Government Wash Campground Lake Mead National Recreation Area Nevada

Government Wash Overview

Government Wash Campground (renovated and reopened in 2026) offers 51 first-come, first-served (free) campsites next to a beautiful protected cove in Lake Mead.

The 51 defined/primitive campsites have gravel parking spurs, a table, fire ring and grill. Some campsites are next to the water (depending on the lake level).

The campground is open year-round and has a 28 day stay limit. Amenities include new gravel roads and vault toilets.  Trash collection is not provided so please pack everything in and out.  Potable (drinking) water is also not available. You can also purchase firewood from the camp host. Cell service is fair.

Government Wash Campground – Area Recreation & Activities

The cove offers some excellent fishing, boating, kayaking, paddle-boarding and other water sports. Other popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, picnicking, stargazing and wildlife viewing.

You might also like Las Vegas Bay Campground (about 10 miles away).

Amenities

• Campground Host
• Campsite Tables
• Cell Service Fair
• Fire Pit
• Fire Rings
• Firewood Available
• Grills
• Overflow Parking
• Pets OK

Activities

• Biking
• Bird Watching
• Boating
• Canoeing
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Horseback riding
• Kayaking
• Mountain Biking
• Paddle boarding (SUP)
• Photography
• Picnicking
• Sailboarding
• Sailing
• Skin Diving
• Stargazing
• Swimming
• Wake Boarding
• Water Skiing
• Water Sports
• Wildlife Viewing