The Ultimate Guide To Camping In
Valley of Fire

Exploring Valley of Fire in a Campervan

Nestled in the Mojave Desert just an hour from Las Vegas, the Valley of Fire State Park is a breathtaking destination for travelers. With its red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and unique hiking trails, the park is a must-visit for nature lovers. We’ve created this guide to cover five unmissable spots in the park, the best local eateries, and top camping locations to make your campervan trip unforgettable.

The Best Campgrounds: Valley of Fire

1. Atlatl Rock Campground (Inside the Park)

  • Why Stay: Convenient access to top attractions like Atlatl Rock and Arch Rock. The campground has shaded picnic tables, fire rings, and clean restrooms with showers.

  • Tips: Arrive early; sites are first-come, first-served. Rates are $20/night for basic sites and $30/night for those with hookups.

2. Arch Rock Campground (Inside the Park)

  • Why Stay: A more secluded option with fewer spots, offering tranquility among stunning red rock formations.

  • Tips: No hookups available, so it’s better for self-sufficient campervans. Rates are $20/night.

3. Lake Mead RV Village (Near the Park)

  • Why Stay: Located on the shores of Lake Mead, this RV park offers full hookups, Wi-Fi, and a serene environment with lake views.

  • Tips: Great for those looking to combine their Valley of Fire trip with water activities at Lake Mead. Rates start at $35/night.

Valley of Fire Elephant Rock

5 Must-Visit Spots in the Valley of Fire

1. Fire Wave Trail

  • Why Go: This iconic trail leads to swirling, wave-like sandstone formations with hues of red, pink, and white. It's a photographer’s dream.

  • Tips: Best visited early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and stunning light.

2. Atlatl Rock

  • Why Go: See ancient petroglyphs etched by Native Americans thousands of years ago. A short staircase leads to the viewing area.

  • Tips: Bring a camera and a notebook to jot down the stories these carvings seem to tell.

3. Elephant Rock

  • Why Go: A short hike reveals this natural rock formation shaped like an elephant, making it a favorite for families and photo ops.

  • Tips: Visit at sunrise for incredible lighting and fewer crowds.

4. White Domes Trail

  • Why Go: This 1.1-mile loop combines colorful sandstone formations, a slot canyon, and remnants of an old movie set.

  • Tips: Wear sturdy shoes; the sandy trail can be slippery in spots.

5. Mouse’s Tank

  • Why Go: This easy trail features more petroglyphs and ends at a natural water basin named after an infamous outlaw.

  • Tips: Check out the interpretive signs to learn about the area's fascinating history.

3 Best Places to Eat Near the Valley of Fire

1. Sugar’s Home Plate

  • Location: Overton, NV (25 minutes from the park).

  • Why Go: This cozy diner serves hearty breakfasts and classic American comfort food. Don’t miss their burgers and milkshakes.

  • Must-Try: The homemade apple pie—it’s defintely worth the calories.

2. Inside Scoop

  • Location: Overton, NV.

  • Why Go: Perfect for a sweet treat after a day of hiking. They offer delicious homemade ice cream with unique flavors.

  • Must-Try: The prickly pear ice cream for something new, and a taste of the Southwest.

3. La Fonda Mexican Restaurant

  • Location: Logandale, NV (30 minutes from the park).

  • Why Go: Craving Mexican food? This spot serves authentic tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.

  • Must-Try: The carne asada plate and their freshly made guacamole.

Tips for Visiting the Valley of Fire in a Campervan

  • Pack Plenty of Water: The desert heat and lack of humidity can be intense, even in cooler months.

  • Plan for Cell Service: Reception in the park is limited, so download maps and guides ahead of time.

  • Visit in Winter, Spring or Fall: Temperatures are more comfortable, and the park is less crowded.

  • Bring Layers: Desert nights can be surprisingly chilly, with winters getting down into the 30’s and 40’s!

  • Respect the Environment: Stay on designated trails and leave no trace to preserve this stunning landscape.

To Sum Up

A campervan trip to,, or through, the Valley of Fire State Park is an adventure you won’t soon forget. From the fiery landscapes to ancient petroglyphs and nearby culinary delights, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re camping under the stars at Atlatl Rock or taking in the awe inspiring sites at Fire Wave Rock, this destination offers the perfect blend of nature, history, and relaxation.

So rent a campervan, hit the road, and let the Valley of Fire light up your travel memories!