Valley of Fire State Park Camping
About This Campground
Blazing red Aztec sandstone formations surround two developed campgrounds. Ancient petroglyphs.
Amenities & Facilities
Location
Van Life Tips
State parks often offer electrical hookups — great for van lifers who want to charge batteries and run AC.
State park camping fees typically include access to all park trails and facilities.
Potable water is available — bring containers to fill up for your van.
At 4.6 stars with 1876 reviews, this site is highly recommended by the van life community.
Van Life Guide to Valley of Fire State Park Camping
Overview
Valley of Fire looks like Mars, if Mars had campgrounds and a visitor center. The Aztec sandstone formations — blazing red, orange, and white — are 150 million years old, and camping among them feels genuinely otherworldly. Two campgrounds (Arch Rock and Atlatl Rock) are first-come, first-served at $20/night, which is remarkably cheap for a Nevada state park. The petroglyphs scattered around the park are thousands of years old and still clearly visible. This is a day-trip destination from Las Vegas (70 miles northeast), but staying overnight transforms the experience — the crowds leave at 4 PM and you have the red rocks to yourself under some of the darkest skies in the Southwest.
Facilities & Services
Vault toilets at both campgrounds
Potable water at spigots (bring extra containers — the desert is dehydrating)
Picnic tables and grills at campsites
No hookups, no showers, no WiFi
Visitor center with exhibits, a small gift shop, and water refills
Gas and limited groceries at the Valley of Fire gas station, just outside the east entrance
Full resupply in Overton (20 min west) or Las Vegas (70 min southwest)
Van Life Essentials
All carriers work here — you're close enough to the Las Vegas metro area
Solar charging is maximized here — almost zero cloud cover and full sun all day. Your panels will perform at peak
Summer temperatures exceed 115°F. Your van's interior will reach 140°F+. Ventilation is critical — a MaxxAir fan running on solar is essential
Water consumption doubles in the desert. Plan 2 gallons per person per day minimum
The park has a $10 per vehicle entrance fee (Nevada residents free with pass)
Best Time to Visit
Spring (Mar–May)
Ideal. Wildflowers bloom after winter rain. Temperatures in the 70s–80s. Wild horses are sometimes visible near the east entrance.
Summer (Jun–Aug)
Extreme heat. Only recommended if your van has robust solar-powered ventilation. Camp at Arch Rock (more shade).
Fall (Sep–Nov)
Another excellent window. The rock cools enough to hike comfortably. Stargazing is world-class.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Cold nights (below freezing) but pleasant days. Almost no crowds. The light on the red rocks in winter is spectacular.
Nearby Recommendations
Lake Mead
45 min drive
Boating, swimming, and more camping options. The Hoover Dam is at the south end.
Zion National Park
2 hours northeast
Worth combining into a Southwest loop. The drive through the Virgin River Gorge is scenic.
Las Vegas
70 miles southwest
For everything: Costco, REI, van mechanics, restaurants. Plan a resupply stop here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Valley of Fire State Park Camping free to camp at?
Valley of Fire State Park Camping costs $20/night. Check recreation.gov for current rates and reservation availability.
What amenities are available?
Available amenities include: flush toilets, water, picnic tables, grills.
Is Valley of Fire State Park Camping good for van life?
Valley of Fire State Park Camping is a great option for van life camping. Located in Overton, Nevada, this state park campground offers camping at $20/nightfor van dwellers exploring the area.
Nevada Van Life Guide
Complete guide to van life in Nevada — costs, best camping, laws, and tips.
View Nevada Guide