Katherine Landing Picnic Area

Shady lakeside picnic spot with easy trails to sandy coves

InsideLake Mead National Recreation Area

Overview

This is the easygoing day‑use hub at Katherine Landing on Lake Mohave—tables, grills, and lake views without the fuss. It sits minutes from Laughlin, NV and Bullhead City, AZ, so it’s a convenient spot to spread out lunch before or after time on the water.

What You’ll Find

Expect picnic tables and grills with some shade and quick access to the shoreline. Restrooms are available in the Katherine Landing complex, and food/supplies are close by at the marina café and store. You’ll also find launch ramps, boat and equipment rentals, fuel on land and water, a fishing pier, and a fish‑cleaning station at the top of the launch ramp.

Trails From the Picnic Area

Lake View Trail: A moderate 4.7‑mile round trip starting from the picnic area. It undulates over uneven desert terrain to sandy coves like South Arizona Telephone Cove—great for beachy breaks.
Fisherman’s Trail: Under a mile to Turkey Cove. It’s the quick win—minimal elevation, and the cove is shallow and protected, ideal for a cooling swim and a quiet picnic.

Fishing & Coves

Lake Mohave is a year‑round fishery, and shore access from nearby coves makes casual casting easy. If you’re planning a full fishing day, the marina store stocks bait and tackle, and the fish‑cleaning station streamlines the endgame.

Practicalities

First‑come, first‑served—no reservations for the picnic area.
Pets are allowed on leash (6 ft max); don’t leave them unattended and pack out waste.
You’re inside a fee area; keep your pass or proof of admission in your vehicle.
Open year‑round, but plan for extremes: heat and sun exposure are real here.

Best Time to Visit

In warm months, aim for early morning or late afternoon for cooler temps and softer light. Midday can be toasty and busier. Shoulder seasons are comfortable most of the day; winter brings crisp air and quieter vibes.

What to Bring

Plenty of drinking water, serious sun protection (hat, UPF layers, sunscreen), charcoal if you plan to grill, and trash bags so you can pack out what you pack in.

Etiquette & Wildlife

Stay on established trails, secure food from wind, and give desert wildlife space. Keep the shoreline and coves clean so everyone enjoys the same clear water and quiet corners.

Pros

Shaded picnic sites with grills near the lake
Two trails start here, including an easy walk to a protected cove

Cons

Desert heat and sun exposure can be intense most of the year
Within a park fee area

Tips

Bring plenty of drinking water—don’t count on finding taps at the tables.
Time your picnic for early or late in the day to beat the heat.
No reservations here; arrive with a backup plan on busy weekends.
If you plan to grill, bring charcoal—the marina store sells supplies if you forget.
Leash pets (6 ft max) and pack out all waste, including food scraps.