Lake Mead National Recreation Area: Kayak, bike, and explore ghost towns.

There is so much to do and see in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. We check out three campgrounds, ride our ebikes on an historic railroad trail to the Hoover Dam, explore the ghost town of Nelson, and take a paddle on the Colorado River.
Links to items mentioned in our videos (and my camera gear) can be found on my
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Music in this video is from a subscription with Epidemic Sound:
The Bus Stop - Spectacles Wallet and Watch
Coming Home Blues - Bo the Drifter
Rosemary’s Garden - Peter Crosby
Goofy Moments 14 - Magus Ringblom
Taking Me High Taking Me Low - John Glossner

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Okay, that statement "due the abundance of...." Just loved that!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Abundancy of stupid people. 😂. Lynn said the Beep Beep sounded like something I would do. Not sure that's a good thing. Loved the video and our virtual visit with our friends. Made us smile.

[@nickvanherk2292]

Worth it just for the tip on the 'cycling' gloves alone!

[@johndoody1492]

Debbie, you’re in the groove. Very, very nice. Smooth, relaxing imagery and editing. Well done!

[@judystreich4554]

Loved this video, thanks for taking us along. No gators? No sharks? 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@judyhays2413]

Would LOVE it if you'd do a video on the using the RV apps. We would definitely welcome any information on apps for RV'ers. Many thanks!

[@rayhiemstra4501]

More there than I thought!

[@joelshattlesjr1733]

Thanks John and Debbie. A great journey!

[@bobshoe1]

You and John (and Owen and Lynn) have really inspired us. Judy and I just put a down payment on a new Coachmen Beyond, AWD with lithium package. Not sure when it will be ready, but we sure are excited. Previously we owned an Airstream Interstate and then an LTV Unity. We thought we were hanging up our RV keys, but here we go again!

[@FromShetoMe]

I think that's great. As long as you can put one foot in front of the other, I hope you keep exploring.

[@lostintime8172]

LOVE LOVE LOVE! Especially the roadrunner! (That’s what we call our van btw!) Meep meep!

[@joanmcerlean7158]

So enjoyed the usual stellar filming, narration and music. Loved the typing sound effects!

[@panchamama]

Loved the roadrunner beep beep!

[@despinaraizes4757]

Barbara, I loved the roadrunner also. We named our RV the Roadrunner.

[@patriciaburke8729]

I would certainly welcome any and all r.v. travel tech info. I’m sort of at a plateau with my knowledge base. Doesn’t help that we’ve really just spent a year not leaving New England due to Covid. Found several sites handy during a 3 month trip to southwest winter of 2019,2020 but know I didn’t utilize any of the sites fully. I’ve got the travel bug badly. 2nd vax tommorrow , 2 weeks wait and I’m outta here! Thanks for the offer.

[@johnsparkman2007]

Debbie you should just do a vlog about your top 5-10 travel apps and explain how they work. Think it would be a big help to rv'ers everywhere. 👍

[@trudymeyers2386]

I have been camping/RVing for 10 years. Have attended many rallies where classes will be held on different things. What I have found, long before camping, is that if you gain one new piece of knowledge its been worth you time. Things update, you find areas in apps that you didn't know existed its always worth listen and checking it out. Thanks for your sharing of knowledge.

[@FromShetoMe]

Thanks Trudy. I agree, even if I get just one good tip it is worth my time. And of course, you usually meet some neat people too.

[@lifestidepools]

Yes, an app tutorial would be very helpful for us soon to be newbies! Thx

[@MarySears]

Great video, places I haven’t been to but will add them to my list, thanks! Great underwater shot, hope your camera survived. Looking forward to an update on your bedding and a tutorial on travel apps. 😄

[@10seconds415]

A best practices on AllStays would be greatly appreciated. Love the videos!!!

[@sounddesignmix3002]

Thanks Debbie and John. We really enjoy your travels! Our season begins next week just after Easter, can't wait to get on the road again.

[@beverlyhendricks9456]

You explain things so well. Yes I would enjoy your tips on all three of those apps. Ty.

[@Night_hack]

I love seeing the places you go and your photography. We lived out west for 11 years and I miss it. We’ve traveled back several times but since Covid we haven’t. Cabin fever is here and the temps out west right now are perfect.

