Cottonwood Cove Boat Launch

Full-service launch with rentals, fuel, and easy Lake Mohave access

InsideLake Mead National Recreation Area

Overview

This is the workhorse launch on Lake Mohave’s Nevada side—straightforward, well-situated, and built for getting you on the water fast. The National Park Service lists the ramp as operable (last update October 10, 2024), and the adjoining marina means you can top off fuel, grab supplies, or even rent a boat without leaving the cove.

What You’ll Find

Concrete launch ramp with docks/pier and a designated small‑craft area for canoes and kayaks.
Diesel and unleaded fuel, a marina store, restrooms, trash dumpsters, and dedicated auto/boat‑trailer parking.
A sandy beach adjacent to the launch area that’s popular for day use.

On‑Water Tips & Safety

NPS reminds boaters that launching is at your own risk—watch for changing weather, be patient with ramp queues, and know the rules: everyone towed behind a boat and all PWC riders must wear life jackets, and kids under 13 must wear one while underway unless they’re inside an enclosed cabin. Expect wait times on busy weekends and during events.

The Setting

The drive drops dramatically into the cove—classic Mojave Desert scenery with low elevation and serious heat in late spring through early fall. Plan shade and hydration accordingly. From here you can explore narrow riverine stretches as well as the broader expanses of Lake Mohave.

Wildlife

Around Cottonwood Cove you might spot jackrabbits darting between creosote, ducks and other water birds along the shoreline, and songbirds flitting through the cacti. Coyotes often sing after dark.

Nearby Conveniences

The broader Cottonwood Cove area packs in a full‑service marina, rentals (including houseboats), a motel, RV sites, additional camping, picnic tables with grills, and a café/store. Cell coverage at the campground is hit‑or‑miss, but a stronger signal and fee‑based Wi‑Fi are available closer to the marina.

Best Time to Visit

Aim for early morning or late afternoon for cooler temps, softer light, and easier parking. Weekdays are noticeably calmer than weekends and holiday periods when the beach and ramp get crowded. Before you go, check the park’s Alerts & Conditions for any ramp or area changes.

Pros

Full-service marina with rentals and fuel steps from the ramp
Auto and trailer parking plus restrooms and trash on-site
Small-craft launch for canoes and kayaks

Cons

Expect ramp wait times and a busy day-use beach at peaks
Cell service is spotty; reliable signal and Wi‑Fi mostly near the marina

Tips

Check the park’s Alerts & Conditions page for current ramp status before driving out.
Arrive early on weekends and holidays to avoid ramp queues and secure trailer parking.
Bring shade and extra water—heat is intense from late spring through early fall.
If you need connectivity, head toward the marina for stronger signal or paid Wi‑Fi.
Dogs may be restricted on the main beach by the campground—confirm rules before you go.