While Las Vegas is widely recognized for its vibrant nightlife, luxurious dining, and all-inclusive resorts, the surrounding mountainous regions of Southern Nevada offer a contrasting experience. These areas are rich in nature, featuring lush forest trails, rugged landscapes, and diverse plant and animal species.
Campgrounds in and around the Las Vegas Valley provide compelling opportunities for year-round outdoor exploration. Campers are advised to make reservations online ahead of their trips. Although some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, a majority require reservations to guarantee availability.
A prime destination is the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, situated just to the west of Las Vegas. This scenic area boasts four campgrounds, including those near Lee Canyon, Deer Creek, and Fletcher Canyon, all serving as gateways to numerous hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. Campsite fees start at $25 per night.
During a recent Friday afternoon in June, Brian and Alex Frantz, who live only half an hour from McWilliams Campground, were excited for their first camping trip in two years. They unpacked their gear, eager to disconnect from technology and immerse themselves in nature. “We’re so close to Las Vegas, and you come here, it’s almost like you hit the Sierras,” Brian noted. “It’s nice to get away and disconnect and enjoy nature.”
For those seeking a more secluded experience, dispersed camping is a fantastic option. Popular sites such as Mack’s Canyon, Lovell Canyon, and Champion Road allow campers to pitch tents and enjoy campfires, provided the weather allows it. Campers should keep in mind that these areas lack essential amenities including water, restrooms, and trash disposal, so thorough preparation is a must. Remember to carry everything needed for a wilderness camping experience and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Another great outdoor option is Lake Mead National Recreation Area, located at 10 Lakeshore Road, Boulder City. With more than 900 camping and RV sites available, Lake Mead attracts over 270,000 campers each year. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including scenic drives at sunset, hiking the Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail, or engaging in water sports like boating, kayaking, and fishing.
Most campgrounds around the recreation area come equipped with essential amenities such as restrooms, running water, and Wi-Fi, alongside grills, picnic tables, and shaded gathering areas for cooking. The entrance fees start at $25 per vehicle, while campsite fees generally begin at $20 per night. For reservations, visit nps.gov/lake/planyourvisit/campgrounds.htm.
The Desert National Wildlife Refuge presents an adventurous route for campers with high-clearance vehicles. Spanning 1.6 million acres, this refuge is home to hundreds of plant and wildlife species, including the elusive desert bighorn sheep. Visitors are encouraged to stop by the refuge’s visitors center at Corn Creek, where five short hiking trails await exploration before venturing 28 miles to the Desert Pass Campground amid rugged terrain.
This campground features six first-come, first-served sites, each with a picnic table, fire ring, tent pad, and vault toilets. At an elevation exceeding 6,000 feet, it remains cool enough for camping throughout most of the year. Refuge manager Michael Matthews highlighted the area’s long-standing protection since 1936, assuring visitors that they will encounter vegetation and wildlife relatively untouched by modern civilization.
Campers can enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities including hiking, backpacking, and navigating backcountry roads leading to sites like Gass Peak, Joe May Canyon, and Hidden Forest Cabin. Due to the refuge’s remote location, Matthews advises creating a safety plan and bringing a satellite device, as cell service is limited throughout the area. Thankfully, camping within the refuge is free, and sites come equipped with essential facilities.
For those yearning for a more established campground experience, Red Rock Canyon Campground becomes accessible as summer ends, offering over 60 campsites for public use. Visitors can take in the beautiful scenic loop, hike numerous trails, or even climb with a guide. This campground features running water and toilets, and camping fees start at $12 per night. Reservations can be made at redrockcanyonlv.org/camping-at-red-rock-canyon.
Additionally, Valley of Fire State Park, located at 29450 Valley of Fire Road in Overton, features a unique ‘Mars-like’ landscape with three campgrounds near Arch Rock, Atlatl Rock, and Beehive Rock. The park’s eleven trails, showcasing historic petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock and Mouse’s Tank, are popular among visitors, particularly in late fall and early spring when temperatures are milder. Each vehicle incurs a $10 entrance fee, with campsite charges beginning at $20 per vehicle per night. Reservations should be made at least 72 hours prior to visits due to demand.
As camping experiences in Southern Nevada beckon nature enthusiasts, it’s crucial to come prepared with adequate supplies, including food and water, seasonal gear for temperature fluctuations, and a safe hiking plan. Whether venturing into the majesty of Spring Mountains, the exciting water activities at Lake Mead, or the untouched beauty of the Desert National Wildlife Refuge, nature awaits just beyond the dazzling lights and entertainment of Las Vegas.
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