[@FromShetoMe]

Yes, it’s the best time of year. Then Mother Nature flips the switch and OMG, get me outta there.

[@bettyjorodgers8552]

Lovely video. Thank you.

[@Pinky121971]

Thank you Debbie & John, You guys are our go to guys, when it comes to RV Travel Tips, Experiences and much more. Its been truly a joy and pleasure watching your Videos, Sometimes it just makes us wonder your passion and dedicated time & effort you put in on this videos. I consider you the "Rick Steves" of RV travel within the US. We were extremely impressed when John Lifted That heavy Rad Bike without extra hands just like that, My guess is he's been getting a lot of good meals while on the road. Take care stay safe always, Hope to be on the road soon. From Clearwater Florida.

[@FromShetoMe]

Thanks! I was actually surprised myself when he did that. Has he been sneaking in some strength training that I missed? I know I need to do some. Happy travels.

[@RoadsofLife]

I have a suggestion about apps... Do a video for each app separately. That way, anyone can search for the app they need help with, and then see that app and not have to search in a video for the help they need nor get confused instructions from one app to the other. Since we have just ordered our Embassy RV, it's going to be a while before we actually need to use apps, so it's nice to be able to find your videos and learn about the apps when we actually start traveling! Thanks as always for great videos and great info! Be seeing you!

[@FromShetoMe]

Thanks and not to worry. If I put more than one in a video, I will time stamp each one so folks can jump to the one they want and I will clearly title so that they can be found more easily. I know I have been remiss in that department.

[@calvinlewis307]

Allstays !!! 🇺🇸🇯🇵

[@timsmith7625]

Was there a few years ago, but not the ghost town of Nelson. My brother who lives in Bullhead City has never been there either. Will stop just to see the old Flexible Motorhome. Cool. Lake is really down and saying it could drop another 20’ over the next few years. Thanks for the trip and stay safe!

[@despinaraizes4757]

This is my fourth attempt to post an app suggestion. My first 3 disappeared in cyberspace. 🙄 I’ve read uTubes rules and I didn’t violate any. Maybe if I post in code it won’t disappear. My suggestion for an app to demonstrate is how to use RTW. We completed our first 2021 RV TRIP. At one overnight stop the weather service issued a tornado warning and I couldn’t sleep well that night because all I could think about was Dorothy’s trip in the WIZARD of Oz.😉

[@FromShetoMe]

Email me if you are having a problem posting something and I can put it up. [e-mail]

[@janm8477]

Would enjoy hearing you talk about these apps, in any level of detail you want. I always learn something new from your presentations, even if I'm familiar with the issue/subject.

[@FromShetoMe]

Thanks. I'll put it into the lineup. Probably 3-4 weeks out.

[@mysticalmisfit1332]

Hey John & Debbie🙋🏽‍♀️ Great video. All of the camping spots were awesome. I’m so new, I don’t have a rig yet! A tutorial on navigating your favorite apps will give me a leg🦵🏽up when I hit the road 😃 Thank you! 🙏🏽

[@garywernick7950]

Great video. Lots of good ideas for local traveling. I'll be interested in you sleeping ideas. We've tried a new way of arranging the cushions in our Ascent and seems to work well for us. I'll be watching for you next video. Thanks.

[@lustraveller717]

"Owen, no gaters!" I loved it!!! It would be nice to have a tutorial on Allstays or any trip planning app for that matter. Loved the video. Stay healthy and safe travels!

[@Learned5000]

Hi Debbie....I’m so glad you added this comments section rather than sending you emails. Hopefully its not just me getting older and not seeing this option. Apologies if it is and thank you for always responding. I know there are other videos on video editing but was wondering if you would do a short video on the apps and process you use to create your videos. Love your channel and the way present them. Kind Regards, Glenn

[@FromShetoMe]

I'd be happy to do a zoom call if you would like more info on editing, etc. Just send me an email. [e-mail]

[@barbarajeroux9542]

Hello, I'll be a newbe this year and would love for a demonstration on commonly used Apps for traveling. Am enjoying your videos immensely. Love ghost towns too!

