Trout Cove

Overview

Trout Cove is a small, undeveloped inlet on the Nevada side of Lake Mohave—part of the larger Lake Mead National Recreation Area. It’s a low‑key spot: sandy shoreline, clear water, big‑sky desert scenery, and not much else. That’s the charm if you’re after a quiet beachy nook away from marina buzz.

Location & Access

Official maps place Trout Cove on Lake Mohave’s west shore, just north of Nevada Telephone Cove near Laughlin. There’s no signed parking or built facilities at Trout Cove itself. Most visitors either paddle or motor in, or they stage from developed access points and walk the shoreline.

• Easiest approach: Drive to Nevada Telephone Cove (off NV‑163, then Lake Mead Road #9). The last ~4 miles are graded dirt and typically fine for 2WD. From the beach, it’s a short paddle or motor north into Trout Cove.
• By boat: Launch from Katherine Landing (AZ) or Cottonwood Cove (NV) if you’re already on the lake and want a mellow pull‑in cove. Always check current NPS conditions for any road or ramp changes before you commit.

What You’ll See

Expect broad, sandy strands and gently shelving water framed by classic Mojave Desert hills. It’s peaceful and feels off‑the‑radar compared to the busier hubs. There are no picnic tables, grills, or potable water here—just you, the shore, and the lake.

On the Water

Inside the cove you’ll generally find calmer, no‑wake‑style water that’s friendly to kayaks, canoes, and SUPs. Do note that winds often pick up in the afternoon, kicking up chop outside the protection of the cove—plan your paddles early or late for glassier conditions.

Fishing & Wildlife

Lake Mohave holds striped, largemouth, and smallmouth bass, plus catfish, crappie, and sunfish. Despite the name, “Trout Cove” doesn’t imply trout stocking here—the rainbow trout fishery is more associated with the Black Canyon/Willow Beach reach. Along the shore, keep an eye out for roadrunners and Gambel’s quail, and if you’re lucky, a desert tortoise. Give all wildlife plenty of space.

A Note on the Landscape

Shorelines around Lakes Mead and Mohave cut through a geologic sampler—ancient schist and gneiss, younger marine limestones and shales, and Miocene volcanics—shaped by basin‑and‑range faulting. You can literally read time in the bluffs as you paddle by.

Best Time to Visit

Mornings are best for smooth water, cooler temps, and softer photography light. Spring and fall usually deliver the most comfortable air temps. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends. In summer, arrive early or aim for evening to dodge peak heat.

Know Before You Go

There are no amenities at Trout Cove. The nearest vault toilets are at Nevada Telephone Cove; full services live at Cottonwood Cove and Katherine Landing. Bring all the water you’ll need, shade, and a way to pack out trash. If you’re day‑using the beach away from restrooms, carry a WAG bag. Check NPS current conditions before traveling, and remember to Clean, Drain, Dry boats and gear to prevent invasive species spread.