lake Mead National Recreation Area encourages visitors to plan ahead and stay informed by checking current conditions and alerts. Get current water temperatures, wind speeds, wave heights and more by clicking on the below links and then clicking on the observations tab. If a monsoon develops, which can happen rapidly, those on the water should find a sheltered cove or shore. Launch ramps become crowded after storms arrive. It’s also wise to write down current GPS coordinates, so rescue crews can locate you more quickly. If flash flooding occurs on land, visitors should seek high ground.
Monsoon rains between July and September cause flooding across roads that leave sharp rocks and deep mud on the pavement.
Use caution when driving around the park for the next two months as more monsoons and washouts may occur. Take extra care when driving through wash crossings. Where Can I Launch?Changing Lake LevelsLoading weather forecast... |
Last updated: August 20, 2026