[@maitildamcintyre9344]

That was really fun, especially the kayaking part. I love checking out ghost towns too. Currently I’m beach camping and loving that windshield shade I got from your brother. I can see the ocean, but still have some shade. I never did add magnets to the shade, I used a bias tape to finish the edges and my plan was to add magnets when I used it and figured out the best placement. I use the strong magnets you recommended for the window coverings. I placed them in a grosgrain ribbon sleeve, I made for each magnet so the van wouldn’t scratch. I’ve decided to keep using them as is and not enclose them in the windshield shade. I figured it’s easier to roll and store without the magnets trying to stick to each other. Of the apps you mentioned the only one I know how to use is gas buddy😊. I would really benefit from a tutorial on how to use the apps you use. Love all I’ve learned and continue to learn from your channel. Oh and btw I bought the dongle you told me about and I watched your video on my Jensen tv in the van. Thanks fir that too.

[@FromShetoMe]

Glad to hear about your project and I agree, magnets can be a nuisance to deal with. Nice to hear you have been using a Jensen TV as well. Hope it holds up to the bumpy roads.

[@maitildamcintyre9344]

@@FromShetoMe so far so good, and it’s been on some bumpy roads. 18,000 miles so far. It has a good lock on it to hold it in place while traveling.

[@mikesrvcamping7012]

Looks nice

[@danmoline4262]

I really enjoy your channel. It's motivated me to travel US395 from Barstow to Reno (with my dog) at the end of April (and then over to SLC and back to PHX.

[@FromShetoMe]

Every side road off 395 leads to amazing places. Hope you can explore a few. If the Visitor center is open just South of Lone Pine, stop to peruse their books selection. My favorite is Genny Schumacher Smith’s book called The Deepest Valley.

[@danmoline4262]

@@FromShetoMe Thanks for the tips!

[@selenanieto8152]

Thanks for the video!

[@camperab]

Thanks a lot. You really had a great time!

[@alnolan8574]

Good Video! You guys have found your niche with exploring ghost towns.

[@TM88FYI]

Good morning, I was anxiously waiting for your new video!

[@jonazan5535]

Thanks for taking us along on your journey. I hope to make it out west someday myself. Stay well and keep exploring😊

[@deniseguzzo1719]

I love all your videos also love the great places you ride your bikes. When we take our trip out west I’m going to go back to all your videos to be able to go where you have been. We also have a pleasure way and the same e bikes and camp like John and you and Vantreking. Thank you

[@FromShetoMe]

Thanks. One of these days I'll get organized and create lists for people.

[@stan3497]

great video

[@maggiebrattoli383]

If you keep going up river (against the current) towards the dam. There is a great hot sprint cave ( not deep) but it is nice to feel the warm water.

[@FromShetoMe]

That would have been great but we weren’t in good paddling shape. Will have to go again.

[@tdadventures]

Such an awesome area to explore. Love seeing you guys kayak because we also love to kayak. Ghost Town was awesome. So nice that you live not far from Arizona and Nevada areas. We placed an order for a drone. We won't get it for a month and a half and we are working on studying for the license/certificate.

[@hideawayhomesllc5103]

How timely! We leave our winter home in Mazatlan, Mexico next week to spend Easter weekend in Las Vegas with our daughter. The ghost town and the rail trail are both on our way. Thank you so much!

[@angpb6176]

So true. Some of the best times are just wandered into with low expectations and an open mind. Meep-meep reminds me of the beautiful rest area / overlook outside of Las Cruces with the giant roadrunner. I think it was made from old tires? Loved the video - all the good stuff😁

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Hey John... are you SURE there are no 🐊's. 😂.

[@controller2152]

Another Great Vid. and we are total newbies too. We pick up our Revel in a month and can’t wait to test out Van life w/ bikes. A video on apps would be amazing and we will see ya on the trail.

[@kxrv6629]

Another nice vid. Got a kick out of the sound effects especially the roadrunner. The ghost town looks interesting. We’re not far away right now in Needles. Thoughts about heading that way, but think we’ve had enough desert for now. Need some green after 6 weeks in Arizona. Good on most apps, except don’t currently use AllTrails.

[@EJS1970]

I am tech savvy and just got the app All Stays so anxious to check it out. Love your videos.

