Valley of Fire State Park is located less than 60 miles from Las Vegas, NV in the Mojave Desert. The 35,000-acre park takes its name from the red sandstone formations that seem to be on fire as they reflect the sun’s rays. A 10-mile scenic road runs through the center of the park, connecting the east and west entrances. The road was designated a Nevada Scenic Byway in 1995.

  • What can guests find at the Visitor Center?
    • Guests are encouraged to begin with a trip to the Visitor Center, which provides exhibits on the park’s history, flora and fauna, and geology.
  • What amenities does the park offer?
    • The park has numerous camping facilities, picnic areas, and overlooks that may all be reached by the scenic road.
  • Can visitors hold wedding ceremonies at the park?
    • Yes, the park offers four wedding ceremony locations, including the Seven Sisters rock formations and the Rainbow Vista overlook.
  • What types of plants and animals can be found in the park?
    • Typical flora includes cactus varieties such as cholla and beaver tail, as well as desert shrubs.
    • Most wildlife is nocturnal, including the bobcat, coyote, jackrabbit, and antelope ground squirrel. However, lizards and Bighorn Sheep may be seen during the day.
    • The park’s rarest resident is the Desert Tortoise, which is a protected species and Nevada’s state reptile.
  • What are the most famous rock formations in the park?
    • Arch Rock – A recognized geological feature shaped over millions of years by wind and rain.
    • The Beehives – A unique example of geologic cross bedding, where lines cross the stone in different directions.
    • Balanced Rock – A remarkable natural formation located just outside the Visitor Center.
  • What historical landmarks are in the park?
    • The Cabins – Historic sandstone brick cabins built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The site is now a picnic area.
    • John J. Clark Memorial – A white stone cross atop a brick podium, commemorating a Civil War veteran who died of thirst in 1915 while searching for water.
  • What are some of the hiking trails in the park?
    • Mouse’s Tank (Petroglyph Canyon Trail) – A half-mile loop named after a Southern Paiute Indian called “Little Mouse” who allegedly hid there in the 1890s after killing two prospectors.
    • White Domes Trail – An easy 30-minute hike with a 200-foot elevation gain. The trailhead is six miles past the Visitor Center and includes an abandoned movie set from the 1966 film The Professionals.
    • Atlatl Rock Trail – A one-mile loop that takes visitors past ancient petroglyphs demonstrating the use of the atlatl (a spear-throwing tool). The trailhead is two miles from the west entrance.
  • What is the history of Valley of Fire State Park?
    • Dedicated in 1935, Valley of Fire is Nevada’s first state park.
    • It received National Natural Landmark status in 1968 and is recognized as Nevada Historical Marker #150.
    • Many of the park’s main features, such as the campgrounds, trails, and roads, were built between 1933 and the mid-1940s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
  • What movies were filmed in Valley of Fire State Park?
    • Viva Las Vegas (1963) starring Elvis Presley.
    • Total Recall (1990) starring Arnold Schwarzenegger – The park was used for Mars landscape scenes.
    • Star Trek: Generations – The park’s Silica Dome served as Captain James T. Kirk’s death and burial site.
  • What ongoing programs and special events are available?
    • The park is a popular location for weddings and photo tours due to its scenic rock formations and vibrant red colors.
    • Photo Tours – 90-minute photography sessions with a professional photographer, available through a third-party vendor.
  • What attractions are located near Valley of Fire State Park?
    • Lake Mead National Recreation Area – Directly adjacent to Valley of Fire.
    • Las Vegas – Located 50 miles southwest of the park.
    • Overton, Nevada – The closest town, located 16 miles north of the park.
  • What is the park’s contact information?
    • 29450 Valley of Fire Road, Overton, NV 89040
    • Phone: 702-397-2088

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