Red sandstone formations rise from the Mojave Desert floor, shaped by wind and water over 150 million years. Ancient petroglyphs and desert wildlife dot this 40,000-acre landscape in Nevada.
Valley of Fire State Park, located 50 miles northeast of Las Vegas, is Nevada's oldest and largest state park spanning over 40,000 acres of red Aztec sandstone formations. Walk among 2,500-year-old petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock, hike the striped red and white patterns of Fire Wave trail, and explore the pink limestone walls of Pastel Canyon. The park's distinct landscape includes natural stone arches, narrow slot canyons, and unique formations like Elephant Rock and the Beehives - a backdrop that has appeared in movies like Total Recall and Star Trek Generations.
Drive north from Las Vegas on I-15 for approximately 35 miles and take Exit 75 toward Valley of Fire. Continue 17 miles east along Valley of Fire Highway to reach the park entrance. Access the park through either the west or east entrance, both connecting to the main park road. The drive from Las Vegas takes about 45 minutes. Entry costs $15 per vehicle for non-Nevada residents ($10 for Nevada residents).
Plan your visit between October and April when temperatures range from 54°F to 75°F (12-24°C). Summer temperatures reach 120°F (49°C), making hiking unsafe. The park opens daily from sunrise to sunset, with the visitor center operating from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Morning and late afternoon light creates strong shadows on the rock formations, making these times ideal for photography.
Walk the Fire Wave Trail, a 1.5-mile round-trip route across striped sandstone formations with moderate elevation changes. The White Domes Loop covers 1.8 miles through a former movie set and a narrow canyon, including 150 feet of elevation change. For an easier walk, take the 0.75-mile Mouse's Tank Trail, a flat path to a natural water basin with petroglyphs visible along the canyon walls. Carry at least one gallon of water per person during warm months.
Ancient Basketmaker cultures and Early Pueblo people created petroglyphs throughout the park 2,500 years ago. Access a concentrated collection of rock art by climbing the metal staircase at Atlatl Rock. The distinctive red sandstone formed from ancient sand dunes during the Jurassic period, approximately 150 million years ago. Iron oxide gives the stone its red color. The park's terrain varies in elevation from 1,320 to 3,009 feet above sea level.
Choose between Atlatl and Arch Rock campgrounds, with 72 total campsites equipped with shaded tables, grills, and water access. RV sites include power and water hookups for an additional $10 per night beyond the base camping fee of $25 for non-residents ($20 for Nevada residents). Stop at the visitor center to see geological exhibits and pick up free maps. Rest and eat at five shaded picnic areas with restrooms: Seven Sisters, White Domes, the Cabins, Atlatl Rock, and near Mouse's Tank trailhead.
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