[@Learned5000]

Great Ghost town.....will put it on our must sees since my wife loves these places.....happy wife!

[@Tahoetom1977]

Yes, yes Debbie, more on the camping/travel apps! You are an awesome teacher, and those apps tend to change over time. Now, back to your video. Tom

[@kathyowens9901]

Would love that tutorial if you find time, that was a great trip!

[@mwsteffen]

Enjoyed that banjo music!

[@FromShetoMe]

My great grandfather was supposedly a rock star on a banjo.

[@NelloCambelli]

Check out the glass door knob! My first & only Searchlight pass- through was in August & the RollingDogHouse chug a lug up the hills. Finally found MB ST. GEORGE which restored full power & joy.

[@SaltyVetAdventures]

We lived in Vegas for 8 years and never went out there. Now we live in Utah and last summer we took our boat out on Mead twice. So fun! I’m going to get out and explore. Thanks for sharing!!!!

[@FromShetoMe]

That always seems to happen. We know foreign lands more than our own backyard.

[@jennyfagan7337]

You need to check out route of Hiawatha in northern Idaho, lots of tunnels! Thanks for the tour!

[@FromShetoMe]

Thanks. I think that's the one my brother wants to take me on. We'll be up that way most of the summer so I'll ask him about it.

[@sandylee1717]

I’d love the app video!

[@rickbaker2330]

A really nice video on the Lake Mead area. I never knew! Looking forward to checking the area out, as we will start our RV travels in Jan 2022. We get our new RV in May 2021, a Thor Gemini 23TW. Thank you for the great information, and wonderful views.

[@FromShetoMe]

Hopefully you’ll be using it before January. Do lots of break in trips.

[@rickbaker2330]

@@FromShetoMe Thank you for the good advice. My first big trip will have to be made in May to visit family in Temecula and Lomita California. Have a brother with cancer I need to visit. I have two wonderful friends to visit in Huntington Beach, who used to RV when they were younger. Maybe I will bump into you and John on my visit. Looking forward to your next video.

[@johnpuccetti6019]

Just missed you we just got back from Valley of Fire and Castle gorge.

[@doncates2954]

Wonderful video, I would enjoy very much watching a video on the app’s that you utilize while on your trips. We begin our two month trip from here in the southern tip of Florida to Friday harbor in Washington on April 23. It looks like most of our trip will be spent in the canyon lands of Utah and the Pacific Northwest.

[@FromShetoMe]

That should be an awesome trip.

[@dosid184]

We drove from Stuart, FL to Pacific Northwest in May/June of 2018; it was so wonderful that we did it again in 2019. Enjoy!

[@debbie5765]

No gators but there are rattlesnakes that will swim out to greet you !🇺🇸❤️🌵

[@FromShetoMe]

LOL. Gators scare me much more than rattlesnakes. Probably just a matter of what we are familiar with.

[@kxrv6629]

Who knew... less than a week later we’d be traveling your route from Searchlight on SR 164 in reverse! Totally agree about the Joshua Tree forest, possibly more prolific than in JT National Park itself. Given your background I’m surprised you didn’t mention the stunning Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating Facility near the intersection with I-15. Apparent it is the world’s largest solar thermal facility generating 377 megawatts. Will have to come back through here in “normal” times when we can check out Magical Nipton and Walking Box Ranch. Thanks again for your video highlighting a road segment I’ve never driven before.

[@FromShetoMe]

LOL. I included some clips of Ivanpah in a previous video so I opted to leave it out. Plus, I’m not a fan of solar blight. I think it belongs on rooftops.

[@kxrv6629]

@@FromShetoMe Agree on solar blight. Roofs, parking lots and RVs of course😉

[@dosid184]

That was fun! I’m always on the lookout for a smaller, lighter chair: was that your Nemo Stargazer that John was folding at video’s end? I put the Pico in my Amazon cart but I often find that director’s chairs aren’t comfortable for an extended sit.

[@FromShetoMe]

No. We found some chairs at REI that take up less space than the Pico chairs. And even John finds them comfortable enough.

[@joiedevivre541]

Total newbie. We purchased our first Pleasure Way yesterday. I use the Alltrails app but would love to know about the others.

[@itsmekaren1884]

Will you share with me the Pleasure Way Forum/ Blog that you have mentioned in several of your videos? Thank you so much 😊 I love your videos!!!

[@FromShetoMe]

There is a PW Facebook group that I don’t follow, and there is a PW Owners group (forum); you can only sign in if you are an owner. But I think there may be other forums for non-owners. A Google search should get you there.

[@itsmekaren1884]

@@FromShetoMe thank you again for all your answers.

[@lauriedriscoll5695]

Would love an app video for newbies!!!!!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

We have never used any of these apps, because you don't need them in Alaska. But, just would love hearing all the ones people use. Getting ready for our big trip down to the lower 48 this summer. I think those apps will come in handy. And as for campsites in CA. With the uptick in folks getting out, will we have a hard time finding campgrounds there this summer?

[@FromShetoMe]

You never know about campsites but most places have a few first come first served sites. But we find you have to arrive pretty early to get those. Stick to the eastern Sierra and you will find an abundance of dispersed camping locations and fewer people. Of course it can get pretty hot in the valleys so stay high and out of the desert.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

@@FromShetoMe Thanks for this response Debbie! The trailer we are bringing is going to be HOT! Like, we are nervous type of HOT. Looking at picking up a rooftop tent as a backup if it gets unbearable.

[@jeep4dirt]

Hi Debbie, We live in Scottsdale and always enjoy your videos. We were planning to again visit Death Valley next week, a place we truly love. However, after watching your latest video we have instead decided to visit Lake Mead Recreation Area for several days. Was there any particular reason that u did not boondock there? We boondock on public land often and would like to boondock at LMRA. Any suggestions? Thx. Jim and Fran

[@FromShetoMe]

When we left Lake Mead, we actually headed over to DV so you may want to do both. The video on that section will be out in a couple weeks. We really enjoyed our stop at the China Ranch Date Farm and the hike that leaves from their parking lot. On this trip, since we were joined by our newbie neighbors, we thought the campground route would be better. We also like to mix it up and the hook up night gave us a chance to recharge our bike batteries. In DV, we dispersed camped. I was surprised to learn that dispersed camping is allowed in the Lake Mead Recreation Area. I wish we had had a chance to check out some of the spots but maybe next time.

[@timsmith7625]

Oh, will be cancelling what few campsites in Alaska and Canada this year and will try for 2022 if they ever open the borders. MT, ID, WY this summers plans. Base camp in Columbia Falls, MT

[@FromShetoMe]

We’ll be spending the summer in the Northwest as well.

[@timsmith7625]

Will keep you posted. Heading out early Jun, arrive Jun 12, spend summer/fall in and around the region exploring. Brandi coming out in Jun until after the 4th hopefully.

[@TroySwezey]

Loved the sound effect at 6:20! ... Have not been to Cottonwood yet though it is on the shortlist as it is only 60ish miles from home and good for a weekend overnighter. Willow Beach is a bit closer to us and is also on the list. ... @pepperprinceton and I were on the tunnel trails on Feb 26th or 27th and my brain tells me I saw John that day. I remember seeing a man on an electric bike and letting him pass. Was that y'all? ... To answer your question, we are pretty savvy on the apps but a video on them would be cool as maybe you will discuss one or two we are not aware of. We generally use AllTrails, Sanidumps, GasBuddy, Waze, and a few others. Mostly that is Brenna's department. ... Another fine video. Thanks for sharing.

[@FromShetoMe]

We were there last week. The weather was fantastic. Such a neat trail.

[@TroySwezey]

@@FromShetoMe Ah, so it was not you two. Got it. Makes sense as I only seem to remember the man though thought maybe you were off filming. But, not you so... ... Yes, indeed it is a cool little hike. ... Brenna and I have stayed on BLM at Government Wash. Will go back to another section as that area is so big and much to see. And now that we have new, fresh tires. ... Looking forward to your next video to see if you did the same.

[@flybyairplane3528]

FROMshe toME, Hello, did you noticed the. ‘Bathtub ring ‘ we were there in either 2003, or 04 @ a convention in VEGAS so 2 bus loads toured the dam, the water seems where it was, (. maybe ) they were going to drill, another uptake line since water was so low Interesting tour even to the generators., how is your new bike motor ? Did you get any vaccines as yet ? Last FRIDAY, I had my first shot MADERNA, next month will get my last one , Happy trails ,Cheers 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@FromShetoMe]

Oh yes, we are both fully vaccinated.

