Red Rock conservation

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
This page contains answers to common questions handled by Bureau of Land Management Rangers, Volunteers at the Visitor Center Information Desk, and the RRCIA support staff, along with some tips and tricks that we have found useful and presented here as questions.

	Red Rock Canyon is located about 17 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip. From Las Vegas the Conservation Area can be approached from Charleston Boulevard [north of Sahara Avenue], which will turn into State Route 159; or from State Route 160 [south of Tropicana] to the Junction with Route 159. Just follow Route 159 until you see the entrance. From the southwest, RRCNCA is reached by taking Route 160 East to Route 159; From the north or south: both Route 95 and I-15 will lead you to Las Vegas and then follow the directions stated above.
How do I get to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area?

	Red Rock Canyon features a one-way 13-mile scenic drive, a Visitor Center which offers information and interpretation about recreation opportunities, wildlife, vegetation, geology, cultural resources and much more. The facility also offers a book and gift store operated by the Red Rock Canyon Interpretive Association, a non-profit organization with the mission of researching and sharing interpretive information about RRCNCA and assisting the BLM with endeavors related to interpretation. If you click on the link to your left you will see the list of scheduled hikes and interpretive programs.
What does Red Rock have to offer a visitor?

	The Book and Gift Store is located in the Visitor Center [VC] which you will be able to see from the entrance to the Conservation Area where the Fee Booth is located. It is possible to visit the VC area without continuing on the scenic drive.
Where can I find the Visitor Center and Book and Gift Store?

Shopping	We have great logo items and books that pertain to this area which may be difficult to find elsewhere. We also sell clothing, art, plants, hiking gear, food, and seasonal items.

	BLM [Bureau of Land Management] Mission Statement It is the mission of the Bureau of Land Management to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
Nevada BLM Home

What is a Conservation Area?	A Conservation Area is an area of federal public land set aside "In order to conserve, protect and enhance [the area] for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations ....." In 1990, special legislation supported by the Nevada congressional delegation, declared the Red Rock Canyon area of southern Nevada to be a National Conservation Area [NCA], the seventh to be designated nationally. As stated in its enabling legislation: In order to conserve, protect and enhance for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations the area in southern Nevada containing and surrounding the Red Rock Canyon and the unique and nationally important geologic, archeological, ecological, cultural, scenic, scientific, wildlife, riparian, wilderness, endangered species and recreation resources of the public lands therein contained, there is established the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area."


	Pets While pets are allowed in the Conservation Area, their activities are quite restricted. They must be kept on a leash at all times, they must never be left unattended - not even in a vehicle. Do keep in mind that the temperature inside a vehicle can rise to unsafe levels.
Are Pets allowed?
	Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers seasonal camping at the Red Rock Canyon Campground [formerly 13-Mile Campground] from September through May (closed June, July and August). The campground is located approximately 2 miles east of the Visitor Center on State Route 159. Barbecue grills, picnic tables, trash collection, water tank and pit toilets are available. Accommodations are first come/first served; campground host on site. Firewood is for sale by the campground hosts and is available between September 1 and May 31.
Is there camping in the area

	Bicycles are allowed on the one-way Scenic Drive, paved spur roads and designated mountain bike trails. Bikes are not allowed on designated hiking trails. Motor vehicle regulations for bicycles apply while in the Conservation Area. The Cottonwood Valley Area has a system of trails designated for mountain bike and equestrian use. Motorized vehicles are limited to designated roads.
How about biking?

Where can I drive an off-highway vehicle at Red Rock Canyon?	Off-highway driving in the National Conservation Area is limited to designated roads. Drivers traveling off designated roads are subject to fines. Roads open for off-highway recreation are multi-use: please be aware of other recreational user groups. Follow "Tread Lightly" motorized vehicle guidelines. Opportunities for off-highway vehicle touring are as follows: Rocky Gap Road An extremely rough, four-wheel drive road open to use by licensed and street legal vehicles. Expect narrow road conditions with numerous washouts. Not recommended for passenger cars or other low clearance vehicles. Preparation and caution are recommended. This route not patrolled or maintained. Cottonwood Valley An undeveloped area that features several unpaved routes. Be prepared for washouts and sandy areas. Watch for mountain bikers and equestrians.



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