In this article, you can read about a list of national parks near Las Vegas(Road trips from Las Vegas to National parks) with details of distance, suggested routes, commuting time, and things to do.
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There are many stunning national parks around Las Vegas, and protected areas are within reasonable driving distance; hence, they are recommended to visit during your visit to Las Vegas. Here’s a list with approximate distances, recommended routes, commuting times, and highlights.
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National Parks Near Las Vegas – Road Trips From Las Vegas To National Parks
Planning road trips from Las Vegas to national parks(National parks near Vegas) unveils a scenic journey through captivating desert vistas, towering red rock formations, and natural wonders, making for a memorable and enriching travel experience.
Grand Canyon National Park (West Rim)
Distance from Las Vegas: About 130 miles southeast of Las Vegas
Route: Take US-93 S and then follow signs to Grand Canyon West
Commuting Time: Approximately 2 hours
Things to do: Skywalk, helicopter tours, scenic views of the Grand Canyon & Colorado River, Hike to Guano Point & Eagle Point, boat ride on the Colorado River, Visit the Hualapai Ranch for a taste of the Old West, ziplining and stargazing.
Scenic Stopovers – Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Hoover Dam, Historic Route 66 in Kingman, Hackberry General Store, and the Hualapai Ranch
Campgrounds – Grand Canyon Caverns RV Park or Hualapai Lodge.
Best Hotel Stay – Grand Canyon Western Ranch
The Grand Canyon National Park West Rim is one of the most famous National Parks Near Vegas. It is worth visiting for its iconic Skywalk, which offers a thrilling glass-bottomed bridge experience, and its unique cultural immersion with the Hualapai Tribe, which provides a distinct perspective on the Grand Canyon’s awe-inspiring beauty.
The combination of natural wonders and cultural encounters makes it a must-visit National Parks Close To Las Vegas.
Death Valley National Park – National Parks Close To Las Vegas
Distance from Las Vegas: About 120 miles northwest of Las Vegas (Furnace Creek Visitor Center)
Route: Take US-95 N and then follow signs to Death Valley
Commuting Time: Approximately 2 hours
Things to do: Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, Dante’s View, Artist’s Palette. The most scenic route is from Lone Pine to Furnace Creek
Campgrounds – Furnace Creek Campground, Sunset Campground, Texas Springs Campground, Mesquite Spring Campground, Emigrant Campground, Wildrose Campground, Thorndike Campground and Mahogany Flat Campground.
Best Hotel Stay – Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel, Longstreet Inn, Casino, and RV Resort (Amargosa Valley), or Saddle West Hotel, Casino & RV Park (Pahrump).
Death Valley National Park is worth visiting for its surreal and diverse landscapes, featuring the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin, and breathtaking sights like Zabriskie Point, offering a unique and otherworldly experience near Las Vegas. The park’s extreme beauty and geological wonders make it a compelling destination for nature enthusiasts.
Great Basin National Park
Distance from Las Vegas: Approximately 300 miles north
Route: Take US-93 N and then follow signs to the park
Commuting Time: Around 4.5 to 5 hours
Things to do: Lehman Caves tour, Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, stargazing (designated Dark Sky Park), Bristlecone Trail, Glacier Trail, and Wheeler Peak Summit Trail.
Campgrounds – Wheeler Peak Campground, Lower Lehman Creek Campground, Upper Lehman Creek Campground, or Baker Creek Campground.
Best Hotel Stay – Border Inn Casino, Baker, Hidden Canyon Retreat (Baker, NV), Hotel Nevada & Gambling Hall (Ely, NV) or Prospector Hotel and Casino (Ely, NV).
Great Basin National Park is worth visiting for its stunning Lehman Caves, an underground marvel, and the opportunity to experience pristine alpine environments, including the iconic Wheeler Peak, offering a distinct and less-explored natural beauty near Las Vegas. The park’s unique combination of underground wonders and high-altitude landscapes makes it a compelling destination for diverse outdoor experiences.
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Cedar Breaks National Monument
Distance from Las Vegas: About 200 miles northeast
Route: Take I-15 N and then follow signs to the monument
Commuting Time: Approximately 3 hours
Things to do: Scenic overlooks, hiking trails, wildflower displays in summer
Campgrounds – Point Supreme Campground
Best Hotel Stay – Cedar Breaks Lodge (Brian Head, UT), Grand Lodge at Brian Head (Brian Head, UT), Best Western Town & Country Inn (Cedar City, UT), or Abbey Inn (Cedar City, UT).
