Best Lakes in Nevada :- Nevada is mostly known as a desert state. However, it is home to plenty of incredibly picturesque attractions that also include rivers and lakes. Located in the Great Basin region, Nevada has plenty of reservoirs, each with its own set of offerings.
From scenic lakes located in alpine areas to those nestled amidst desert land, there’s a variety of reservoirs that draw locals and tourists alike.
Whether you’re looking for a tranquil vibe or wish to try your hand at water sports, you’ll find a lake that fits your definition of a perfect lakeside outing.
Wondering where to begin?
Choose from our list of the best lakes in Nevada: –
Lake Tahoe #1
Formed around two million years ago, Lake Tahoe is the most popular lake in Nevada. It’s located along the Sierra Nevada mountains and is sprawled across 49,000 hectares.
It’s the second-largest lake in the US. There is a plethora of fun recreational activities to enjoy here such as jet skiing, boating, swimming, and paragliding.
Visiting during winter?
With snow-capped mountains all around, it offers excellent skiing opportunities and was even the site of the Winter Olympics in 1960. There are plenty of sandy beaches where you can relax. Wish to spend the night? Choose from the numerous campsites available.
Lake Mead #2
Soak in stunning views of clear waters against the backdrop of limestone rocks at this beautiful attraction. A short drive from Las Vegas lies Lake Mead.
Created due to the damming of the Colorado River by Hoover Dam, the lake is sprawled across 112 miles. Numerous canyons go inland from the main lake and lead to impressive rock formations such as buttes, arches, and caves.
From fishing, swimming, boating, and wakeboarding to tubing, water skiing, and hiking, there are abundant recreational activities to indulge in here.
You’ll also find numerous sandy beaches, hiking trails, and campgrounds around with the most popular area being Boulder Beach.
The lake comes under the Lake Mead National Recreation Area and is one of the most popular lakes in Nevada.
Lake Las Vegas #3
If you’re looking for a lively lake with ample amenities nearby, head to Lake Las Vegas. Located near the Las Vegas strip, it draws many tourists for a fun outing.
Spread across 320 acres, the lake offers plenty of recreational activities ranging from relaxing activities to thrilling adventure sports.
The shores of the lake are home to numerous resorts, two golf courses, a casino, and a swimming beach.
Looking for some adventure?
Head to Lake Las Vegas Aqua Park which features many waterslides, swings, floating walkways, and many other floating structures. Thrill seekers love to try jetpack rides, flyboards, and water skis.
Lake Topaz #4
Located along the California and Nevada border, this lake is perfect for those who wish to avoid heavy crowds. Created in 1922 due to the damming on the West Walker River, it offers plenty of recreational activities to enjoy.
From boating, water skiing, and tubing to wakeboarding, there’s something here to suit every taste.
The lake is also home to brown trout, trophy rainbow, smallmouth, and largemouth bass which makes fishing a popular activity here.
Looking to make a multi-day vacation out of it?
There are many campsites, some of which are serviced and perfect for RVs.
Pyramid Lake #5
Located a short drive from Reno, Pyramid Lake is 350 feet deep and is sprawled across 1,25,000. The water level has decreased by 80 feet, since the early 19th century but it has exposed intriguing rock formations which also include a huge pyramid.
You can go kayaking, paddle boarding, or fish for Lahontan Cutthroat Trout, Sacramento Perch, and rare species such as the cui-ui, there’s a range of activities to enjoy.
Since the lake is on Paiute Tribal land, tribal fishing licenses, and boat permits are needed.
You can also camp in a tent or RV at one of the several campsites close to the shore.
Lake Mohave #6
If you’re looking for a low-key counterpart of Lake Mead, head to Lake Mohave. Located south of Lake Mead, this stunning lake is spread across 67 miles and offers abundant recreational activities.
You can also enjoy other water sports such as boating, fishing, water-skiing, and kayaking. Its warm waters in summer make it perfect for swimming too.
If you wish to relax, unwind at the beach at Telephone Cove where you can sunbathe or play beach volleyball.
The lake was created by the Davis Dam. Its western side is in Nevada while its eastern side is in Arizona.
Since major services are on the Arizona side, you can take a quick boat ride to any of the three marinas to relish delicacies.
Walker Lake #7
Named after the mountain man Joseph R. Walker, this scenic natural lake in Mineral County boasts impressive scenery. Sprawled across 13,000 hectares, it’s nestled on the east side of the Wassuk Range.
Although it has significantly reduced in size during the 20th century, it still attracts many for a memorable lakeside outing.
One of the most notable attractions here is its recreational area known as Monument Beach.
From swimming, fishing, and picnicking, to boating, there is a range of fun activities to enjoy here.
Washoe Lake #8
Perched between Reno and Carson City, this shallow lake exudes a tranquil vibe. Since it has a depth of only 12 feet, the main water activities to enjoy here are kiteboarding, paddle-boarding, and fishing.
The lake is located in Washoe Valley and offers great opportunities for picnicking, horse-riding, hiking, and camping.
One of the major draws of the lake are sweeping views of the Carson, Virginia, and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges. With so much to offer, it’s one of the best lakes in Nevada.
Angel Lake #9
Located in north-eastern Nevada, Angel Lake is a glacial tarn sprawled across 13 acres. With towering cliffs on its three sides, it looks straight out of a postcard.
Even though it’s small, the lake offers plenty of fun recreational activities including fishing, swimming, kayaking, and canoeing.
You can also enjoy picnicking and hiking in the mountains around. The eastern shore of the lake is home to 11 picnic areas and a 26-site campground.
The lake is easily accessible via the picturesque State Route 231 from the city of Wells.
Spooner Lake #10
This artificial reservoir is located within Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park. Spread across 100 acres, it provides irrigation water and also offers many recreation opportunities.
From fishing and swimming in the lake to hiking and biking in the rugged country, there is something here for everyone.
Wish to spend the night? Camping is also available.
If you’re visiting in winter, you can enjoy activities such as skiing and snowshoeing. Nestled in the Carson Range of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, it also makes for great photo opportunities.
Lamoille Lake #11
Perched in the Ruby Mountains at an elevation of around 3,000 meters, this glacial lake is a breath-taking sight. It is at the beginning of Lamoille Canyon which adds to its beauty.
You can enjoy fishing, picnicking, and camping here. Hikers are especially drawn to the area since the trail is part of the Ruby Crest National Recreational Trail.
It goes for around 61 km and offers incredibly scenic views.
What’s more?
You can also enjoy nature photography here.
So, start with the one that draws you the most, and get ready for an unforgettable lakeside outing in this impressive state!
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FAQs:-
Q. What is the clearest lake in Nevada?
Lake Tahoe’s clear alpine waters make it the clearest lake in Nevada.
Q. What is the main lake in Nevada?
Lake Mead is the main lake in Nevada. Spread across 158,100 acres, it’s the largest lake in Nevada.
Q. Are there any natural lakes in Nevada?
There are numerous natural lakes in Nevada with the largest being Pyramid Lake.