This Little Known State Park In Nevada Will Be Your New Favorite Summer Destination

A protected area for only two decades, Big Bend of the Colorado is one of Nevada's newest state parks. Now it may become your new favorite summer destination.

Located within Laughlin, just downstream from Davis Dam, Big Bend of the Colorado is a true oasis in the desert. Even when the temperature is hot (and we mean hot – 115 degrees is not unheard of), the waters of the Colorado River remain refreshingly cool. It’s a welcome summer retreat for desert dwellers and a fun place to visit year-round. You can even bring your dog!

Read on to learn more about this wet and wild summer destination.

Note: Because this is a state park, fees are assessed for entry, camping and boating. To see the most recent fee schedule, click here. For hiking, here's a trails map.

Big Bend was classified as a state recreation destination in 1996.

Nevada is on the upper side of the Colorado River. Arizona is below.

It’s a wonderful oasis along the shores of the Colorado River.

The park offers nearly two miles of shoreline, but the water is the main draw.

The boat launch, above, originates in a man-made lagoon.

Visitors enjoy wave-running

Canoeing

Fishing

Floating and swimming

Beach volleyball is a hit here too.

You may spot some exciting wildlife along the way.

Desert Bighorn Sheep, above, are among the park's wildlife. Also keep a lookout for cottontail, fox, raccoon, beaver, muskrat, coyote, lizards and snakes. Be prepared to do lots of bird watching.

There are 24 spacious campsites (three of which are ADA equipped).

Camping sites accommodate RVs and offer hook-ups for water, electric and sewer.

Covered ramadas provide plenty of shade.

But most your time will be spent in the water.

Ah, the crystal-clear water.

And oh, those mountain views.

Absolutely stunning!

Clean bathrooms and shower facilities too? It's practically a glampground.

So what do you think?

Is Big Bend in Nevada your new favorite summer destination?

Let us know what you think of this summer destination in the comments below.

If you enjoyed learning about Big Bend of the Colorado, you may also enjoy 20 Destinations Everyone In Nevada Needs To Visit This Summer.