Cedar Breaks National Monument is worth visiting for its breathtaking amphitheater filled with vibrant, multi-colored hoodoos resembling a miniature Bryce Canyon. It offers a unique and visually stunning geological spectacle near Las Vegas. The monument’s natural beauty and distinct rock formations make it a captivating stop for those seeking striking landscapes.
Zion National Park
Distance from Las Vegas: Approximately 160 miles northeast
Route: Take I-15 N, then follow signs to the park
Commuting Time: Around 2.5 to 3 hours
Things to do: Hiking (Angels Landing, The Narrows), scenic drives, wildlife viewing
Campgrounds – Watchman Campground, Lava Point Campground, South Campground near Virgin River.
Best Hotel Stay – SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springdale Zion National Park, Driftwood Lodge, or Desert Pearl Inn.
Zion National Park is worth visiting for its towering sandstone cliffs, majestic slot canyons like The Narrows, and scenic beauty along the Virgin River, providing an unparalleled and awe-inspiring natural playground near Las Vegas. The park’s diverse landscapes, iconic hikes, and stunning vistas make it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Bryce Canyon National Park
Distance from Las Vegas: About 260 miles northeast
Route: Take I-15 N, then follow signs to the park
Commuting Time: Approximately 4 hours
Things to do: Hiking (Navajo Loop, Queens Garden), Bryce Amphitheater viewpoints
Campgrounds – Sunset Campground, North Campground, or Sunrise Campground.
Best Hotel Stay – Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel, Ruby’s Inn, or Bryce View Lodge.
Bryce Canyon National Park is worth visiting for its enchanting hoodoos, intricate rock formations, and the otherworldly Bryce Amphitheater, offering a visually captivating and unique geological landscape near Las Vegas. The park’s stunning vistas and exceptional hiking trails make it a compelling destination for those seeking a surreal and memorable outdoor experience.
Capitol Reef National Park
Distance from Las Vegas: Approximately 340 miles northeast
Route: Take I-15 N and then follow signs to the park
Commuting Time: Around 5 to 5.5 hours
Things to do: Scenic Drive, Capitol Gorge Trail, petroglyphs at Hickman Bridge
Campgrounds – Fruita Campground, Cathedral Valley Campground, or Cedar Mesa Campground.
Best Hotel Stay – The Snuggle Inn, Red Sands Hotel, or Capitol Reef Resort.
Capitol Reef National Park is worth visiting for its mesmerizing Waterpocket Fold, ancient petroglyphs, and scenic drives along Capitol Gorge, providing a lesser-known yet magnificent natural wonder near Las Vegas. The park’s unique geological features and solitude make it a captivating destination for those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures.
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Joshua Tree National Park
Distance from Las Vegas: About 200 miles southwest
Route: Take I-15 S and then I-215 S, continue on I-15 S, and then take CA-62 W
Commuting Time: Approximately 3 to 3.5 hours
Things to do: Hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, Joshua Tree forest exploration
Campgrounds – Belle Campground, Jumbo Rocks Campground, Black Rock Campground or Indian Cove Campground.
Best Hotel Stay – Sacred Sands Hotel and Spa, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Twentynine Palms- Joshua Tree, or Harmony Motel.
For its iconic Joshua Tree forests, surreal rock formations, and unparalleled stargazing opportunities, Joshua Tree National Park is worth visiting. It offers a mesmerizing blend of unique desert landscapes and celestial wonders near Las Vegas. The park’s distinctive flora and diverse geological features make it a captivating destination for nature lovers and astronomy enthusiasts.
Mojave National Preserve
Distance from Las Vegas: Approximately 60 miles southwest
Route: Take I-15 S and then follow signs to the preserve
Commuting Time: Around 1 hour
Things to do: Kelso Dunes, Hole-in-the-Wall, Joshua trees, scenic drives
Campgrounds – Hole-in-the-Wall Campground, Mid Hills Campground, or Kelso Dunes Campground.
Best Hotel Stay – Primm Valley Resort(Primm, NV) & Casino or Wills Fargo Motel (Baker, CA).
Mojave National Preserve is worth visiting for its vast and pristine desert landscapes, including the mesmerizing Kelso Dunes and the unique Joshua Tree forests, providing a serene, off-the-beaten-path escape near Las Vegas. The preserve’s solitude, diverse ecosystems, and historical sites make it an appealing destination for those seeking tranquility and natural wonders.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area – National Parks Close To Las Vegas
Distance from Las Vegas: About 17 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip
Route: Take W Charleston Blvd/W Blue Diamond Rd
Commuting Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Things to do In Red Rock Canyon
- Take a 13 miles scenic drive throughout the park along the scenic loop.
