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Lake Mead NRA/Temple Bar
Overview
Lake Mead NRA/Temple Bar offers a secluded desert retreat on the Arizona side of one of the nation's most iconic reservoirs. Unlike the busier sections near the dam, this area provides a tranquil atmosphere where the vastness of the Mojave Desert meets the deep blue of the water. Managed as part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, the park serves as a gateway to the massive Virgin Basin. It is a place where travelers can trade city lights for a canopy of brilliant stars and enjoy a slow-paced lifestyle centered around the water.
Location & Surroundings
Tucked away at the end of a scenic 27-mile road off Highway 93, the location is intentionally remote. The surrounding landscape is defined by vibrant desert mesas and rugged mountain peaks that change colors with the shifting sun. Because of its distance from major hubs, the area remains relatively quiet, providing a true sense of isolation. Visitors will find themselves surrounded by the unique flora of the Southwest, with the shimmering lake providing a sharp, beautiful contrast to the arid terrain.
Amenities & Park Features
The park caters to self-contained travelers by offering full hookup RV sites through the marina concessionaire. These sites provide essential utilities in an otherwise rugged environment. The facility features a launching ramp for easy water access, a small convenience store for basic supplies, and a fuel dock. While the setup is more functional than a luxury resort, the availability of laundry facilities and proximity to the water ensures that guests have the comforts needed for an extended stay in the desert.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Water activities are the primary draw here, with boating and fishing topping the list for most visitors. The Virgin Basin is known for its excellent striped bass and largemouth bass fishing. Those with kayaks or paddleboards can explore hidden coves and quiet shorelines that are inaccessible by land. On shore, hikers can traverse local desert trails to find panoramic viewpoints of the lake. The lack of light pollution also makes this one of the best spots in the region for stargazing and astrophotography.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for avid anglers and boaters who want to spend every day on the water without the crowds found elsewhere on Lake Mead. It is also a perfect fit for boondockers and minimalist RVers who appreciate a quiet, rustic environment over high-end resort amenities. If you are looking to disconnect from the digital world and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Arizona desert, Temple Bar offers the perfect sanctuary for your next road trip.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
George Cooper
Very friendly staff. They'll go out of the way to accommodate you.
aaron smith
I wasn't expecting much and boy was I disappointed.. The rooms have not been updated since 1950 there is no reason why those motel rooms do not have at least queens and not king beds they have double beds who the hell sleeps in a double?? Spend a little money fix up the hotel room the AC unit and Room 214 sounded like a 2 cycle motorcycle starting up and getting louder as it got later in the day now let's talk about the exhaust fan I've heard diesel motors that are quieter Let's talk about breakfast Friday should have white outers not brown because they were overcooked bacon a nice brown color not black with black oil dripping off of them Whoever is managing this place should be ashamed of themselves it is disgusting. Oh how could I forget about the in room pet 2 giant cockroaches almost 2 inches a piece you know it's bad when they have a fly swatter in your room. During the morning we could see sunlight coming through the one inch gap on the bottom of the door. Spend 3 grand a month and fix one room at a time Queen beds at a minimum new AC units You guys have to do updating.. Boat launches what to be expected they can't control the water so that was adequate I appreciate that but the rooms and food are sub par I've been in the jungles of Belize and had better rooms and better service
stan magner
Awesome to stay a nite or 2. Then launch 6 mins. Later into lake mead. Thank God for the water from the rains. Brought mead up to be able to launch on a matt at temple bar and fish like the old days. Was blessed to Go with a friend for two days
Thomas Bentz
This area is still great for fishing for largemouth and striped bass. The launch and amenities are far less than in years past. It is part of the Lake Mead/ Lake Mojave recreational area, so there are fees associated with its use. There were no people using any of it while we were visiting, and the severe low water levels are certainly impacting the entire area. There was still wildlife about and many species of birds for bird watching. Bring your own supplies when visiting.
Kristi grizzle
As a kid my family and I spent our summers here. We had a trailer in the park. It always has been and still is amazingly beautiful! Staff was so welcoming and friendly! Our kitchenette room was perfect, clean , stocked with plates and cookware. We took our dogs and hiked all around, found some beautiful rocks. We went late December and the weather was perfect! The water is very low, but has risen a bit in the last couple years. I just love the views.