Cottonwood Cove sits on the Nevada shore of Lake Mohave, about an hour's drive south of Las Vegas via US-95 and NV-164. Lake Mohave itself is a long, narrow Colorado River reservoir stretching roughly 67 miles between Hoover Dam and Davis Dam, frequently described as calmer and more sheltered than its larger, more open neighbor, Lake Mead — with less open fetch for wind to build waves, it tends to offer gentler conditions for paddling, especially in coves near Cottonwood Cove.
What to Expect
The confirmed public access point is the NPS boat launch ramp, shared with motorized traffic. NPS's own paddling guidance actually names Willow Beach, much farther north below Hoover Dam and part of the Black Canyon National Water Trail, as the park's primary designated paddler destination on this lake — Cottonwood Cove isn't marketed the same way, but it's fully open to kayaking and likely offers a quieter, more casual experience away from that trail's crowds.
Scenery & Safety
Expect classic Mojave Desert reservoir landscape — stark mountains, desert basins, and vertical-walled canyon terrain framing the water, with numerous hidden coves worth exploring. Life jackets are required to be carried at minimum, and NPS recommends wearing one at all times. Keep at least 300 feet from dive-flag areas, since this is a shared-use lake with scuba divers as well as boat traffic.
Practical Advice
- Lake levels fluctuate with ongoing drought — shorelines can hide shallows and submerged debris.
- Summer brings monsoon thunderstorms with real flash-flood and lightning risk — seek a protected cove if a storm builds.
- Call Cottonwood Cove Resort & Marina directly to confirm current kayak/canoe rental rates and booking policy before your trip.
For first-timers: launch early morning, carry a full gallon of water per person, wear a life jacket the whole time, and check the NPS conditions page for current lake level and weather before heading out.
