Only 17 miles from the Las Vegas Strip, the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area makes visitors feel they are far from the neon lights of the city.
This nearly 200,000 acre park features red-orange toned rock formations, dozens of hiking trails, a gorgeous 13-mile scenic drive, and a top-notch visitor center. Spend several relaxing days at Red Rock Canyon (and pop into Vegas if you like!) or spend a day here en route to other outdoor adventures.
[Check out our recent blogs: 7 Stunning National Parks near Las Vegas, Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon Road Trip, and What are Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks?.]
Red Rock Canyon is a nature lover’s, hiker’s and geologist’s dream!
Where is Red Rock Canyon?
Red Rock Canyon is situated in Clark County, Nevada, about 17 miles—a 20-minute RV drive—west of Las Vegas.
Planning your Trip to Red Rock Canyon
Between October and May, reservations are required for timed entry passes. America the Beautiful National Park passes are accepted and can also be purchased online.
Red Rock Canyon Weather
This dramatic Mojave Desert area follows the weather patterns of nearby Las Vegas. Summer temperatures can reach 90-100 degrees and more, though temperatures drop significantly at night. Spring and fall are perhaps the best times to visit, when temperatures are mild.
Camping in Red Rock Canyon
All 65+ campsites (six RV-only and 60+ sites for tents and RVs) at the Red Rock campground require reservations, so book as far in advance as possible. Reservations open 6 months prior and must be made no less than 48 hours in advance.
Due to extreme heat in the summer, the campground is closed June–July. This requires dry camping (also known as “boondocking” or “off-grid camping”):
no electric/sewer/water hook ups,
no dump station, and
no shower or laundry facilities.
They do offer vault toilets, trash disposal, and potable water.
Rent an RV in Las Vegas from Blacksford with a generator, fill up your water and propane tanks, and empty your black and gray tanks beforehand, and you should be fine.
What to do in Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon has a LOT of fun activities for all ages and abilities. From the informative Visitor Center you can learn about opportunities for hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
They also offer guided hikes and educational programs throughout the year. Horseback riding is available through private companies which you can learn about at the Visitor Center.
Stop by the Red Rock Visitor Center
The Visitor Center is open from 9 am–4:30 pm daily and is a great place to learn about great hikes. Indoor and outdoor exhibits, as well as native plant displays and living Desert Tortoise habitats make this a great place to start your visit. They also offer special educational programs throughout the year.
Take the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Loop Drive
The 13-mile scenic drive is one of the biggest highlights of the trip and is a great way to see the park and get oriented for other activities. You can also do the drive on a bicycle.
You will experience gorgeous vistas, scenic overlooks and many trailheads. Timed reservations are required October 1–May 31. An entrance fee is required year-round.
Hike in Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon has more than 28 designated trails for all ability levels, all of which offer beautiful views of the colorful desert landscape.
Here are three of the most popular trails:
Lost Creek/Children’s Discovery Trail - this 0.8 mile easy walk is great for all ages and abilities. The self-guided interpretive walk includes petroglyphs, lessons on desert life, and great views. Between December and April, you will be treated to a gorgeous waterfall.
Calico Tanks Trail - this 2.2 mile moderate level trail takes you past an old Paiute roasting pit and sandstone steps. The trail requires some scrambling over rocks and has a 400 foot elevation gain, but the sweeping views make it worth the effort.
Calico Hills Trail - this trial can be accessed at several points and can be as short as two miles and as long as six miles, depending on your starting point. It has 1,100 feet of elevation gain and is considered moderate to strenuous. The views are spectacular as you skirt the sandstone hills.
Bike and Climb in Red Rock Canyon
Both biking and rock climbing are becoming increasingly popular at Red Rock Canyon. Climbers from around the world and at all levels flock here to climb the giant boulders and sheer rock faces.
For pedalers, both road and mountain biking are permitted in designated areas around the park. Bikes are not allowed on hiking trails – only on designated bike trails and roads.
Visit Red Rock Canyon in a Blacksford RV
Escape the neon and noise of Vegas with a trip to nearby Red Rock Canyon, where you’ll feel miles away. Camp in a brand new Blacksford RV or camper van to experience nature close to Vegas!
