Where is Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area,Las Vegas, Nevada?

Written by | Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:28 PM ET

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is located in Nevada, USA. It lies between Las Vegas and Spring Mountain Ranch and is situated in the Mojave Desert. It is famous for its red sandstone cliffs, rock climbing, hiking, and scenic desert landscapes.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area Location Map,Las Vegas, Nevada

Top Attractions Inside Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

  • Scenic Drive – 13-mile loop offering breathtaking views of red rock formations, canyons, and desert landscapes.
  • Calico Hills – Iconic sandstone cliffs popular for photography, hiking, and rock climbing.
  • Petroglyph Wall – Ancient Native American rock art accessible via short trails.
  • Hiking Trails – Trails like Ice Box Canyon and Pine Creek Canyon offering diverse desert experiences.
  • Rock Climbing – Numerous climbing routes for beginners and advanced climbers on unique sandstone formations.
  • Visitor Center & Exhibits – Educational displays on geology, wildlife, and cultural history.
  • Wildlife Viewing – Spot bighorn sheep, desert tortoises, lizards, and native birds throughout the area.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area Facts

Official NameRed Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
LocationLas Vegas, Clark County, Nevada, USA — Mojave Desert / Spring Mountains region
Latitude & Longitude36.1350° N, 115.4272° W
Total AreaApprox. 197,000 acres (≈797 km²)
Established / Opened1983 (designated as National Conservation Area)
Managed ByBureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Department of the Interior
RegionSouthern Nevada / Mojave Desert / Spring Mountains
Address1000 Scenic Loop Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89161, USA
Zip Code89161
Area Code702
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZonePacific Time (PT) – UTC−8 Standard / UTC−7 Daylight Saving
Theme / ConceptDesert wilderness, red sandstone cliffs, hiking, rock climbing, scenic drives, wildlife observation, geology, outdoor recreation
Main Sections / AreasScenic Loop Drive, Calico Hills, Keystone Thrust, Sandstone Quarry, Turtlehead Peak, Hiking Trails, Climbing Areas
Famous AttractionsRed sandstone cliffs, Calico Hills, Keystone Thrust Fault, hiking trails, rock climbing routes, scenic overlooks, wildlife viewing (bighorn sheep, desert tortoises)
Annual VisitorsApprox. 2 million visitors
Entry Fee TypePaid Admission – Vehicle day-use fee
Ticket Price RangeVehicle day-use: ~$15 per car; motorcycle day-use: ~$10; annual pass available
Ticket OptionsVehicle day-use pass, annual pass, guided hikes and tours, rock climbing permits, educational programs
Best Time to VisitFall through spring (October–May) for milder desert temperatures; early mornings and late afternoons for photography
Nearby AirportMcCarran International Airport (LAS) – ~17 miles (27 km)
TransportationCar via Scenic Loop Drive and NV State Routes, hiking trails, rock climbing areas, guided tour access, shuttle/parking areas
Official Websitehttps://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/nevada/red-rock-canyon

Distances from Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area to Nearby Landmarks

  • Las Vegas Strip – 24 km (14.9 mi)
  • Las Vegas, NV Downtown – 30 km (18.6 mi)
  • Spring Mountains National Recreation Area – 15 km (9.3 mi)
  • Bonanza Trailhead – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Calico Hills – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center – 0 km (0 mi)
  • La Madre Mountain – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Willow Springs – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Mount Charleston – 35 km (21.7 mi)
  • Henderson, NV – 35 km (21.7 mi)
  • Clark County Shooting Complex – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Keystone Thrust – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Lost Creek – 8 km (5 mi)
  • White Rock – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Petroglyph Canyon – 15 km (9.3 mi)
  • Ice Box Canyon – 8 km (5 mi)
  • First Creek – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Sandstone Quarry – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Red Spring – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Bridge Mountain – 12 km (7.5 mi)