July 16, 2009

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

America's Best Idea: National Park Getaway

Las Vegas, NV - Just 40 minutes from the bright lights of the Las Vegas strip, Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers two lakes, stunning desert scenery, and plenty to keep you busy or help you unwind. From kayaking to fishing, hiking to horseback riding, the park has something for everyone. You can even opt for a houseboat vacation - where there is always a lakefront view!

Lake Mead is not just about water. Sitting on some of the most rugged terrain in the world, the Mojave Desert, mountains, plateaus, desert basins of cacti and creosote bush, and vertical-walled canyons surround you. After you've taken it all in, bed down under the stars or park your RV at a fully-equipped camp site and just kick back and make some memories. "From a picnic on the beach to a scenic drive through the park, Lake Mead is an easy and affordable getaway," says Superintendent William Dickinson.

This weekend, July 18-19, the National Park Service is making it even more affordable, waiving entrance fees at national parks across the country. To sweeten the deal, Lake Mead will also not charge lake use fees and the park's concessioners are offering discounts, giveaways, and events, including:

• Forever Resorts, Callville Bay, Temple Bar, Cottonwood Cove
  - July 18, take a free houseboat ride from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. and pick up a free eco-friendly shopping bag from its stores.
• Lake Mead Cruises, Hemenway Harbor - Discounts on selected beverages.
• Las Vegas Boat Harbor, Hemenway Harbor
  - Boaters can come out to AquaPalooza for free BBQ on the beach at Swallow Cove. July 18, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Registration required. Call 702-434-4405.
• Seven Crown Resorts, Echo Bay, Katherine Landing
  - Discounts on houseboat and patio boat rentals.

Each week, www.nps.gov/getaways featuresone of the almost 400 national parks to help people find places to reconnect with nature, history, family, and friends. Previous getaways include Boston National Historical Park, North Cascades National Park, Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, and Prince William Forest Park.

» Click here for more information about entrance fee free weekends

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