8 Natural Desert Attractions Around Las Vegas
The Las Vegas strip has so many activities to keep you busy most visitors never leave the four-mile stretch. If you’re tired of the flashing lights and crowds or just want a change of pace there are fun things to do off the Vegas strip.
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Natural Attractions in Las Vegas
The Las Vegas scene can be a sensory overload, if you are looking for some down time there are some great off the beaten path natural attractions near Vegas.
Some of our favorite natural desert attractions near Las Vegas in order of closest attraction.
- Springs Preserves
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
- Sloan Canyon National Conservation
- Clark County Wetlands
- Lake Mead
- Hoover Dam
- Valley of Fire State Park
- Grand Canyon
1. Springs Preserve Natural Attraction
If you’re seeking out a little bit of nature in lieu of the congestion of the city, Springs Preserve is a nice little reprieve. This 180-acre cultural institution is on the National Historic Registry.
It is an immersive experience with several museums, a botanical garden, butterfly exhibit and nature trails.
2. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Even though it seems like a world away, the Red Rock Canyon is a 20-minute drive from Las Vegas. This is a great spot to hike in Nevada or take the 13-mile scenic drive.
If you’re visiting October through May you will need a timed entry ticket. These tickets can be purchases at Recreation.gov.
3. Sloan Canyon Natural Conservation
Want to see petroglyphs? Sloan Canyon Natural Conservation area is the best spot in the Las Vegas area to see ancient petroglyphs.
4. Clark County Wetlands Park
Visit this 210-acre nature preserve to hike one of the many trails. Clark County Wetlands Park protects the natural habitat. It is a short 20 minute drive from Las Vegas.
5. Lake Mead Natural Attraction in Las Vegas
Nothing attracts people like water in the desert. Lake Mead is a popular area to swim, boat, and fish.
The drive along Lake Shore Road has some great scenic views. This is a nice drive on a motorcycle as well.
6. Hoover Dam
The Dam is a 40-minute drive from Las Vegas. Hoover Dam is built on the state lines of both Arizona and Nevada lands.
7. Valley of Fire State Park
This is an amazing road trip. We drove through the Valley of Fire State Park on a motorcycle and it is a scenic drive. You can also hike many different trails.
8. Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is a day trip from Las Vegas. The drive is about four hours. If you don’t have a vehicle or don’t want to drive yourself there are many tour buses you can take to the Grand Canyon.
