Key Highlights:
- Main Parking Garage: The Nevada-side garage costs $10 per vehicle and provides convenient access to the Visitor Center.
- RV and Oversized Parking: Arizona Lot 9 accommodates larger vehicles and trailers for $10.
- Free Parking: Arizona Lots 13 and 14 offer free parking but require a longer, uphill walk.
- Parking Hours: The Nevada garage and Arizona Lot 9 operate from 8:00 AM to 5:15 PM.
- Security Checkpoint: All vehicles must pass through the Nevada security checkpoint before reaching the dam.
- Free Attractions: Walking across Hoover Dam and the nearby Memorial Bridge is free.
Hoover Dam parking costs $10 per vehicle at the main Nevada-side garage and Arizona Lot 9, while free parking is available in Arizona Lots 13 and 14. The best option depends on your vehicle, budget, and how far you are comfortable walking. Visitors driving standard cars should consider the Nevada garage because it is closest to the Visitor Center. RVs, trailers, and oversized vehicles must use designated Arizona parking areas. Before arriving, travelers should understand the parking layout, operating hours, security checkpoint, and walking distances between the lots and the dam.
Hoover Dam Parking Fees & Locations
Hoover Dam has several parking areas on the Nevada and Arizona sides.
| Parking Area | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Nevada Parking Garage | $10 | Cars, Families, Easy Access |
| Arizona Lot 9 | $10 | RVs, Trailers, Oversized Vehicles |
| Arizona Lot 13 | Free | Budget Parking |
| Arizona Lot 14 | Free | Budget Parking |
| Memorial Bridge Parking | Free | Bridge Viewpoint |
The Nevada garage and Arizona Lot 9 are generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:15 PM.
Parking availability depends on visitor demand, particularly during weekends, holidays, and summer.
Nevada Parking Garage: Best Overall Option
The main Hoover Dam parking garage is located on the Nevada side, near the Visitor Center.
This is the most convenient option for visitors arriving in standard cars, SUVs, or rental vehicles.
The garage provides covered parking and relatively easy access to the dam’s main attractions.
Nevada Garage Parking Details
- Parking Fee: $10 per vehicle
- Hours: 8:00 AM–5:15 PM
- Location: Nevada side, near the Visitor Center
- Best For: Standard passenger vehicles
Visitors can use stairs, escalators, or elevators to reach the Visitor Center ticketing area.
The garage cannot accommodate vehicles exceeding approximately 10.5 feet in height or 23 feet in length.
If you are driving an RV or towing a trailer, use the designated Arizona parking areas instead.
Arizona Lot 9: Best for RVs and Oversized Vehicles
Arizona Lot 9 is located across the dam on the Arizona side.
It accommodates vehicles that cannot enter the Nevada parking garage, including motorhomes and certain vehicles towing trailers.
Arizona Lot 9 Parking Details
- Parking Fee: $10 per vehicle
- Hours: 8:00 AM–5:15 PM
- Location: Arizona side of Hoover Dam
- Best For: RVs and oversized vehicles
Visitors can walk back across the dam to reach the Nevada-side Visitor Center.
The route is exposed to direct sunlight, making water and comfortable walking shoes important during summer.
Oversized vehicles must follow posted parking instructions and security requirements.
Free Hoover Dam Parking: Lots 13 and 14
Visitors who want to avoid the $10 parking fee can use Arizona Lots 13 and 14.
These upper parking areas are located farther from the main Visitor Center.
Both lots are free, making them useful for budget-conscious travelers.
Is Free Parking Worth It?
Free parking works best for visitors comfortable walking uphill and downhill.
The distance varies depending on the lot and available parking space.
The route includes exposed sections without much shade.
During summer, temperatures frequently exceed 100°F, making the walk more demanding.
Families with young children or visitors with mobility limitations may prefer the Nevada parking garage.
Hoover Dam Parking for Disabled Visitors
The Nevada garage offers accessible parking and access to the Visitor Center.
The Bureau of Reclamation has also published information about complimentary parking for visitors displaying a valid disability placard.
Confirm the current policy with the parking attendant when arriving.
Wheelchairs are available for rent at the garage for $5, according to official visitor information.
The main Visitor Center includes accessible routes, although some guided tour areas have restrictions.
Hoover Dam Security Checkpoint
All vehicles entering Hoover Dam must pass through the Nevada security checkpoint.
Security officers may inspect the vehicle’s trunk, hood, and storage compartments.
Important Vehicle Restrictions
- Firearms, explosives, and fireworks are prohibited.
- Drones are prohibited on Hoover Dam property.
- Marijuana is prohibited.
- Box trailers are generally not permitted.
- Semi-trucks cannot enter the dam property.
- Drivers cannot stop or unload passengers on top of the dam.
Visitors who refuse vehicle inspection will not be allowed beyond the checkpoint.
Arriving earlier in the morning may help reduce delays during busy travel periods.
Free Parking at the Memorial Bridge
Visitors can also park near the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.
This parking area provides access to the pedestrian walkway overlooking Hoover Dam.
Walking across the bridge is free.
The viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the dam, Colorado River, and surrounding canyon.
However, the bridge parking area is separate from the main Visitor Center parking facilities.
Visitors planning to tour the dam should consider the additional travel between these locations.
Is It Free to Visit Hoover Dam?
Walking across the top of Hoover Dam is free.
Visitors only need to pay for parking if they choose a paid lot.
Additional fees apply for the Visitor Center and guided tours.
| Attraction | Admission Price |
|---|---|
| Walk Across Hoover Dam | Free |
| Memorial Bridge Walkway | Free |
| Self-Guided Visitor Center | $15 |
| Guided Power Plant Tour | $25 Adults |
| Guided Dam Tour | $40 |
The Guided Dam Tour is available only through on-site ticket purchases.
Hoover Dam Parking and Visitor Hours
Hoover Dam is open to the public daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
The Visitor Center operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Visitor Center doors close at 4:15 PM.
The Nevada parking garage closes earlier than the dam roadway, so visitors planning an evening visit should check parking availability carefully.
For official parking maps and current information, visit the Bureau of Reclamation Hoover Dam website.
Conclusion
Hoover Dam offers paid and free parking on both sides of the Nevada-Arizona border. The Nevada garage is the most convenient choice for standard vehicles and costs $10. Arizona Lot 9 accommodates oversized vehicles for the same fee, while Lots 13 and 14 provide free parking with a longer walk. Visitors should check parking hours, arrive early during busy periods, and prepare for vehicle security screening. Choosing the appropriate lot can make visiting the dam easier and more affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Hoover Dam parking cost?
The Nevada parking garage and Arizona Lot 9 charge $10 per vehicle. Arizona Lots 13 and 14 offer free parking.
Is there free parking at Hoover Dam?
Yes. Lots 13 and 14 on the Arizona side provide free parking, but visitors must walk farther to reach the dam and Visitor Center.
Where should I park an RV at Hoover Dam?
RVs and oversized vehicles should use designated Arizona-side parking areas, including Lot 9, which costs $10.
What time does Hoover Dam parking open?
The Nevada parking garage and Arizona Lot 9 generally operate from 8:00 AM to 5:15 PM.
Can you park at Hoover Dam overnight?
The main parking garage and Lot 9 close at 5:15 PM. Do not plan on overnight parking without confirming permission from the facility.
Is it free to walk across Hoover Dam?
Yes. Walking across the dam is free. Parking, Visitor Center access, and guided tours may have separate charges.
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