[@brucegillette5713]

Per tech knowledge gap: I am so limited that I don't know about cameras or video equipment. Have no idea of those site? you mentioned etc. So I'm at a zero for knowledge base. My wife and I have always had a trailer, both 5th wheel and hitch. This winter we downsized to a 27 ft pull type to get into smaller camp sites up here in the North land. I have always wanted to video our adventures for our grandkids but just don't know what would be a good starter camera, sounds system, mics etc. I also have a 1973 high top Chevy G2 van I'm working on and one day I will journey out into the big Van Life world for my first time. "isolated in ND"

[@FromShetoMe]

The best camera is a smart phone. I use the iPhone 12 Pro. Don't think for a second that video is about the camera. It isn't. I spent a lot of money to find that out.

[@brucegillette5713]

@@FromShetoMe Thank you for getting back to me. I have a Samsung S20 so I will have to practice with it for a bit. I did notice that everything has to be close or things end up looking very far off. Next question: what computer do you use for uploading and putting on youtube? I have an old HP business desktop.

[@FromShetoMe]

@@brucegillette5713 My software is final cut so I use a MacBook pro. The software can really strain a computer if you don't have enough RAM. I suggest you search for channels that give tips on filmmaking techniques. My favorite is Mobile Motion.

[@brucegillette5713]

@@FromShetoMe Thank you very much.

[@maggiebrattoli383]

Hi Debbie, I haven’t watched the whole video. I have to go on my phone and ask you. How is the 164 hwy? I hate taking El Cajon pass from LA to Las Vegas. Is the 164 as steep and crowded as El Cajón? Thanks in advance for you help. Now I’ll continue watching your video. I’m in Las Vegas by the way. You are more than welcome to stay on my rv driveway.

[@FromShetoMe]

Thanks Maggie. We only took the 164 from Interstate 15. I would have to look at a map to even see if it goes beyond that point. But from the 15, it is a beautiful drive. I know what you mean about the Cajon pass. We rarely go that way because we are usually heading up the 395 and prefer Hwy 14.

[@bertkelly7650]

2 weeks!? That's what that woman said in total recall.

[@judyhays2413]

One more question: What is the "access pass" you mentioned at the end? Is it the same as the national parks senior pass? Many thanks.

[@FromShetoMe]

Yes, the senior pass.

[@Anne-qv7ve]

I have an odd question. John had a Smoky the Bear tshirt on in one of your videos. Do you have a link to where you purchased it? Thank you.

[@FromShetoMe]

He got it at a shop in the Eastern Sierra. I think this is it: wildtribute.com/products/smokey-the-groovy-bear-t-shirt

[@Anne-qv7ve]

Thank you. Cool shirt!

[@gracegarden1]

Is that Owen singing at that restored town?

[@FromShetoMe]

You bet!

[@gracegarden1]

And he's playing all those instruments at once! :)

[@FromShetoMe]

LOL. A Jack of all trades.

[@rickyt5363]

need info on apps

[@ericvaneck4296]

I was wondering why a person can’t post reviews or new boondocking areas on Campendium, do you have to have the paid version?

[@FromShetoMe]

I rarely use Campendium. Are you on a desktop or mobile device?

[@ericvaneck4296]

@@FromShetoMe I’ve tried both and can’t post reviews or add a location.

[@FromShetoMe]

@@ericvaneck4296 Interesting. If you want to share places on iOverlander, you'll probably have better luck.

[@ericvaneck4296]

@@FromShetoMe I think that is where I ended up posting them. I hope someone else might give us an answer.

[@Eminem2good166]

Did you know that 105 people died there, it's the most dangerous nation Park ever

[@FromShetoMe]

Not surprised. Water, alcohol, lots of young people; not a good mix.

[@Eminem2good166]

@@FromShetoMe yeah, basically that's the only bad things there

[@joelshattlesjr1733]

Thanks John and Debbie. A great journey!

[@richardross3172]

That ghost town was awesome! (Added to my bucket list) Thank you!!!!!