Willow Beach Marina Black Canyon
A stunning oasis an hour from Vegas, offering cool river adventures, camping, and access to the magical Emerald Cave.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Willow Beach Marina Black Canyon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning oasis an hour from Vegas, offering cool river adventures, camping, and access to the magical Emerald Cave.
"Awesome spot to hit the water and escape the Vegas heat!"
🚗 Vehicle Entry Fee
Expect a $25 entry fee per vehicle. Consider a yearly pass if you plan multiple visits!
🥶 Cold Water Alert!
The Colorado River water is a chilly 58°F year-round. Great for cooling off, but be prepared!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Emerald Cave Paddle
Colorado River, upstream from Willow Beach Marina
Kayak or paddleboard to a hidden cove with stunning, glowing green water. A truly magical experience!
Black Canyon Water Trail
Colorado River
Explore the dramatic Black Canyon by kayak or boat, discovering hidden caves and historic sites.
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Willow Beach Marina Campground
Willow Beach, AZ
Enjoy camping right on the Colorado River with beautiful views and easy access to water activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat: Timing is Everything
Emerald Cave Kayak Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Vehicle Entry Fee
Expect a $25 entry fee per vehicle. Consider a yearly pass if you plan multiple visits!
🥶 Cold Water Alert!
The Colorado River water is a chilly 58°F year-round. Great for cooling off, but be prepared!
🛶 Kayak to Emerald Cave
It's about a 2-mile paddle upstream from the marina. Allow 3-4 hours for the round trip.
🐐 Spot Mountain Goats
Keep an eye on the cliffs; you might spot some majestic mountain goats!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Vehicle Entry Fee
Expect a $25 entry fee per vehicle. Consider a yearly pass if you plan multiple visits!
🥶 Cold Water Alert!
The Colorado River water is a chilly 58°F year-round. Great for cooling off, but be prepared!
🛶 Kayak to Emerald Cave
It's about a 2-mile paddle upstream from the marina. Allow 3-4 hours for the round trip.
🐐 Spot Mountain Goats
Keep an eye on the cliffs; you might spot some majestic mountain goats!
🎣 Fishing Fun (Weekends Tough)
Fishing is popular, but weekends can be noisy with boaters. Weekdays might be better for a quiet catch.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Willow Beach Marina is a highly-rated escape from the Las Vegas heat, praised for its refreshing Colorado River waters and scenic beauty. Visitors love the kayaking opportunities to Emerald Cave, the well-maintained campground, and the chance to spot wildlife. Some find fishing challenging on busy weekends, and the cold water can be a surprise for the unprepared.
"This is an awesome spot just about 1.5 hours outside of Vegas if you’re looking to hit the water! I usually launch my paddle boards here and head toward the Hoover Dam. You do have to pay a fee to get in, but if you plan on coming more than once it’s more cost efficient to buy a yearly pass!
Along the way, you’ll pass the historic ruins of a house, complete with a plaque detailing its history. You can still see the pulleys, wooden walkways along the rocks, and a watchtower. Fun fact: this was the original site planned for the Hoover Dam, but it was moved upstream due to a visible fault line!
Emerald Cave is about an hour paddle upstream, and the water inside is absolutely beautiful (check out the video I attached for @trashclvss). Across the river, there’s also Echo Cave, which is worth exploring.
There are plenty of spots to pull off and hang out, plus lots of rocks to jump from! Keep in mind, the water is always cold, but after a few jumps in and out, your body adjusts. Be sure to look at the mountains, there are frequently mountain goats there!! It’s always such a fun adventure exploring the Colorado River!"
Vee
"Great place to go for the day if you want to get out of the heat. Water stays about 58. Nothing feels better when it’s 110 outside.
Easy to launch a boat. Easy parking, there is a marina store if you forget something, camp ground with bbq pits, kayak and paddle boards and you can board up to pirates cove."
Amber Day
"You truly will be thankful if you stay here. Well maintained. Colorado River nearby to enjoy. Boats and kayak rentals. Store on site. Cafe on the property. Very beautiful part of Arizona."
Robert Alan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Willow Beach Marina is conveniently located about an hour's drive from the Las Vegas Strip, making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway. +1
Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach Willow Beach Marina. There is ample parking available for vehicles and trailers.
Public transportation options are very limited for reaching Willow Beach Marina from Las Vegas. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle or arrange for a ride-sharing service.
Yes, Willow Beach Marina has a boat launch, making it easy to get your powerboat or personal watercraft onto the Colorado River.
Willow Beach Marina offers RV camping spots and easy access for RVs, with plenty of parking available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a vehicle entry fee of $25 per car. If you plan to visit frequently, consider purchasing a yearly pass for cost savings.
Reservations are generally not required for day use, but it's advisable to check the official website or call ahead, especially during peak seasons or holidays. Camping spots may require advance booking.
The marina typically operates during daylight hours, but specific hours for the store, cafe, and facilities can vary. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at Willow Beach Marina, making it easy to explore the Colorado River and Emerald Cave.
Guided kayak tours are available from Willow Beach Marina, offering a convenient way to experience the Black Canyon and Emerald Cave.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, boating, fishing, camping, and exploring the scenic Black Canyon.
The paddle to Emerald Cave from Willow Beach Marina is approximately 1.5 to 2 miles each way, taking about 1-2 hours round trip, not including time spent at the cave.
The water is generally safe for swimming, but it is very cold (around 58°F). Be mindful of boat traffic and currents.
Yes, Willow Beach Marina offers clean restrooms and showers, which are well-maintained.
Keep an eye out for mountain goats on the cliffs and various bird species. The river ecosystem supports diverse wildlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on the property that offers food and drinks, and a marina store where you can purchase snacks and forgotten essentials.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, especially if you plan to camp or spend a full day enjoying the activities. There are BBQ pits available for campers.
While not explicitly designated picnic areas, there are many spots along the shoreline and at the campground where you can set up for a picnic.
The cafe typically offers casual fare suitable for a marina setting, such as sandwiches, snacks, and beverages.
Alcohol policies can vary. It's best to check with the marina directly or adhere to posted regulations regarding alcohol consumption, especially in public areas and the campground.
📸 📸 Photography
The Emerald Cave with its vibrant green water is a prime photo spot. The dramatic cliffs of Black Canyon and the historic ruins also offer stunning photographic subjects.
Mid-morning to early afternoon often provides the best light to capture the vibrant emerald color of the cave. The water's glow is truly spectacular.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive canyon views. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable due to water activities.
Drone usage is often restricted in national recreation areas and near sensitive wildlife habitats. Check with the National Park Service or marina management for current regulations.
Yes, the historic ruins along the river are fascinating to photograph. They offer a glimpse into the area's past and the original Hoover Dam plans.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as options can be limited, and consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds. 💰 Budget Travelers
Bringing your own food and drinks will significantly cut down on expenses, as on-site dining can add up. 💑 Couples & Adventure Seekers
The stunning scenery and the shared experience of paddling through the Black Canyon create lasting memories. Consider a guided tour for a more relaxed yet informative adventure. Camping at the marina offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful riverfront views, perfect for a romantic getaway. For the truly adventurous, exploring further up the Black Canyon Water Trail or even attempting longer paddles can provide a thrilling challenge. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Kayaking to Emerald Cave: A Traveler's Guide
The water color is famously vibrant, a striking emerald green that truly lives up to its name, especially when sunlight hits it just right. Many visitors rent kayaks or paddleboards directly from the marina, which is convenient. While the paddle from Willow Beach is the most direct route, some adventurous kayakers opt for longer trips, even launching from below Hoover Dam.
+1 Regardless of your starting point, the Black Canyon offers dramatic scenery with towering cliffs and hidden alcoves. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including mountain goats on the rocky slopes. Pro-Tip: While the water is cold, the effort of paddling in the desert sun makes that cool dip incredibly rewarding. Pack waterproof bags for your essentials and enjoy the stunning natural wonder.
Camping and Recreation at Willow Beach Marina
Visitors often praise the well-maintained facilities, including clean restrooms and showers, and the presence of staff who keep the grounds tidy. Beyond camping, the marina is a hub for boating, fishing, and swimming. The boat launch is easy to use, and the marina store is handy for any forgotten supplies.
Exploring the Black Canyon's History
Exploring these ruins offers a tangible connection to the past and the ambitious engineering feats of the early 20th century.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit