Valley of Fire Information

DIRECTIONS:

Valley of Fire State Park is located 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas via Interstate 15, exit 75 or 93. If exiting on 93, proceed 22 miles through the towns of Logandale & Overton to reach the Valley of Fire highway. Entry fee required.

VISITOR INFORMATION:

The visitor center is open 8:30 - 4:30 daily, and features exhibits on the history, geology, and ecology of the park. Souvenirs (postcards, books, etc.) for sale.

Hiking and camping are very popular activities at the Valley of Fire. Camping is on a first come, first serve basis and requires additional fees. Campsites include grills, tables, water, restrooms, and showers. An additional $10 is required for RV sites including power and water hookups. For more information, please call (702) 397-2088.

HISTORY:

The Valley of Fire is the oldest state park in Nevada. The name is derived from the red sandstone formations seen in the pictures below. The formations were created by great shifting sand dunes nearly 150 million years ago. Faulting of the region and extensive erosion have created the current landscape. Limestone, shale, and conglomerate rocks compose other important formations. The Anasazi Pueblo farmers are said to have visited the Valley of Fire between 300 B.C. to 1150 A.D. for hunting and ceremonial gatherings. Petroglyphs created by the Anasazi can be viewed at many sites within the park.

BIOLOGY:

Plant species including burro bush, brittle bush, creosote bush, and several cactus dominate the majority of the park. Bird species are limited to the roadrunner, raven, house finch, and sage sparrow, though many migrant birds can be seen passing through. Unfortunately, most of the desert animals are nocturnal and therefore not seen very often. However, many species of lizards and snakes, along with rabbits, foxes, skunks, and coyotes are common.

PICTURES:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/slideshow/53114/valley_of_fire_state_park_pictures.html?cat=37