 | | Valley of Fire State Park is Nevada's oldest and largest state park, dedicated 1935. The valley derives its name from the red sandstone formations and the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert. Ancient trees and early man are represented throughout the park by areas of petrified wood and 3,000 year-old Indian petroglyphs. Popular activities include camping, hiking, picnicking and photography.The Valley of Fire derives its name from red sandstone formations, formed from great shifting sand dunes during the age of dinosaurs, 150 million years ago. Complex uplifting and faulting of the region, followed by extensive erosion, have created the present landscape. Other important rock formations include limestones, shales, and conglomerates. Prehistoric users of the Valley of Fire included the Basket Maker people and later the Anasazi Pueblo farmers from the nearby fertile Moapa Valley. The span of approximate occupation has been dated from 300 B.C. to 1150 A.D. Their visits probably involved hunting, food gathering, and religious ceremonies, although scarcity of water would have limited the length of their stay. Fine examples of rock art left by these ancient peoples can be found at several sites within the park.The area plant community is dominated by widely spaced creosote bush, burro bush, and brittle bush. Several cactus species, including beaver tail and cholla, are also common. The springtime bloom of such plants as the desert marigold, indigo bush, and desert mallow are often spectacular along park roads.Resident birds include the raven, house finch, sage sparrow, and roadrunner. Many migrant birds also pass through the park. Most desert animals are nocturnal and not frequently seen by the passing motorist. Many species of lizards and snakes are common in the park, as well as the coyote, kit fox, spotted skunk, black tailed jack rabbit, and antelope ground squirrel. The desert tortoise is a rare species and is protected by state law. If you are lucky enough to come across one please leave this likable and harmless creature to live its life in peace in its own environment. |
| |  | | | Facilities: Valley of Fire State Park provides campsites, picnic areas, and several group use areas.Camping All campsites are first come, first serve. Two campgrounds with 51 units are available. Campsites are equipped with shaded tables, grills, water, and restrooms. A dump station and showers are available.Picnicking Shaded areas with restrooms are located at Atlatl Rock, Seven Sisters, the Cabins, near Mouse's Tank trail head and White Domes.Group Area There are three group areas, each accommodating up to 45 persons. They are available for overnight camping and picnicking by reservation only. Advance reservations are required. For information call Valley of Fire State Park. Reservations: Reservations are not needed or accepted for Valley of Fire State Park. Best Time To Visit: Valley of Fire State Park is open year round. The visitor center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fees: An entrance fee is charged. An additional fee is charged for camping. Accessibility: Unknown Rules: Drive your vehicle only on approved routes of travel, and park only in designated places along the roadside shoulders. Motor vehicles are not allowed on trails. Camp only in designated campground sites.Fires permitted only in designated grills and fireplaces.All plants, animals, rock, and mineral materials are protected by state law. Please do not remove or disturb them.Pets are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than. They are not allowed in the visitor center.All artifacts and other signs of Indian civilization are protected by state and federal law.Please conserve the water provided for your convenience.Please be careful with your litter. Use the trash containers provided.Check at Visitor Center for information regarding professional photography use of Nevada State Parks.Directions: To reach Valley of Fire State Park from Mesquite, take I-15 south for 28.5 miles to exit 93. Follow exit 93 to Hwy 169. Take 169 south to the park. | | |
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| | | | Address | | Valley of Fire State Park | | P.O. Box 515 | | Overton, Nevada 89040 |
| | | Phone | | General: (702) 397-2088 | |
| | | | | Website | | Email |
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