Discover the hidden gems of the Silver State.
Have you ever imagined gliding across serene lakes or exploring picturesque shores?
The best places to paddle board in Nevada are calling your name.
Embark on a thrilling adventure through Nevada’s stunning landscape. Are you ready to make a splash?
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Nevada
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Lake Mead

- ️Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Boulder Beach (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, varying winds depending on the area
- Popular Seasons: Spring, Summer, and Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Striped bass, catfish, herons, and bighorn sheep on the shores
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Hoover Dam, Black Canyon, and cliff formations
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution in windy conditions, be aware of boating areas, adhere to National Park Service regulations
Lake Mead, located near Las Vegas and the Arizona border, is a popular destination for paddleboarders. With its vast, open waters and striking desert landscape, it offers abundant opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Paddlers can head towards the Hoover Dam and Black Canyon for some breathtaking views and unique experiences.
#2 Lake Tahoe

- ????️ ️Location Type: Mountain Lake
- Access Point: Sand Harbor Beach (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, clear alpine lake water, can be windy in afternoon
- Popular Seasons: Summer and early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Trout, mountain whitefish, ducks, geese, ospreys
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Clear turquoise waters, surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution in windy conditions, cold water can be a risk
Although primarily in California, Lake Tahoe’s northeastern shore extends into Nevada. Paddling along Sand Harbor Beach and the surrounding areas provide the same stunning alpine lake experience.
This picturesque location offers both a relaxing and adventurous paddleboarding journey, featuring crystal clear waters and impressive mountain views.
#3 Lake Las Vegas

- ????️ ️Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Reflection Bay Beach (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, mild winds
- Popular Seasons: Year-round
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Bass, carp, water birds
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Surrounding desert landscape, elegant resorts
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be mindful of gated community rules, avoid private properties
Lake Las Vegas provides a more upscale and secluded paddleboarding experience. Surrounded by plush resorts and desert scenery, paddlers will find calm waters ideal for a serene and leisurely journey.
Enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding lakefront community and desert landscape.
#4 Colorado River

- ️Location Type: River
- Access Point: Willow Beach, Arizona side (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle to moderate currents, occasional winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring, Summer, and Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Striped bass, rainbow trout, desert bighorn sheep, and birds
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Black Canyon, Emerald Cove, Hoover Dam
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Pay attention to currents, respect private property, and know your limits
Although not directly in Nevada, the Colorado River runs along its border, providing a nearby adventure for paddleboarders. The river offers beautiful canyon views, intriguing coves, and the opportunity to spot unique wildlife.
For a more extraordinary experience, paddlers can head to Emerald Cove, which boasts striking green waters.
#5 Sparks Marina Lake

- ????️ ️Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: North side of Marina Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, light breezes
- Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Geese, ducks, and fish
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Surrounding parks, lighthouse
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to designated areas, watch for boats
Located in Sparks, Nevada, Sparks Marina Lake provides a pleasant paddleboarding experience close to urban conveniences. The calm waters and picturesque surroundings make it perfect for beginners and families to enjoy a day on the water.
The surrounding parks and lighthouse offer a charming atmosphere for a relaxing paddleboarding session.
#6 Washoe Lake

- ????️ ️Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Washoe Lake State Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Can be choppy, strong winds at times
- Popular Seasons: Spring and Late Summer to Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, geese, and deer
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Sierra Nevada mountains, surrounding wetlands and desert
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution in windy conditions, beware of shallow waters
Washoe Lake, situated between Reno and Carson City, offers paddlers a diverse environment with stunning mountain views and a mix of wetlands and desert surroundings.
Its windy conditions can add challenge and excitement for paddleboarders, while the beautiful landscape provides a picturesque backdrop for exploration.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Nevada?
Lake Tahoe, Lake Mead, and Colorado River are among the top spots for paddle boarding in Nevada.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Nevada?
No, there is no requirement to register paddle boards in Nevada.
When is the best time to paddle board in Nevada?
The optimal time for paddle boarding in Nevada is between late spring and early fall, due to the favorable weather conditions.
