Explore Nevada: Top Vacation Rentals from Lake Tahoe to Las Vegas
Nevada is far more than just the glitz of Las Vegas. This diverse state offers vacation rentals that cater to a wide range of experiences, from the serenity of Lake Tahoe’s alpine shores to the rugged beauty of the Great Basin. Renting a cabin in Incline Village gives travelers access to Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or hiking the scenic trails surrounding this iconic destination. For a more remote escape, consider a stay near the Valley of Fire State Park, where stunning red rock formations provide a striking backdrop for a desert retreat.
Urban adventurers will find Las Vegas’s vibrant energy unmatched, with rentals offering easy access to world-class entertainment, dining, and nightlife. Beyond the Strip, explore the artsy Fremont East District or venture to Red Rock Canyon for a taste of Nevada’s wild side. Whether you’re seeking the tranquility of mountain views or the excitement of a city that never sleeps, Nevada’s vacation rentals offer a perfect base for exploring all this multifaceted state has to offer.
Top Three Facts about Nevada
01
Las Vegas Lights
The Las Vegas Strip is so bright that it can be seen from space. The city’s vibrant lights make it one of the most recognizable landmarks when viewed from above.
02
Silver State
Nevada is often called the “Silver State” due to its historical importance in silver mining during the 19th century. The state’s nickname is also reflected on its license plates.
03
Fly Geyser
This unique and otherworldly geyser is located on private land in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert. Its vibrant colors and constant water eruptions make it a visually captivating outdoor attraction.
Must See Attractions
Valley of Fire State Park
Nature & Parks
Valley of Fire State Park captivates visitors with its mesmerizing red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and desert landscapes, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and a photographer’s paradise.
Hoover Dam
Speciality Museums
Hoover Dam, a marvel of engineering on the Nevada-Arizona border, is a testament to human ingenuity. It harnesses the power of the Colorado River to provide hydroelectricity and create the immense Lake Mead reservoir.
Las Vegas Strip
Cities & Towns
The Las Vegas Strip is an iconic stretch of South Las Vegas Boulevard known for its vibrant nightlife, luxurious hotels, and world-class entertainment. From the dazzling fountains of the Bellagio to the replica Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas, the Strip offers an array of attractions that cater to every taste.
Where to Sleep
Nevada Lakes to Explore
1. Lake Tahoe
Straddling the Nevada-California border, Lake Tahoe is renowned for its crystal clear waters, surrounded by the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains.
2. Topaz Lake
Straddling the Nevada-California border, Topaz Lake is a popular destination for fishing and water sports. It is surrounded by breathtaking Eastern Sierra scenery.
3. Pyramid Lake
Known for its unique tufa formations and scenic beauty, Pyramid Lake is a captivating destination for fishing, particularly for the native Lahontan cutthroat trout.
4. Walker Lake
Nestled within the Great Basin, Walker Lake boasts picturesque views and serves as a serene spot for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquility of the Nevada landscape.
5. Ruby Lake
Located in the Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge, this peaceful lake is a haven for birdwatchers, with numerous species of migratory birds gracing its shores.
6. Cave Lake
Surrounded by the scenic Schell Creek Range, Cave Lake State Park is a hidden gem, providing a tranquil setting for fishing, camping, and enjoying the great outdoors.
7. Lake Mead
Formed by the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead is the largest reservoir in the USA, offering boating, fishing, and recreation in the dramatic desert setting of southern Nevada.
8. Lake Mohave
Situated along the Colorado River, Lake Mohave offers recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and exploring the stunning Black Canyon.
Annual Events and Festivals
June 19 – 28, 2025
Reno Rodeo
Usually taking place in June, the Reno Rodeo attracts rodeo enthusiasts and spectators from near and far. The rodeo features a lineup of professional competitions, including bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, and more, where skilled cowboys and cowgirls display their prowess in traditional rodeo events. Beyond the arena, the festivities extend to the entire community, with a lively parade, a carnival atmosphere, and a range of family-friendly activities.
