Hemenway Valley Park | Boulder City

Information

Landmark: Hemenway Valley Park
City: Boulder City
Country: USA Nevada
Continent: North America

Hemenway Valley Park, Boulder City, USA Nevada, North America

Hemenway Valley Park is a public recreational area situated in Boulder City, Nevada. It provides access to Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a large, paved parking area adjacent to a boat launch ramp. The shoreline consists of gravel and sand. Vegetation is sparse, primarily consisting of desert scrub and low-lying bushes adapted to arid conditions. The water body is Lake Mead, a reservoir formed by the Hoover Dam.

Location & Access Logistics

Hemenway Valley Park is located approximately 5 miles southeast of Boulder City, Nevada. Access is via State Route 165 (Lake Shore Road). The park entrance is clearly marked. Ample paved parking is available for vehicles and trailers. No public transport services operate directly to the park.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Hemenway Valley Park is part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, established in 1964. The valley itself is a natural geological formation, a dry wash that now forms part of the lakebed when water levels are high. The creation of Lake Mead is a direct result of the construction of the Hoover Dam, completed in 1936.

Key Highlights & Activities

Boating and watercraft launching are primary activities. Fishing is permitted from the shore or from boats. Swimming is allowed in designated areas. Picnicking is available at designated sites. Hiking trails are accessible from the park's perimeter.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the park. Shade structures are present at some picnic areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available but can be intermittent. No food vendors are located within the park; visitors should bring their own supplies.

Best Time to Visit

For water activities, the months of April through October offer the warmest temperatures. Early morning and late afternoon provide optimal lighting for photography, particularly of the lake and surrounding desert landscape. Water levels in Lake Mead fluctuate; check current levels before visiting for optimal boat access.

Facts & Legends

During periods of extreme drought, the receding waters of Lake Mead can expose historical artifacts and structures previously submerged. One notable discovery was the remains of a B-29 Superfortress bomber that crashed into the lake in 1948.