Top Nevada Lakes and Rivers to Explore This Summer

Pyramid Lake | Manny Becerra

Numerous bodies of water in Nevada are excellent destinations for fishing, boating, and waterfront rest and relaxation. Let’s look at some of Nevada’s most appealing lakes and rivers.

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe, a large body of water on Nevada’s border with California, is one of California’s most popular tourist destinations. Lake Tahoe is known for its deep blue water and incredible Sierra Nevada mountain views. Boaters and water sports enthusiasts frequent the lake, and many excellent resorts and campsites line the water.

Lake Tahoe | sharon wright

Humboldt River

The Humboldt River is the only river system wholly contained within Nevada. The 290-mile Humboldt River is an extremely enjoyable site for anglers to visit. The river hosts catfish, bass, and perch. 

Lake Mead

Lake Mead is a massive reservoir that serves as an oasis near Las Vegas in Nevada’s weathered desert. Many go to its shores to enjoy boating, swimming, and water sports, and there is an abundance of bass, catfish, and bluegill to haul in for avid anglers.

Lake Mead | Thomas Haas

Walker Lake

Walker Lake, in western Nevada, is a popular recreation destination. Although its water levels have been declining, the lake still has plenty to offer, including sandy beaches, where visitors gather on warm summer days, and many campsites near the water’s shores. The dry and rocky landscape surrounding Walker Lake is a picturesque place to be immersed in Nevada’s nature.

Pyramid Lake

Pyramid Lake is widely considered one of the most stunning desert lakes in the U.S. This massive lake, covering over 125,000 acres near Reno, is a remnant of an ancient sea that once stretched across much of Nevada. The lake is the only known body of water home to a population of cui-ui fish, which are protected under the Endangered Species Act. 

Pyramid Lake | Jeremy Stewart

Lake Mohave

Lake Mohave, an expansive reservoir of the Colorado River, brings in visitors intending to scuba dive, boat, and participate in water sports. Those who want to stay overnight in the area’s unique desert setting can stay at one of the campsites near the lake. 

Colorado River

The massive Colorado River is an important waterway that carves through much of Nevada toward Mexico. People especially enjoy white water rafting on the river, where powerful rapids create an adrenaline-inducing experience.

Colorado River | BKN Photography