Table of Contents
Where is Valley of Fire State Park located?
Valley of Fire State Park is located in Moapa Valley, NV 89040, along the Valley of Fire Highway. It’s about 15 miles southwest of Overton and 50 miles northeast of Las Vegas.
How far is Valley of Fire from Las Vegas?
The park is about a one-hour drive from the Las Vegas Strip via I‑15 North and Exit 75, making it a popular day trip.
What are the park hours?
Valley of Fire is open daily from sunrise to sunset. The visitor center is open from approximately 9 AM to 4:30 PM. Campgrounds are open 24/7 for registered campers.
What is the entrance fee for Valley of Fire State Park? Is there a per-person fee?
The entrance fee is $10 per vehicle for Nevada residents and $15 for non-residents. Fees are charged per vehicle, but walk-in visitors, bicyclists, and motorcyclists pay $2–$3 per person.
Do I need tickets for Valley of Fire attractions?
No extra tickets are required. Your entrance fee covers all hikes, trails, and scenic points. Guided tours from Las Vegas may charge separately.
What are the best things to do in Valley of Fire?
Top activities include hiking the Fire Wave sandstone formation, exploring White Domes and Rainbow Vista, seeing petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock, capturing photos of the famous Elephant Rock formation, and taking a scenic drive through the park.
What are the most popular trails in Valley of Fire?
- Fire Wave Trail (1.5 mi)
- White Domes Trail (1.1 mi)
- Mouse’s Tank Trail (0.8 mi)
- Rainbow Vista Trail (1 mi)
- Elephant Rock Trail (0.3 mi)
Is camping available at Valley of Fire?
Yes. Arch Rock and Atlatl Rock Campgrounds offer a total of 72 first-come, first-served sites for tents and RVs. Some sites include hookups.
What amenities do the campgrounds offer?
Campgrounds feature picnic tables, fire pits, grills, drinking water, restrooms, and coin-operated showers. Some RV sites include electric hookups.
Are there guided tours from Las Vegas?
Yes. Many companies offer half-day and full-day tours with hotel pickup, guided hikes, and sometimes meals or photo sessions.
Where can I stay near Valley of Fire?
Nearby lodging is available in Overton (15 mi) and Mesquite (45 mi). Many visitors choose to stay in Las Vegas and drive to the park.
Where can I find photos of Valley of Fire?
Explore #ValleyOfFire on Instagram or visit the Nevada State Parks official gallery. Iconic locations like Fire Wave and Elephant Rock are favorite photography spots.
Is the Fire Wave Trail open all year?
No. The Fire Wave, Seven Wonders Loop, and surrounding trails close from mid-May to late September due to high temperatures and visitor safety concerns.
How do I visit Arch Rock?
Arch Rock is located along the Scenic Loop Drive. It’s viewable from the road, and a short walk gets you closer for photos.
What is Elephant Rock?
Elephant Rock is a naturally eroded sandstone formation resembling an elephant. It’s located near the east entrance and is a short, easy 0.3-mile loop hike.
When is the best time to visit Valley of Fire? Are there seasonal trail closures?
The best time to visit is October through April, when temperatures are cooler. Due to dangerous heat, several trails (including Fire Wave and Seven Wonders) close from mid-May through late September.
Are there petroglyphs in Valley of Fire?
Yes. You can view ancient Native American petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock and Mouse’s Tank Trail. Interpretive signs explain their history.
Is Valley of Fire good for families?
Absolutely. With short trails, picnic areas, and educational signs, the park is great for families with children. Be sure to bring water, sun protection, and snacks.
Can I fly a drone in the park?
Recreational drones are banned. Commercial use requires a special permit from Nevada State Parks.
Is Valley of Fire wheelchair accessible?
Yes, partially. The visitor center, Seven Sisters picnic area, and some scenic pullouts are accessible, but most trails are not due to soft sand and uneven terrain.
Are there picnic areas in the park?
Yes. Designated picnic spots are available at Atlatl Rock, Seven Sisters, and Mouse’s Tank, each with tables, grills, and nearby restrooms.
What should I pack for a day trip?
Bring plenty of water (at least 1 gallon per person), sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, sturdy hiking shoes, snacks, and offline maps or a GPS device.
Are restrooms available in the park?
Yes. There are flush toilets at the visitor center and campgrounds, and vault toilets at most trailheads and picnic areas.
Will I have cell phone service in the park?
Cell coverage is limited. You may get a signal near the entrances, but most of the park has no reliable service. Download maps in advance.
Which trails close in summer?
From May 15 to late September, these trails are closed: Fire Wave, Seven Wonders Loop, Pastel Canyon, Arrowhead, Pinnacles, White Domes, and others. Closures are for visitor safety during extreme heat.