Valley of Fire State Park
RV Guide

Since the Valley of Fire State Park is so massive, a great way to explore a lot of the area without having to break a sweat is to go for a drive. The Valley of Fire Highway is the most common way to drive in the park since it is the only road that runs through the park. If you are traveling by RV, and you don't have a tow vehicle, we recommend that you do this drive before you set up camp or at the end of your trip so that you don't have to pack down and set up camp again.

Valley of Fire State Park offers five fascinating day-use areas in the heart of stunning rock formations. RV visitors can enjoy their meals while gazing at the beauty of these natural attractions. For a quick family gateway, visitors can choose to stay in either of the two uniquely designed historic cabins constructed using sandstones by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Visitors can also picnic at the Atlatl Rock, Seven Sisters, Mouse Tank Trailhead, and White Domes. There are restrooms at each picnic area, so you won't have to worry about finding a spot to do your business if you are making use of one of the picnic areas.

Covered by widely spaced desert plants such as brittlebush and cactus species, there is little to no shade in the park, meaning that most wildlife in the area is nocturnal. However, this does not mean the park is devoid of animals. Occasionally you will come across reptiles such as snakes, lizards, or mammals such as bighorn sheep, antelopes, and jackrabbits. On rare occasions, desert tortoises may be sighted. If you are a birdwatching fan, you may also be able to spot some sparrows, ravens, and roadrunners.

The stunning rocks in Valley of Fire State Park are a magnet for RV guests. Although rock climbing is permitted only in specific areas, it is super fun for kids who are interested in a challenge. Most of the rock formations are easy to climb and give stunning views of the park's geological formations. Please note that no roped climbing is allowed within the park and that you should check-in at the visitor center before you do so to make sure that you aren't breaking any park rules.

Due to the summer's hot weather, the Interpretive Programs at Valley of Fire State Park are usually held in the first and last few months of the year. Programs are typically family-friendly and consist of events such as guided hikes, historical talks, and activities that celebrate the local Native American culture. If you are interested in knowing what programs are happening during your visit, you can check out the events section of the Nevada State Parks website or ask a park ranger.

Hiking is the best way to experience the geological wonders of the Valley of Fire State Park. The canyon's red, pink, and orange sandstones are highlights of the park. Since the park is very humid, rocky hikers should pack sunscreen, plenty of water, a hat, and hiking shoes in their RV. Most hikes are very short and doable, averaging about a mile long with minimal elevation. Of the 12 official trails, the nearly two-mile Fire Wave trail, one-mile White Domes Loop, and Rainbow Vista are most interesting, offering incredible views.

There are other less explored but equally beautiful trails to be discovered, including the quarter-mile hike to the Pink Canyon and the five miles leading to the Natural Arches. During the spring, the park trails are decorated by the flowering of desert plants such as Desert Mallow, Beaver Tail, and Brittle brush. Mountain biking is also permitted on paved trails and in some sections of the Prospect Trail and Old Arrowhead Arch Trail.

Love photography? The entire Valley of Fire State Park is covered by beautiful rock formations, narrow slot canyons, and numerous petroglyphs, which make great spots for photography tours. There are endless opportunities for taking pictures here. The most incredible venues with unbeatable backdrops include the Beehives, Arch Rock, and Fire Wave. Fire Canyon and Silica Dome are perhaps the most attractive formations. Given its towering height, you can get to capture a fabulous sunrise and sunset at Atlatl Rock.

The Valley of Fire State Park Visitor Center is packed with history, and it is a great first stop for your adventure. The center houses interesting exhibits ranging from geology to ecology, and the staff is on-site to answer any questions that you may have. In addition to gathering information about the park’s activities and history, you can grab your map and purchase some souvenirs, postcards, and books here, too. The Visitor Center is open daily year-round.

Did you enjoy reading this guide? For more Nevada desert adventures, check out our Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and Lake Mead National Recreation Area guides.