September 6 – 8, 2024
Great Reno Balloon Race
The Great Reno Balloon Race is a mesmerizing and vibrant spectacle that transforms the skies over Reno, Nevada, into a canvas of color and whimsy. This event is the largest free hot-air balloon festival in the world, attracting thousands of spectators. As the first light of dawn breaks, a kaleidoscope of brilliantly colored balloons ascends over the picturesque backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains, creating a breathtaking display.
September 2024
Virginia City International Camel Races
The Virginia City International Camel Races offers a whimsical and entertaining spectacle that has become a beloved tradition. Every September, this historic mining town transforms into a lively venue where camels, ostriches, and other exotic animals take center stage in a series of races, showcasing their surprisingly speedy and comical athleticism. The event also features a festive atmosphere with live music, food vendors, and a variety of quirky competitions, making it a family-friendly affair that captures the spirit of the Old West in a uniquely Nevada way.
Top Hiking Trails
Calico Tanks Trail
Sandstone Quarry Overlook, Red Rock Canyon Rd, Las Vegas, Nevada
The 3.2-mile trail winds through red sandstone formations, slot canyons, and diverse flora, providing hikers with an immersive experience in the Mojave Desert. The highlight of the trail is the natural water tank, known as Calico Tank, nestled amid the rocks. It often holds reflective pools of water and offers a refreshing reward for those who reach it. The panoramic vistas from higher elevations along the trail showcase the vibrant hues of the surrounding sandstone cliffs and the expansive beauty of the Nevada desert.
Fire Wave, White Domes and Seven Wonders Loop
Ponderosa Ranch Rd, Incline Village, Nevada
The 3.2-mile hike is a spectacular trail that unveils the striking beauty of the Mojave Desert. This loop combines the patterns of the Fire Wave, an undulating formation of fiery red and orange sandstone, with the iconic White Domes, showcasing contrasting light-colored rock formations and a scenic slot canyon. The Seven Wonders section adds an extra layer of intrigue with its diverse landscapes, featuring petroglyphs and panoramic views of the surrounding desert.
Mount Rose Peak Trail
Mt. Rose Summit Parking, Nevada
The Mount Rose Peak Trail offers an exhilarating hiking experience in the Lake Tahoe region of Nevada. Ascending to the summit of Mount Rose, which stands at an elevation of 10,776 feet (3,285 meters), this trail provides hikers with panoramic views of Lake Tahoe, the surrounding mountain ranges, and the sprawling valleys below. The 11-mile hike takes about six hours to complete.
Best Golf Courses
Shadow Creek Golf Course
Shadow Creek Golf Course, 3 Shadow Creek Dr, North Las Vegas, Nevada
Shadow Creek Golf Course in Las Vegas, Nevada, is renowned for its opulent design and lush surroundings. This exclusive golf course, designed by renowned architect Tom Fazio, is often considered one of the top courses in the United States. Nestled within the desert landscape, Shadow Creek boasts meticulous fairways, waterfalls, and bunkers, creating a picturesque yet challenging golfing experience.
Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course
180 Lake Parkway Stateline, Nevada
Nestled along the shores of the iconic Lake Tahoe, the course is a world-class destination for golf enthusiasts seeking a sublime blend of challenging play and scenery. This meticulously designed course, framed by the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains, offers an unparalleled golfing experience in Stateline, Nevada. Renowned golf architect George Fazio crafted the layout, incorporating the natural contours of the terrain and showcasing stunning views of the pristine lake.
Reflection Bay Golf Club
75 Montelago Blvd, Henderson, Nevada
Designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, this championship course offers a harmonious blend of challenging play and stunning views. The course is renowned for its strategic layout, incorporating the desert landscape and the sparkling waters of Lake Las Vegas. Golfers navigating the fairways encounter strategically placed bunkers, undulating greens, and picturesque water features. Reflection Bay’s signature hole, the par-3 17th, features an island green, adding an extra layer of excitement to the round.
Water Sports
Tahoe Dive Center
Scuba Diving
Known for its exceptionally clear and cold waters, Lake Tahoe provides divers with unparalleled visibility, allowing them to explore the lake’s submerged wonders. With depths reaching over 1,600 feet, divers can encounter captivating underwater landscapes, including rocky formations, submerged trees, and the remnants of boats from bygone eras. The remarkably clear water also reveals a diverse array of aquatic life, including various species of trout and crawfish. While the cold temperatures require divers to don specialized drysuits or wetsuits, the underwater scenery and the feeling of tranquility beneath the lake’s surface make scuba diving in Lake Tahoe a truly memorable adventure.