- Explore Calico Basin and Red Springs Picnic Area
- Go for Calico Tanks Trail, the most beautiful trail here.
- Hike to Calico Hills for stunning views from the top.
- Explore Lost Creek – the stunning waterfall of the Red Rock region.
- Do not miss to spot Petroglyph Wall, which displays ancient rock art throughout the entire park and is the unique part of this park.
- Vehicle Entry fees – 15$ per car or truck and 5$ per bike
Red Rock Canyon’s opening hours – 6 A.M. to 7 P.M.
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Campgrounds – Red Rock Canyon Campground (Spring Mountain Ranch State Park) or BLM Land Dispersed Camping.
Best Hotel Stay – Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa or La Quinta Inn & Suites Las Vegas Red Rock.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is worth visiting for its stunning crimson rock formations, scenic hiking trails, and scenic loop drive. It offers a quick and accessible nature escape just outside Las Vegas. The area’s vibrant geology and outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for a day of exploration and natural beauty.
Valley Of Fire State Park – National Parks Around Las Vegas
Distance from Las Vegas: Around 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas
Route: Take I-15 N, then follow signs to the park
Commuting Time: About 1 hour
Things to do At Valley Of Fire State Park
- Arched Rock
- Beehives
- Balanced Rock
- Atlatl Rock
- Clark memorial
- Elephant Rock
- Fire Canyon – Silica Dome
- Mouse Tank
- Petrified Logs
- Rainbow Vista
- Seven Sisters
- The Cabins
- White Domes
Campgrounds – Seven Sisters Campground, Arch Rock Campground, or Atlatl Rock Campground.
Best Hotel Stay – Stay in Overton or Mesquite.
Valley of Fire State Park is worth visiting for its breathtaking red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and unique Fire Wave rock formations, providing a captivating and otherworldly desert landscape near Las Vegas. The park’s vibrant colors, hiking opportunities, and cultural significance make it a must-see destination for those seeking striking natural wonders.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area – National Parks Near Vegas
Distance from Las Vegas: Varies (Hoover Dam is a popular entry point)
Route: Take US-93 S or I-515 S to Hoover Dam
Commuting Time: Approximately 45 minutes to Hoover Dam
Things to do
- Lake Mead Cruise
- The Northshore Drive
- Hoover Dam. Click here to book ATV TOUR OF Lake Mead and Colorado river.
- Redstone Hiking Trail
- River Mountains Loop Bike Trail
- Historic Railroad Trail
Campgrounds – Boulder Beach Campground, Callville Bay Campground or Katherine Landing Campground.
Best Hotel Stay – Best Western Hoover Dam Hotel
Lake Mead National Recreation Area is worth visiting for its expansive reservoir, offering water activities like boating and fishing, complemented by the awe-inspiring Hoover Dam, which provides a diverse and recreational escape just a short drive from Las Vegas. The area’s combination of water recreation, scenic beauty, and historic landmarks makes it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Remember to check the individual park websites for the latest information on park conditions, closures, and entrance fees. Each park offers unique natural beauty and outdoor activities, making for memorable experiences near Las Vegas.
Scenic Stopovers:
- Spring Mountain Ranch State Park: This historic ranch offers guided tours and scenic views along the route to Red Rock Canyon.
- Boulder City: A charming town on the way to Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, with shops, restaurants, and the historic district.
- Mesquite: If traveling to the Grand Canyon West Rim, Mesquite offers a break with golf courses and resorts.
- Pahrump: On the route to Death Valley, Pahrump has wineries and outdoor activities.
Additional Tips:
- Check for any entrance fees or park passes required for each destination.
- Pack sunscreen, hats, and comfortable clothing for the desert conditions.
- Have a sufficient water supply, especially if you plan to engage in outdoor activities.
- Consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for stunning lighting and cooler temperatures.
- Check the seasons and weather conditions of the parks you plan to visit. Summer can be extremely hot, while winter may bring snow to higher elevations. Spring and fall are generally more temperate.
- Make accommodation reservations well in advance, especially if you plan to stay within or near the parks. Popular national parks tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
- Verify road conditions, especially if you plan to visit remote areas or during winter. Some roads may be closed due to weather or maintenance.
- Las Vegas is surrounded by several national parks, including the Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce Canyon, and more. Research each park’s features and choose the ones that align with your interests and preferences.
These destinations offer diverse landscapes, from colorful canyons to expansive deserts, providing various outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery.
Visiting national parks near Las Vegas offers a breathtaking escape into diverse landscapes, from the iconic Grand Canyon to the otherworldly beauty of Zion and Bryce Canyon, providing unparalleled outdoor adventure and exploration opportunities.
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