The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
RV camping on public lands is allowed under the rules set forth by the Bureau of Land Management, which is responsible for managing public lands for current and future use. You can stay at developed Bureau of Land Management campgrounds which usually offer some amenities. Or, you can set up camp in dispersed camping areas, which are free of charge. Unless specific rules exist for a particular area in Nevada, you can stay in one spot for 14 days. Most of the public lands in Nevada are open to camping, except in locations designated as no camping areas to protect wildlife or designated as day-use locations. The Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive is 20 minutes from Los Vegas in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It is 13 miles long and takes you through colorful canyons, by sandstone hills, and offers access to 12 trailheads. Timed entry reservations are mandatory to drive the route from October 1 to May 31. Besides all the outdoor activities available in the conservation area, the scenic drive is near Lake Mead, which offers boating, fishing, and swimming options. If you are planning to stop at Death Valley National Park on your RV trip, it is 100 miles to the west in California.
The first mile of this trail is relatively flat, and then it gets steeper as you approach the summit. You will see fascinating red, orange, and yellow sandstone rock formations along the way. From the top, you will have a bird's eye view of Las Vegas, over 20 miles away. Length: 3.7 miles Intensity: Moderate
This is a good trail if you are looking for a workout because it climbs about 2,000 feet over uneven ground. Some parts involve rock scrambling, so wear sturdy boots. At the summit, you will be treated to views of the La Madre mountains in the distance and the canyonlands below. Length: 4.6 miles Intensity: Difficult
This easy trail is well-known as a spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography. Part of it follows Pine Creek, and you will pass by the ruins of an old homestead. Length: 2.4 miles Intensity: Easy
Lake Mead is a little more than 45 miles to the east, and you can fish and boat in the water. Anglers who are 16 or older will need a fishing license. The state stocks the lake, and you can fish for bass, catfish, rainbow trout, and other species. Even if you don't have your own boat, you can rent everything from a canoe to a powerboat at the Lake Mead Marina.
Red Spring Picnic Area features spectacular views of the multicolor cliffs of Calico Basin. There are grills at this location, so you can cook up some food and eat under shade shelters. Vault toilets are available, but there is no running water.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area has plenty of wildlife. White-crowned sparrows and red racers are highlights of the area's bird species, and mule deer, grey foxes, and burros are some of the larger mammals you may see. While hiking, look out for lizards and frogs near streams and bodies of water.
BLM RV camping is available at Red Rock Canyon Campground, which is open from September through June. The site has picnic tables, grills, fire rings, potable water, and vault toilets. If you are looking for more services, there are many privately owned campgrounds with full hook-ups nearby in the Las Vegas area.
Some of the best Bureau of Land Management free camping in the area is at Sandy Valley Road Boondocking, which has a dozen primitive campsites. During your RV trip, search "BLM camping near me" on your device to find other free camping spots.
The area is a desert, so you need to have enough water if you plan to hike or bike the area's trails. To stay hydrated, it is recommended you drink eight ounces of water every twenty minutes while active in this arid environment. Having a hat with a large brim, sunglasses with dark or tinted lenses, strong sunblock, and loose, light clothing while out in the desert is also a good idea. Remember that the desert cools off drastically as the sun sets. If you want to be comfortable hanging out around camp or while stargazing, you should bring layers to stay comfortable. Although you won't meet large predators, such as cougars or bears, there are bobcats, foxes, and coyotes living in and around the Red Rock Canyon area. Above all, do not feed them as it can make them dependent on human beings. A good rule is never to approach closer than 75 feet.
BLM sites in this part of Nevada allow you a budget-friendly way to explore the Red Rock Cayon area and be far away from busy commercial campgrounds. On the other hand, it can be challenging to plan a stay in a site with few or no amenities. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
When camping in Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, you are expected to follow Leave No Trace guidelines to reduce your impact on public lands. When exploring, you should use marked trails to prevent soil erosion and reduce your disturbance to plants. When setting up camp, use preexisting sites and fire rings if available. Finally, when you are ready to leave a site, take the time to clean up and dispose of all trash appropriately.
From Las Vegas, take Route 159 for 17 miles west to 1000 Scenic Loop Drive. You will see Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center on the left at the beginning of the scenic drive. Latitude / Longitude: 36.131731, -115.421507 Ready to visit the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
