I recently dialed up an early-November weekend camping trip from Las Vegas. Telephone Cove at Lake Mohave answered the call.
The bold blues of the Colorado River were bright, the blazing heat of the summer had subsided to comfortable autumn warmth, and low water levels made the beach twice as big.
Telephone Cove is on the Nevada side of Lake Mohave near Laughlin and Bullhead City. It only takes about 20 minutes to drive into Laughlin for services, food, or casinos. From Las Vegas it takes 90 minutes to drive.
The unpaved road to the beach from Highway 163 is maintained and drivable for any vehicle. Large trailers are a common sight.
Once there, the natural desert surroundings are fantastic. The blue water and sandy beach are surrounded by barren desert hills and large rocky buttes. A row of mature leafy trees throws shade on many of the campsites. And there’s plenty to do. People there will be boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, or just hanging out at their beach camps.
Be aware that Telephone Cove is a primitive camping area inside of Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Camping is free of charge but facilities are limited. While there are several vault toilets for use, there are no trash receptacles, no picnic tables, no shade pavilions, and no running water. Cell service is limited.
