Cottonwood Cove RV Park

Full-hookup RV base steps from the marina and sandy cove
Cottonwood Cove RV Park, Lake Mead National Recreation Area
InsideLake Mead National Recreation Area

Overview

This is the RV park at Cottonwood Cove on Lake Mohave—a practical, lake-first base with hookups and easy access to the marina. Think convenience over seclusion: you’re here to launch, paddle, swim, or fish without a long drive between camp and water.

What You’ll Find

Pads are laid out near the resort area with utility connections and quick walks to the marina’s services (market, fuel, café, rentals, motel). Expect a compact layout with limited privacy and shade. If you’re picturing sprawling desert sites, adjust expectations—this is about being right by the water and facilities.

Note: There’s also a separate “Lower Campground” nearby that’s dry camping (no hookups). If you want hookups, you want the RV park.

Lake Access & Activities

The sandy cove makes quick dips easy, and the marina puts boating, paddleboards, and other rentals within reach. It’s a popular day‑use zone, so crowds and occasional litter show up at times, but evenings tend to mellow out with big desert skies and excellent stargazing.

Practicalities

  • Hookups available; an on‑site dump station serves the area (call ahead if you’re particular—it has had occasional service hiccups).
  • Cell service can be weak around the cove; reception is typically better right by the marina. Paid Wi‑Fi may be offered through the marina operator.
  • Dogs have restrictions at the designated swimming beach; plan early/late swims or use other nearby coves.
  • Entrance fees for Lake Mead NRA still apply, and management/reservation details changed around early 2024—verify the current process and pricing before you roll in.

Wildlife

You’re likely to spot desert jackrabbits cruising the fringes at dawn and dusk, with ducks and songbirds working the shoreline. Keep food buttoned up—this is classic Mojave desert country.

Best Time to Visit

October–April is the sweet spot: cooler temps, nicer camping weather, and calmer vibes. In summer, heat is severe and shade is minimal. For quieter shore time, aim for weekdays and be on the beach at sunrise or near sunset; midday brings harsher light and more day‑use traffic.

Pros

  • Full hookups steps from the marina, store, café, and rentals
  • Short walk to a sandy cove on clear Lake Mohave

Cons

  • Sites are narrow and close together; big rigs may feel tight
  • Little natural shade and intense summer heat

Tips

  • Plan for October–April if you can; summers are brutally hot with little shade.
  • Confirm current reservation system, fees, and dump‑station status—policies shifted in 2024.
  • Bring a shade canopy and leveling blocks; wind and uneven pads are common.
  • Expect spotty cell service; download maps and walk to the marina for a better signal.
  • Dogs aren’t allowed in the designated swim beach—go early/late or use nearby coves.
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