The best camping near Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Located less than 20 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip, the conservation area spans nearly 200,000 acres in the Mojave Desert. Known for its namesake red-banded sandstone cliffs, the area is home to a surprising amount of wildlife and a premier outdoor recreation area for hiking, rock climbing, road and mountain biking, and horseback riding. Don't miss the 13-mile, one-way Scenic Drive, showcasing many area highlights, or the visitor center exhibits. One seasonal campground offers more than 70 individual campsites, walk-in campsites, RV campsites, and group campsites. Backcountry camping is also permitted above 5,000 feet.

• Best for tent campers: Fifty-three individual standard sites offer space for ten people, and include picnic tables, grills, and campfire circles.
• Best for RVs: There are six RV sites, but no hookups or dump stations.
• Best for groups: Seven group camping areas offer space for up to 20 people.

1. Plan ahead for peak season and make a reservation as soon as you can. Reservations can be made at least 48 hours and up to six months in advance for regular campsites, and up to three days in advance for walk-in tent sites.
2. If your plans are flexible, time your stay for during the week or during non-holiday periods. 
3. If you don't have reservations, arrive first thing to grab any unreserved sites.

The area is open year-round though the campground is usually only open from Labor Day to Memorial Day. Summer temperatures can exceed 110°F while winter can see freezing temperatures and snow, making spring and fall the best times to visit. March, April, and November are the peak climbing and camping seasons. Timed entry reservations are required for the Scenic Drive between October and May. Fire restrictions are in place during fire season, typically May to October.

• Timed entry reservations for the Scenic Drive are released one month and two days in advance. The Scenic Drive closes between 5 and 8pm, depending on the season. Climbers and backpackers can apply for late exit passes, which grant up to two extra hours.
• Climbers should wait at least 24 hours after rainstorms before climbing on sandstone. Bivy permits are required if you need to stay overnight on climbing walls or summits.
• Beware of flash floods after rainstorms. Visitors should also be on the lookout for rattlesnakes, black widows, and other poisonous creatures.
• Water is provided at the campground but limited to one gallon per person per day. Firewood is not available.
• When fire restrictions are in place, only gas and propane stoves are permitted.
• Cell phone coverage can be spotty around the campground.