VALLEY OF FIRE STATE PARK
Valley of Fire State Park, located in the Mojave Desert approximately 50 miles northeast of Las Vegas, Nevada, is renowned for its stunning red sandstone formations. Spanning over 46,000 acres and established as a state park on March 26th, 1935 making it Nevada's oldest and largest state park.
The main features include petrified trees and petroglyphs dating back more than 2,000 years. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails that wind through the vibrant landscape showcasing unique rock structures like Elephant Rock and Arch Rock. The fiery appearance of these rocks peaks at sunrise or sunset when they seem to glow with intense color due to their high iron content reflecting sunlight.
With facilities such as campgrounds equipped for visitors wishing an extended stay amidst nature's artwork; Valley of Fire also offers picnic areas set against a backdrop perfect for photography enthusiasts seeking dramatic shots under blue skies contrasted by crimson geology.
Valley of Fire State Park is located only six miles from Lake Mead and 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas via Interstate 15 and on exit 75. Valley of Fire is Nevada's oldest and largest state park, dedicated 1935. The valley derives its name from the red sandstone formations and the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert. Ancient trees and early man are represented throughout the park by areas of petrified wood and 3,000 year-old Indian petroglyph. Popular activities include camping, hiking, picnicking and photography. The park offers a full-scale visitor center with extensive interpretive displays. Several group use areas are also available. The park is open all year.
The Valley of Fire derives its name from red sandstone formations, formed from great shifting sand dunes during the age of dinosaurs, 150 million years ago. Complex uplifting and faulting of the region, followed by extensive erosion, have created the present landscape. Other important rock formations include limestones, shales, and conglomerates. Prehistoric users of the Valley of Fire included the Basket Maker people and later the Anasazi Pueblo farmers from the nearby fertile Moapa Valley. The span of approximate occupation has been dated from 300 B.C. to 1150 A.D. Their visits probably involved hunting, food gathering, and religious ceremonies, although scarcity of water would have limited the length of their stay. Fine examples of rock art left by these ancient peoples can be found at several sites within the park.
CampingRent-A-Camp Sitesyes
The Visitor Center provides exhibits on the geology, ecology, prehistory and history of the park and the nearby region. It is strongly recommended that each visitor make this an early stop after entering the park. Postcards, books and souvenirs are on sale for your convenience. The visitor center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 400 p.m. The rest of the park closes at sunset.
There are two campgrounds with a combined total of 72 units. Campsites are equipped with shaded tables, grills, water and restrooms. A dump station and showers are available. All campsites are first-come, first-served. A camping limit of 14 days in a 30-day period is enforced.
RV sites with power and water hookups are available.
There are three group-use campsites, each accommodating up to 45 people there is no minimum person count. These sites are available for overnight camping by reservation only. Reservations can be made Monday-Friday from 9am-4pm by telephone at 702.397.2088.