Valley of Fire is Nevada's oldest and largest state park. The Valley of Fire derives its name from red sandstone formations, formed from great shifting sand dunes about 150 million years ago. Complex uplifting and faulting of the region, followed by extensive erosion, have created the present landscape.
Prehistoric users of the Valley of Fire included the Basketmaker peoples, and later the Anasazi pueblo farmers from the nearby Moapa Valley. Fine examples of their rock art can be found at several sites within the Park.
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| Area: |
The Park is roughly six by four miles in area. |
| Visitor Center: |
The Visitor Center provides exhibits on the geology, ecology, prehistory, and history of the Park and the nearby region. The Visitor Center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. |
| Facilities: |
Shaded areas with restrooms are located at Atlatl Rock, Seven Sisters, the Cabins, near Mouse's Tank trailhead, and White Domes. |
| Directions: |
The East Entrance to Valley of Fire State Park is located five miles from NV 169, 13 miles southwest of Overton. The West Entrance is located 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas via Interstate 15 and off of Exit 75.
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| Coordinates: |
Map Coordinates (NAD83): 36 25.590N; 114 30.824W. |
| Weather: |
- Winters are mild, with temperatures ranging from freezing to 75 degrees.
- Daily summer highs usually exceed 100 degrees, and may reach 120 degrees.
- Summer temperatures can vary widely from day to night.
- Average annual rainfall is four inches, coming in the form of light winter showers and summer thunderstorms.
- Spring and autumn are the preferred seasons for visiting the Valley of Fire.
- See Canyon Country Weather for more information.
- Sunrise/Sunset
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| Regulations: |
The desert is extremely fragile. Thoughtless motorists and others who have abused the area in the past have left scars. It will take centuries for Nature to restore this desert area to its original condition. To protect the desert and ensure the safety of others, follow these rules:
- Drive your vehicle only on approved routes. Park only in designated places along the roadside shoulders. Motor vehicles are not allowed on trails.
- All plants, animals, rock, and mineral materials are protected by State law. Do not remove or disturb.
- Pets are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash of not more than six feet in length. They are not allowed in the Visitor Center.
- All artifacts and other signs of Indian civilization are protected by State and federal law.
- Conserve the water provided for your convenience.
- Be careful of your litter. Use the trash containers provided.
- Check at the Visitor Center for information regarding professional photography use of Nevada State Parks.
- See Archaeological Site Etiquette.
- See American Antiquities Act of 1906.
- See Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979.
- Archaeological Resources Protection Act Hotline: 800-227-7286.
- See Pets in the Parks and Backcountry.
- See Encountering Wild Animals.
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