Truckee River Raft Co.
Kayaking along the Truckee River provides outdoor enthusiasts with a delightful and scenic adventure in the heart of northern Nevada. As kayakers navigate the river, they encounter a mix of tranquil stretches, lively rapids, and captivating scenery, including the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains and forests. The river’s flow caters to various skill levels, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
Lake Mead Fishing Guides Las Vegas Fishing Charter Tours
Fishing
Fishing in a Nevada lake is a rewarding and serene experience that allows anglers to connect with the state’s diverse aquatic ecosystems. Whether casting a line in the expansive waters of Lake Mead or utilizing a fishing guide such as Lake Mead Fishing Guides Las Vegas Fishing Charter Tours, there is a wide variety of fishing opportunities. Depending on the lake and its ecosystem, anglers can pursue a range of fish species, including rainbow trout, bass, catfish, and northern pike.
Resort to Explore
Tahiti Village Resort
Recreational, Family-friendly
7200 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, Nevada 89119
Mustang Monument Eco Resort & Preserve
Luxury, Couples
Wells, Nevada 89835
Hyatt Vacation Club At High Sierra Lodge
Recreational, Family-friendly
989 Incline Way, Incline Village, Nevada 89451
Tips on Vacationing in Nevada
Visit National and State Parks
Explore Nevada’s natural beauty by visiting national and state parks. Valley of Fire, Red Rock Canyon, and Great Basin National Park are just a few examples of the state’s stunning outdoor destinations.
Respect Local Cultures
Nevada has a rich cultural heritage, particularly among Native American communities. Respect local customs and be mindful of protected areas and sacred sites.
Photography Opportunities
Nevada’s landscapes provide fantastic photography opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. Capture the unique colors and formations in places like Red Rock Canyon, Lake Tahoe, and the Valley of Fire.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nevada
You’ll find many options when looking for a vacation rental in Nevada. Popular areas include Las Vegas, with its bustling nightlife and numerous entertainment options, and Lake Tahoe, offering visitors beautiful scenery and a variety of outdoor activities.
Lake Tahoe, straddling the border of Nevada and California, is widely regarded as one of the best lakes in Nevada, if not the entire United States. Surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range, Lake Tahoe is not only the largest alpine lake in North America but also one of the clearest. Its cobalt-blue waters draw visitors year-round for a myriad of activities.
During the summer, the lake becomes a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. The stunning shoreline provides access to hiking and biking trails, and the surrounding mountains offer panoramic views. In the winter, Lake Tahoe transforms into a winter wonderland, with nearby world-class ski resorts attracting snow enthusiasts. The lake’s clarity and scenic beauty, combined with its diverse recreational offerings, make Lake Tahoe an unparalleled destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Nevada.
Consider your preferences and desired activities when narrowing down the perfect location for your Nevada vacation rental.
When searching for a mountain cabin in Nevada, consider location, size, and amenities. If you’re interested in outdoor activities, choose a cabin that provides easy access to hiking trails, ski resorts, or other outdoor attractions. Be sure to check for conveniences like Wi-Fi, heating, and kitchen facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Restrictions for short-term rentals in Nevada can vary depending on local regulations and property management rules. Familiarize yourself with guidelines such as maximum occupancy, quiet hours, and parking restrictions before booking your vacation rental. As always, checking with the property owner or management company regarding any specific rules or restrictions that may apply to your desired rental is a good idea.
Yes, making a last-minute reservation for a vacation home in Nevada is possible. However, availability may be limited, and you may need more flexibility regarding property choice or desired dates. To increase your chances of securing a suitable vacation rental, it’s best to book as early as possible. If you do find yourself in need of a last-minute reservation, websites like Lake can be helpful in identifying available properties that match your criteria.
The fall (September to November) and spring (March to May) are considered the best times to visit, with milder temperatures. Summers can be hot, especially in the desert, while winter brings colder temperatures, particularly in higher elevations.