Placer Cove Primitive Camping Area

Quiet cove for hand-launches; no camping, no amenities
Placer Cove Primitive Camping Area, Lake Mead National Recreation Area
InsideLake Mead National Recreation Area

Overview

Placer Cove is a simple, protected inlet on the Lake Mohave side—great for a quiet shoreline stop and a quick hand‑launch for small boats or paddle craft. Despite the name you may see floating around, this is not a camping area; it’s a low‑key access cove with no facilities and clear rules against overnighting.

Getting There

Reach it via NV‑165, then follow roughly 1 mile of dirt on Lake Mead Road #47 to the cove. There’s no ramp; launches are straight from the shoreline.

What to Expect

No developed amenities are provided here—no restrooms, no potable water, and no trash service. Plan to be fully self‑sufficient and pack out everything you bring. The appeal is the quiet water and easy hand‑launch rather than a day‑use beach or developed picnic spot.

Rules You Should Know

  • Camping and overnight stays are not allowed here.
  • Alcohol possession/consumption is prohibited at Placer Cove.
  • Pack‑in/pack‑out only; no services are provided.

Good Alternatives if You Want to Camp

If your goal is lakeside primitive camping, pick designated/allowed spots instead. Nevada Telephone Cove and Six Mile Cove are shoreline options (primitive), and Stewart’s Point offers dispersed lakeside camping on the Lake Mead side. Developed campgrounds are available around the recreation area if you want restrooms and water.

Best Time to Visit

Since it’s day‑use only with no facilities, treat Placer Cove as a quick daytime launch or mellow shoreline stop. For current conditions or any temporary changes, check with the Lake Mead Visitor Center before you go.

Pros

  • Protected shoreline cove
  • Easy hand-launch for small boats and paddle craft

Cons

  • No amenities (no toilets, water, or trash service)
  • No camping or overnight parking allowed
  • Alcohol is prohibited

Tips

  • Do not camp or stay overnight—signage and rules prohibit it.
  • Bring all water and pack out all trash; there are no services.
  • Alcohol is not allowed at this cove.
  • The final approach is a short dirt spur—take it slow and watch clearance.
  • For shoreline camping, consider Nevada Telephone Cove or Six Mile Cove instead.
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