Your adventure begins!
The Top 5 Things to Do at Red Rock Canyon
Just 17 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area trades neon lights for towering sandstone cliffs, slot canyons, and some of the best hiking and climbing in the Southwest. It’s the perfect first stop on any Vegas camper van trip — easy to reach, packed with variety, and gorgeous from sunrise to sunset.
Here are our five favorite ways to experience it.
1. Hike Calico Basin
A short, family-friendly walk that drops you straight into the iconic red and white striped sandstone. Boardwalks make the first section accessible, and the slickrock just beyond is a playground for scrambling and photos. Sunrise here is unforgettable.
2. Summit Turtlehead Peak
The signature challenge of Red Rock — a steep, rocky 5-mile out-and-back that gains roughly 2,000 feet and rewards you with a panoramic view across the whole conservation area. Start early, bring more water than you think you need, and wear real hiking shoes.
3. Wander Icebox Canyon
A cool, shaded canyon hike that feels twenty degrees cooler than the surrounding desert. The trail winds between towering walls to a seasonal waterfall, making it a perfect option on hotter days.
4. Climb the Sandstone
Red Rock is a world-class climbing destination with thousands of routes from beginner sport climbs to multi-pitch trad lines. Bring your own gear or book a half-day with a local guide service — even non-climbers love watching the action at the Calico Hills pull-offs.
5. Stop at the Visitor Center
Don’t skip it. The Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center has fascinating geology exhibits, a desert tortoise habitat, and ranger-led talks that turn the whole drive into something deeper than a photo op. It’s also the best place to pick up trail maps and current conditions.
Before You Go
The Scenic Loop Drive now requires a timed-entry reservation between October and May. Book ahead at recreation.gov — it sells out, especially on weekends.
Take Your Adventure Further
Red Rock is just the beginning. Rent one of our fully-equipped Vegas Campers vans, point the wheels west, and turn a day trip into a road trip. All camping gear is included and the vans get great gas mileage so you can keep exploring.
Related Trips
Keep exploring with these nearby itineraries: