Who hasn’t dreamed of spending a few days on the open water, living in the lap of luxury on a houseboat? Lake Mead, located on the Arizona-Nevada border, is the perfect spot to do just that.
But what do you need to know before you book a houseboat rental? In this article, you’ll learn all about Lake Mead, the different houseboat rentals available, the activities you can enjoy while on the lake, and the costs associated with houseboating.
You’ll also get a look at some of the must-see attractions and where to stay when visiting the lake.
So if you’re ready to live the houseboat life, keep reading – you won’t want to miss out on all that Lake Mead has to offer!
Short Answer
Yes, you can still houseboat on Lake Mead.
Houseboating is a popular activity on the lake, and there are several marinas and companies that provide houseboat rentals.
Lake Mead also has several campgrounds that allow houseboats to stay overnight, and visitors can enjoy the variety of recreational activities available on the lake, including fishing, water skiing, swimming, and boating.
What is Lake Mead?
Lake Mead is a large man-made reservoir located on the Colorado River between Arizona and Nevada.
It was created by the construction of the Hoover Dam in 1935 and is now the largest reservoir in the United States.
Named after Elwood Mead, the commissioner of the United States Bureau of Reclamation from 1924 to 1936, Lake Mead covers an area of 247 square miles and is the largest national recreation area in the United States.
It provides a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, and camping.
It is also a popular destination for houseboating, as the lake is filled with coves and bays that are ideal for exploring.
The lake is over 110 miles long and contains two main arms, the main lake and the Virgin Basin. The main lake is the larger of the two and contains three distinct basins: the Overton Arm, the Boulder Basin, and the Virgin Basin. The Virgin Basin is the smaller of the two and is home to some of the best fishing and houseboat rental opportunities on the lake.
Lake Mead is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, bighorn sheep, and a variety of fish.
The lake is also home to several shipwrecks, including the USS Thomas, which sank in 1933, and the SS Monte Carlo, which sank in 1945.
These shipwrecks have become popular destinations among divers and adventurers.
In addition to its recreational activities, Lake Mead is also a source of hydroelectric power, providing a significant portion of the power needs of the states of Arizona and Nevada.
The lake is also home to the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, a popular tourist destination with a variety of activities and attractions.
What Type of Houseboat Rentals Are Available?
When it comes to houseboat rentals on Lake Mead, there is a wide variety of options available.
Whether you’re looking for a comfortable family-sized houseboat, a luxurious floating villa, or a cozy cabin cruiser, you’ll find something to fit your needs.
The most popular type of houseboat rental is the traditional houseboat, which is typically equipped with a kitchen, living area, and bedrooms.
These houseboats are typically between 35 and 65 feet in length and can accommodate up to 10 people.
They come with a variety of amenities, such as a fully-equipped galley kitchen, flat-screen TVs, and a sundeck.
For those looking for something a little more luxurious, there are larger houseboats with more amenities and space.
These houseboats can range up to 100 feet in length and can accommodate up to 20 people.
They feature amenities such as full-size kitchens, multiple bathrooms, and spacious living areas.
Cabin cruisers are another option for those looking for a more intimate experience.
These smaller houseboats are typically between 20 and 40 feet in length and can accommodate up to six people.
They come with basic amenities, such as kitchenettes, restrooms, and sleeping quarters.
Finally, there are pontoon boats and other smaller vessels, such as fishing boats, ski boats, and jet skis.
These are great for shorter trips and can accommodate up to six people.
They come with basic amenities, such as a kitchenette, restroom, and seating area.
No matter what type of houseboat rental you’re looking for, you’re sure to find something to fit your needs on Lake Mead.
With its stunning scenery and wide variety of recreational activities, it’s no wonder that houseboating on Lake Mead is so popular.
So what are you waiting for? Get out on the lake and enjoy the ride!
What Activities Can You Enjoy While on the Lake?
Houseboating on Lake Mead can be an incredibly enjoyable experience.
With its stunning scenery and endless recreational opportunities, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing ride, a fishing expedition, or a chance to explore the lake’s many coves and bays, Lake Mead has something for everyone.
Fishing is a popular activity on the lake, with a variety of species in the waters.
Anglers can find bass, catfish, and trout, as well as the occasional walleye.
Boaters can also enjoy swimming, as well as water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing.
Those looking for a more leisurely activity can simply relax and take in the beautiful surrounding landscape.
The area around Lake Mead is also filled with a variety of attractions.
Boaters can explore the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon, both of which make for a great day trip.
There are also many other parks and monuments in the area, including the nearby Lake Mohave, which is a great spot for swimming and other water sports.
Houseboating on Lake Mead can be a great way to spend time with family and friends.
With a variety of activities available, it can be a great way to make memories that will last a lifetime.
What to Know Before Booking a Houseboat
If youre looking to rent a houseboat on Lake Mead, there are a few things you should know first.
First and foremost, youll need to check with the marina to see what size boat is available.
Houseboats come in all shapes and sizes, and the marina will need to know the size of your group, as well as the size of the boat youre looking to rent.
You should also be aware that the prices can vary from marina to marina, so its a good idea to shop around to get the best deal.
Once youve decided on a houseboat, youll need to make sure you have the necessary supplies.
This includes food and drinks, as well as any recreational equipment you might want to bring along.
Youll also want to make sure you have enough fuel for your trip, as well as extra supplies in case of an emergency.
Finally, youll need to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of Lake Mead.
Be sure to check with the marina to make sure youre aware of all the rules and restrictions.
This includes restrictions on fishing, swimming, and other activities, as well as the specific hours of operation for the marina.
By understanding the rules and regulations, youll make sure your houseboating experience is safe and enjoyable.
What are the Costs of Houseboating on Lake Mead?
When it comes to houseboating on Lake Mead, the cost of your trip will depend on a few factors.
First, youll need to decide whether you want to rent a houseboat or bring your own.
Renting a houseboat can be a great option for those who want to save money and dont own one of their own.
Rental costs vary depending on the size of the boat and the length of your stay, with smaller boats typically costing less than larger boats.
In addition to the cost of the houseboat, youll also need to factor in the cost of fuel and supplies.
Fuel costs can vary depending on the size of your boat and how far you plan to travel.
Additionally, youll need to budget for food and other supplies, such as life jackets, sunscreen, and fishing gear.
Finally, youll need to factor in the cost of any overnight mooring fees at the marina.
These fees can vary depending on the length of your stay and the size of your boat.
Overall, houseboating on Lake Mead can be an enjoyable and affordable experience.
With careful planning and budgeting, you should be able to find a houseboat and supplies that fit your budget and make your dream houseboat trip a reality.
Where to Stay at the Lake
When it comes to houseboating on Lake Mead, there are plenty of options for accommodation.
Depending on the size of your party, you can choose from a variety of houseboat sizes to suit your needs.
Most marinas offer a variety of houseboats ranging in size from a two-person vessel to a larger party boat that can accommodate up to twelve people.
If youre looking for a unique experience, you can even rent a houseboat that comes complete with a hot tub, air conditioning, and a kitchenette.
For those who want to stay off the water, there are plenty of lodges and resorts located on the lakes shore.
Whether youre looking for a luxury resort or a cozy cabin, there are plenty of options to choose from.
If youre looking for a more secluded experience, there are also a number of beach campsites located on the lakes shore.
No matter what your budget is, youll be able to find the perfect accommodation for your Lake Mead houseboating adventure.
Whether you choose to stay on the water or on the shore, youll be able to enjoy the stunning scenery and have a relaxing and memorable experience.
Must-See Attractions at Lake Mead
Lake Mead offers a variety of exciting attractions for houseboaters.
From the stunning landscape of the lakes many coves and bays to the abundance of fish and wildlife, houseboaters can find plenty to explore.
The Hoover Dam, located just upstream of Lake Mead, is an impressive feat of engineering and a must-see attraction.
Take a tour of the dam and learn about its history and construction.
You’ll also have the opportunity to take in the beautiful views of Black Canyon and the Colorado River.
The Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers plenty of recreational activities for houseboaters.
Spend a day fishing, swimming, or exploring the parks many trails and coves.
You can also take a boat tour of the lake to get an up-close look at the areas wildlife and scenery.
Houseboaters can also take a trip to Lake Mohave, located just south of Lake Mead.
Lake Mohave is a smaller lake but offers a variety of activities, such as fishing, swimming, and hiking.
The lake is also home to a number of caves, making it a great spot for spelunking.
No matter what youre looking for in a houseboating experience, Lake Mead has something to offer.
With its stunning scenery and abundance of activities, its easy to see why houseboaters flock to this lake year after year.
So, if youre looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous vacation, Lake Mead is the perfect destination.
Final Thoughts
Houseboating on Lake Mead is a great way to enjoy some of the most stunning views in Arizona and Nevada.
With a variety of houseboat rentals available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
From fishing to swimming and exploring the lake’s many coves and bays, a houseboat vacation on Lake Mead can be an amazing experience.
Before booking a houseboat, be sure to research the costs, where to stay, and any must-see attractions.
With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to make the most of your houseboating experience on Lake Mead.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your adventure today!