Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Only six miles separate Valley of Fire State Park from Lake Mead, and it is 55 miles from Las Vegas to the northeast via Interstate 15 and exit 75. Valley of Fire State Park, established in 1935, is Nevada's oldest and biggest state park. The Mojave Desert's harsh beauty and red sandstone formations are whence the valley gets its name. Petrified wood and 3,000-year-old Indian petroglyphs are found in various places around the park, representing ancient trees and early humans. Camping, hiking, picnics, and photography are all popular pastimes. A comprehensive visitor center with several explanatory displays is available in the park. There are also a number of places for group usage. All year long, the park is open.

The red sandstone rocks of the Valley of Fire, which date back 150 million years to the time of the dinosaurs, are what give the region its name. The current terrain was formed by significant erosion, complex rising, and faulting of the area. The limestones, shales, and conglomerates are further significant rock formations. The Basket Maker peoples and subsequently the Anasazi Pueblo farmers from the surrounding fertile Moapa Valley were among the prehistoric inhabitants of the Valley of Fire.

Exhibits about the geology, ecology, prehistory, and history of the park and the surrounding area are available in the visitor center. Every tourist is highly encouraged to make this their first stop after entering the park. For your convenience, postcards, literature, and souvenirs are for sale. Daily hours for the visitor center are 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. At dusk, the park's other areas close.

Location: Overton, NV