Hemenway Harbor
Gateway to Lake Mead, offering boating, fishing, and nearby bighorn sheep sightings. Adapting to changing water levels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier launch
Hemenway Harbor
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier launch
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gateway to Lake Mead, offering boating, fishing, and nearby bighorn sheep sightings. Adapting to changing water levels.
"It's a good ramp with great access to Lake Mead, just expect a little chaos during the busier hours."
🎯 Arrive Early for Launch
Beat the weekend rush! Arrive early to avoid long waits at the Hemenway Harbor launch ramp. :car:
🐏 Respect Wildlife
See bighorn sheep at nearby Hemenway Park, but keep a safe distance and never feed them. :deer:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Mead Access
Hemenway Harbor
Launch your boat or kayak onto the vast expanse of Lake Mead for a day of water activities.
Bighorn Sheep Sightings
Hemenway Park (nearby)
Spot Nevada's state animal, the bighorn sheep, grazing peacefully in the nearby Hemenway Park.
Scenic Colorado River Views
Hemenway Harbor
Enjoy stunning desert mountain vistas and the unique beauty of the Colorado River.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Hemenway Harbor
Navigating Lake Mead's Water Levels
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Launch
Beat the weekend rush! Arrive early to avoid long waits at the Hemenway Harbor launch ramp. :car:
🐏 Respect Wildlife
See bighorn sheep at nearby Hemenway Park, but keep a safe distance and never feed them. :deer:
📏 Check Water Depths
Be mindful of shallow areas due to low water levels. Back your truck in carefully. :fishingpoleand_line:
🛠️ Ramp Improvements
Recent upgrades are improving access, but construction can cause temporary closures. :construction: 
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Launch
Beat the weekend rush! Arrive early to avoid long waits at the Hemenway Harbor launch ramp. :car:
🐏 Respect Wildlife
See bighorn sheep at nearby Hemenway Park, but keep a safe distance and never feed them. :deer:
📏 Check Water Depths
Be mindful of shallow areas due to low water levels. Back your truck in carefully. :fishingpoleand_line:
🛠️ Ramp Improvements
Recent upgrades are improving access, but construction can cause temporary closures. :construction:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Nevada's desert climate is hot. Stay hydrated, especially during summer months. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hemenway Harbor is a functional launch ramp for Lake Mead, appreciated for its access to the water and recent improvements addressing lower water levels. While it can get very busy, leading to waits, and the ramp's gradual slope requires careful maneuvering, the overall experience is positive, with many praising the helpful community and scenic beauty. +1
"Hemenway Harbor Launch Ramp is a solid spot to get out on the water, but it definitely gets busy during peak times, especially on weekends or holidays. There can be a bit of a wait depending on when you show up, so it’s best to plan ahead if you want a smoother launch. That said, I’ve noticed they’ve made some recent improvements, especially with how they’ve adjusted things to deal with the lower water levels. It seems more organized than it used to be, and the added effort helps keep things running better even when it’s crowded. Overall, it’s a good ramp with great access to Lake Mead, just expect a little chaos during the busier hours.
photo from 2022"
Cole Nisson
"Down to 1-2 lanes right now while under construction. It’s more the inexperienced other boaters than it is the ramp tho."
Mikey Tantalo
"I met a lot of wonderful people here. I can't wait to get the boat in the water again! Thank you to Donny for saving our butt. He noticed we were sinking as we were about to exit the harbor. He really saved us!"
Robert M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hemenway Harbor is located in Boulder City, Nevada, about a 45-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip. Take US-93 S towards Boulder City and follow signs for Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly, especially on busy days. Arriving early is recommended.
Hemenway Harbor is within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, so an entrance fee is typically required. Check the NPS website for current fees and passes.
Hemenway Park is a separate, nearby location in Boulder City, often mentioned for bighorn sheep sightings. It's easily accessible from the main roads in Boulder City. +1
Public transportation options to Hemenway Harbor are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Hemenway Harbor is part of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, which requires an entrance fee or a valid pass. Check the official NPS website for the most up-to-date information on fees and passes.
Hemenway Harbor is generally open year-round during daylight hours. However, specific facilities like the launch ramp may have temporary closures for maintenance or due to water levels.
The National Park Service offers various passes, including annual passes and passes for seniors and military personnel. Check the NPS website for eligibility and details.
Currently, there is no system for booking specific time slots for the launch ramp. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is key.
The launch ramp has undergone improvements to adapt to lower water levels. It can be busy and may experience temporary closures for maintenance.
🎫 🎣 Onsite Experience
Hemenway Harbor is a popular spot for boating, kayaking, fishing (stripers and catfish are common), and enjoying the scenic views of Lake Mead.
Yes, anglers report good success for stripers and catfish at Hemenway Harbor. Remember to check local fishing regulations.
Facilities are limited compared to what Lake Mead used to offer, but there is a launch ramp and some docking areas. Restrooms may be available.
While swimming is generally allowed in Lake Mead, designated swimming areas may vary. It's always best to check with the National Park Service for specific advisories.
The no wake zone buoys have been expanded out to the Boulder Islands. Boaters should exercise extra care and adhere to these zones for safety.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the lake, mountains, and boats. The nearby Hemenway Park offers chances to photograph bighorn sheep in their natural habitat. +1
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for photography. Early mornings can also provide serene, less crowded shots.
Drone usage is subject to National Park Service regulations. Check the NPS website for current rules and restrictions regarding drone operation within Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
The expansive views of Lake Mead from the harbor itself are iconic. The nearby Hoover Dam also offers impressive photographic potential.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. If you're hoping to photograph wildlife, a telephoto lens would be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
A short drive to Hemenway Park provides a chance to spot bighorn sheep, which is always a hit with children. 🎣 Anglers and Boaters
Boaters will appreciate the launch ramp, though awareness of the gradual slope and potential for longer waits during peak times is crucial. 🏞️ Nature Lovers and Photographers
The golden hour light in the late afternoon is particularly beautiful for photography. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Lake Mead's Water Levels
+1This situation has also led to some facilities that were once available being less accessible or even closed. Despite these challenges, Hemenway Harbor remains a vital access point for many enjoying the lake. The National Park Service is continually working to manage the situation, and visitors are advised to check their official website for the latest updates on water levels and any potential impacts on access and facilities.
For those planning a visit, it's wise to have a backup plan or be prepared for potential delays. Understanding that the lake's conditions are dynamic will help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
Wildlife Encounters: Bighorn Sheep
It's important to remember that these are wild animals, and visitors must maintain a respectful distance. The National Park Service and local guides strongly advise against feeding the sheep, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors and diets, and can also be dangerous for both the animals and humans.
While Hemenway Harbor is primarily for water activities, a short detour to Hemenway Park provides a chance for a different kind of exploration. It’s a reminder of the diverse natural beauty surrounding Lake Mead and a highlight for many visitors seeking a connection with the local fauna.
Fishing and Boating at Hemenway Harbor
+1 The harbor offers a gateway to the vastness of Lake Mead, with opportunities to discover hidden coves and enjoy the desert landscape from a unique perspective. Fishing is a popular pastime here, with anglers frequently reporting success in catching stripers and catfish.
It’s advisable to be aware of local fishing regulations and to check for any advisories issued by the National Park Service. The expanded no wake zone out to the Boulder Islands means boaters need to be particularly mindful of speed and proximity to other vessels. While the harbor's facilities are more limited than in the past due to water level changes, it remains a functional and popular spot for water sports enthusiasts. The community spirit is evident, with stories of fellow boaters helping each other out, highlighting the camaraderie among those who frequent the harbor.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit