Davis Dam
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Davis Dam

4.6
·491k reviews·Bullhead City, United States

A monumental hydroelectric dam on the Colorado River, creating Lake Mohave for recreation and power generation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temperatures for outdoor fun

CrowdLow
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Davis Dam

Davis Dam

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temperatures for outdoor fun

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A monumental hydroelectric dam on the Colorado River, creating Lake Mohave for recreation and power generation.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Witness the immense power of the Colorado River and enjoy vast recreational opportunities at Lake Mohave."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack for the Heat! :sun_with_face:

Arizona summers are intense. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats for any outdoor activity. :iphone:

Tent Camping Rules :tent:

Tents are permitted, but not in RV sites or next to vacation homes. Check specific placement guidelines. :R2:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Davis Dam Powerhouse

Davis Dam Powerhouse

Davis Dam

Witness the immense scale of hydroelectric power generation. Each generator releases millions of gallons of water per second!

Lake Mohave Boating

Lake Mohave Boating

Lake Mohave

Enjoy standby boating on the vast expanse of Lake Mohave, perfect for a day on the water with friends and family.

River Walk Trail

River Walk Trail

Davis Dam Recreation Area

Scenic trails for hiking and biking with breathtaking views of the Colorado River and surrounding desert landscape.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Davis Dam

Beat the crowds and the heat! Summer months can be scorching hot, making early mornings or late afternoons ideal for outdoor activities. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid weekend rushes, especially if you're planning water sports or hiking.

Recreation Area Essentials

Davis Dam offers a fantastic recreation area with opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. Pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. Remember that while tents are allowed, they have specific placement rules, so check regulations before setting up camp.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant temperatures for outdoor fun
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Summer early mornings
Why
Escape the intense heat
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🙌🏼🙌🏼#arizona#laughlin#bullhead#FBcounty#proclub#shaka
@kartel.clothing
967 likes • 17.5K views

Pack for the Heat! :sun_with_face:

Arizona summers are intense. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats for any outdoor activity. :iphone:

Tent Camping Rules :tent:

Tents are permitted, but not in RV sites or next to vacation homes. Check specific placement guidelines. :R2:

Replying to @swagaapina no food n’ drinx restrictions!! tents are good, but not in RV sites or next to vacation homes!! we were on the left side of the park, btw 🤗#daviscamp #bullhead #laughlin #nevada #arizona #vegas #lasvegas #laughlinnevada #nevadacheck #arizonacheck #travel #traveltips #traveltiktok #traveltok #travelbucketlist #travelhacks #roadtrip #weekend #Summer #coldswimming #swim #summe...
@traveling.ukelele
807 likes • 56.6K views
Mind. Blown. 🤯 Each generator at Davis Dam releases about 4,700 cubic feet of water per second—that’s nearly 2 million gallons per second when all five are running! 🌊⚡ Talk about power on a massive scale. #DavisDam #WaterPower #NationalPublicLandsDay
thebeelivenews
17 likes • 1.6K views

Water Activities Galore :kayak:

Enjoy boating, jet skiing, and fishing on Lake Mohave. Rentals are available nearby. :I4:

Scenic River Views :camera_with_flash:

The River Walk Trail offers stunning vistas of the Colorado River. Perfect for photos! :I3:

The U.S.S Riverside River Cruise goes under the bridge and up to the Davis Dam. #Laughlin #ColoradoRiver
laughlinbuzz
0 likes • 27.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack for the Heat! :sun_with_face:

Arizona summers are intense. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats for any outdoor activity. :iphone:

Tent Camping Rules :tent:

Tents are permitted, but not in RV sites or next to vacation homes. Check specific placement guidelines. :R2:

Water Activities Galore :kayak:

Enjoy boating, jet skiing, and fishing on Lake Mohave. Rentals are available nearby. :I4:

Scenic River Views :camera_with_flash:

The River Walk Trail offers stunning vistas of the Colorado River. Perfect for photos! :I3:

Local History Insights :scroll:

Learn about the history of Fort Mohave and Bullhead City on the Colorado River. :T3:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Davis Dam for its impressive scale and the recreational opportunities it offers on Lake Mohave and the Colorado River. The scenic trails and power generation aspects are frequently highlighted as positives. However, some find the area can get very hot during summer months and wish for more immediate amenities.

What People Like

Impressive dam structure
Lake Mohave recreation
Scenic river views

What People Dislike

Extreme summer heat
Limited on-site amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Davis Dam is approximately a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas. Take US-93 South towards Boulder City, then continue on US-95 South towards Laughlin, Nevada. The dam is located just across the Colorado River from Laughlin. :T1:

From Bullhead City, Arizona, take Highway 95 North. The Davis Dam Recreation Area will be on your right. If coming from Laughlin, Nevada, cross the Colorado River and follow signs for the dam. :T1:

Public transportation options directly to Davis Dam are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. :R1:

The closest major airport is Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport (IFP), located in Bullhead City, Arizona. Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS) is another option, though further away. :T1:

Yes, Davis Dam is situated on the border between Arizona and Nevada, with access points and recreation areas on both sides of the Colorado River. :T3:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no admission fee to view the exterior of Davis Dam. However, day-use fees may apply for the recreation areas and campgrounds. :R1:

The recreation areas are generally open year-round. Specific hours for facilities like visitor centers or campgrounds may vary, so it's best to check with the Bureau of Reclamation or the US Forest Service. :T1:

While public tours of the powerhouse are not regularly scheduled, you can often see the dam's impressive structure from the surrounding recreation areas. Information on any special access or tours might be available through the Bureau of Reclamation. :I1:

Visitors should be aware of general safety guidelines around dams and water bodies. Specific restrictions may apply to camping and certain activities within the recreation areas. :T2:

The term 'Davis Dam Park' often refers to the recreation areas managed by the Bureau of Reclamation or US Forest Service. Day-use fees may apply for these areas, typically ranging from $10-$20 per vehicle. :R1:

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy boating, jet skiing, fishing, hiking on the River Walk Trail, picnicking, and camping. The Colorado River and Lake Mohave offer numerous water-based recreational opportunities. :I3: :I4:

Swimming is generally permitted in designated areas of Lake Mohave. However, always be cautious of currents, boat traffic, and water temperatures. :I7:

Yes, the River Walk Trail at Davis Dam offers scenic hiking and biking opportunities with beautiful views of the Colorado River. :I3:

Fishing is a popular activity in the Colorado River and Lake Mohave. You'll need a valid fishing license for the state you are fishing in (Arizona or Nevada). :I3:

Campgrounds are available in the Davis Dam Recreation Area. Tents are allowed, but there are specific rules regarding placement. RV sites are also available. :T2:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants directly at Davis Dam itself. However, the nearby towns of Laughlin, Nevada, and Bullhead City, Arizona, offer a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining. :R1:

Yes, you are generally allowed to bring your own food and drinks to the recreation areas. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river! :T2:

Yes, the Davis Dam Recreation Area provides picnic spots, perfect for a family outing or a relaxing lunch with a view of the Colorado River. :I3:

Laughlin offers a diverse range of food, including family-friendly options, steakhouses, and casino dining. :R1:

Yes, you can find grocery stores in both Bullhead City, Arizona, and Laughlin, Nevada, to stock up on supplies for your visit. :T1:

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the dam's structure, the vastness of Lake Mohave, and the scenic Colorado River from the River Walk Trail and various viewpoints. :I3: :I7:

Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near federal facilities like dams. Always check local regulations and airspace advisories before flying. :I5:

Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer beautiful lighting for capturing the dam and the surrounding landscape. Midday can be harsh due to the desert sun. :I5:

The sheer scale of the dam's generators and the power it generates are unique subjects. The U.S.S Riverside River Cruise passing under the bridge towards the dam also offers a unique perspective. :I1: :I2:

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive dam and river views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting or focusing on specific details of the dam's engineering. :I5:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Davis Dam offers a fantastic family-friendly experience with plenty of outdoor activities. Lake Mohave is perfect for safe boating and swimming, while the River Walk Trail provides easy hiking suitable for younger legs. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the designated areas, and consider camping for an extended adventure. The nearby towns of Laughlin and Bullhead City offer additional entertainment and dining options that cater to families. :I3: :T2:

When visiting, prioritize early morning or late afternoon activities to avoid the peak heat of the day, especially during summer. Ensure everyone stays hydrated and protected from the sun with hats and sunscreen. The sheer scale of the dam itself can also be a fascinating educational point for children, sparking curiosity about engineering and power generation. :I1:

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

Davis Dam is an excellent stop for road trippers exploring the Southwest, especially those traveling between Las Vegas and Arizona. It's an easy 2-hour drive from Las Vegas, making it a perfect day trip destination. You can spend a few hours admiring the dam, taking a short hike on the River Walk Trail, or enjoying a picnic by the river. :I3: :I5:

For those on a longer road trip, consider extending your stay to enjoy boating on Lake Mohave or exploring the nearby casinos and entertainment in Laughlin. The recreation areas offer camping for an overnight experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the desert landscape and the Colorado River. Don't forget to check the weather, as summer temperatures can be extreme. :T1: :I4:

🎣 Anglers & Water Sports Enthusiasts

Davis Dam is a prime destination for fishing and water sports. Lake Mohave provides a vast playground for boating, jet skiing, and waterskiing, with plenty of space to explore. The waters are known for various fish species, making it a popular spot for anglers. Remember to obtain the correct fishing licenses for either Arizona or Nevada, depending on where you are casting your line. :I4: :I3:

Beyond the adrenaline-pumping water sports, the calm waters of the lake are also ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. The scenic beauty of the Colorado River adds to the experience, offering picturesque backdrops for your aquatic adventures. The recreation areas provide convenient access points for launching boats and enjoying a full day on the water. :I7:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Engineering Marvel of Davis Dam

Davis Dam, completed in 1951, is a significant concrete gravity dam on the Colorado River. It stands as a testament to engineering prowess, designed to regulate water flow and generate hydroelectric power. The dam's primary purpose is to control the river's flow, preventing floods and ensuring a steady water supply for downstream communities and agricultural areas. Its construction was a monumental undertaking, involving thousands of workers and advanced techniques for its time.

The dam's powerhouse is equipped with five generating units, each capable of producing substantial electricity. When all units are operational, the dam releases an astonishing amount of water per second, highlighting its immense power generation capacity. This electricity is crucial for powering homes and businesses in the region, contributing significantly to the local and state economies. The scale of power generated is enough to cool hundreds of thousands of homes annually, underscoring its importance. :I1: :I5:

Beyond its functional aspects, Davis Dam also plays a vital role in recreation. It creates the standby Lake Mohave, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other water sports. The surrounding recreation areas, managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, offer trails, picnic spots, and camping facilities, making it a multifaceted attraction that blends industrial might with natural beauty and leisure activities. :I3: :I7:

Recreation and Activities at Davis Dam

The Davis Dam area is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities centered around the Colorado River and Lake Mohave. Boating and jet skiing are incredibly popular, with ample space on Lake Mohave for water sports. Many visitors rent boats or bring their own to explore the lake's coves and shorelines. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, fishing is a prime activity, with opportunities to catch various species in both the river and the lake. Remember to secure the appropriate fishing licenses for Arizona or Nevada before casting your line. :I4: :I3:

Hiking and biking are also major draws, particularly along the scenic River Walk Trail. This trail provides stunning panoramic views of the Colorado River and the surrounding desert landscape, making it ideal for a morning stroll or an afternoon ride. The trail is well-maintained and offers a refreshing escape into nature. For families and groups, the designated picnic areas provide perfect spots for a leisurely meal amidst beautiful scenery. Camping facilities are available for those wishing to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the natural environment. :I3:

Beyond the immediate dam area, the proximity to Laughlin, Nevada, and Bullhead City, Arizona, opens up a world of entertainment and dining options. Visitors can enjoy casino resorts, live entertainment, and a wide array of restaurants. This blend of natural recreation and nearby amenities makes the Davis Dam region a well-rounded destination for various types of travelers. :T1: :R1:

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