Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers primitive camping sites with vault toilets and water access just 20 miles from Henderson. The Boulder Highway corridor provides convenient access to multiple pet-friendly campgrounds with temperatures that routinely exceed 110°F during summer months, requiring early morning or evening walks for pets. Campers find shade limited in most locations except at military facilities.
What to do
Hiking trails at Boulder City: Trail access directly behind Canyon Trail RV Park connects to popular mountain biking routes. "We originally stayed here as a layover on our way to Havasu. When we discovered the MTB and Downhill riding nearby, we stayed a couple more nights on our way back," shares Aaron, who used the park as a base for technical rides.
Wildlife observation: Watch for wild burros at Kingman Wash on Lake Mead. "We had two that visited us (please don't feed them!) and were a delightful change of wildlife from the bears and deer we are used to back home. You could hear them 'talking' near the water later that eve," notes Amy G., who found the 3-mile access road challenging but worth the effort.
Mountain views: Red Rock Canyon Campground provides unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. "This park is goreorgus with Red Rock mountains all around you. Impossible to take a bad picture and the lake was amazing for fishing we never caught so many fish," explains Jennifer H., who found fishing particularly productive in this area.
What campers like
Security features: Many properties maintain 24-hour security personnel, with Las Vegas RV Resort providing gated access and regular patrols. "The resort is gated with a person at the gate 24/7. The restrooms were very clean and the swimming pool was not crowded at all," reports Andrew W., who appreciated the safety measures.
Affordable casino access: Arizona Charlie's Boulder RV Park combines lower cost camping with casino amenities. "Nice friendly people, Good Sam Discount, AAA Discount, AARP Discount, Military And First Responder Discount. Clean, security 24 hours, Laundry Room, Bath House, pool area, TV Room," writes Michael G., who has stayed multiple times.
Hot springs access: Some campsites provide proximity to natural hot springs. "Located right off the main drag in Boulder City minutes from the Hoover dam, great hiking, natural hot springs, Vegas is just 30+ minutes away, Nelson Ghost Town," explains Doug M., who found Canyon Trail RV Park ideally situated for exploring thermal features.
What you should know
Limited level spaces: Near-water camping areas often feature uneven terrain. "You'd think that being nestled in the Red Rock canyon area the views from here would be amazing. Maybe they are in one or two spots, but nothing of the sort in the RV area," notes Twindaddy, who found the RV spaces at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area Campground to be "a gravel parking lot with picnic tables and a few fire pits."
Age restrictions: Some properties maintain adults-only policies. "Not family friendly at all!! You must be 18 or older to come here so it's cool for people without kids or families," explains Brittney C., who found Las Vegas RV Resort suitable for those without children but lacking for families.
Noise factors: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby commercial activities. "It was quite and calm. Not many people around but it's in the middle of boulder hwy with a Walmart across the street. 10 minutes away from the strip," reports Overland Pioneer, describing Las Vegas KOA Journey at Sam's Town.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds feature extensive on-site recreation. "This RV park has everything! The spaces are large and mostly pull-through. There is lots of shade, which is very important in Las Vegas. There are two nice swimming pools with hot tubs, a bowling alley, a casino," shares Elaine G. about Las Vegas KOA Journey at Sam's Town.
Consider dispersed options: For more natural experiences, Kingman Wash allows primitive camping. "This campground is amazing! There are bathrooms, but I did not use them. Donkeys roam around and the bugs are pretty extra. The water is great and is perfect for my paddleboard!" states Peaches E., who enjoyed the lakeside access despite the challenging access road.
Weather preparation: Pack for extreme heat when visiting during summer months. "Weather wise be prepared for the heat. It was 101°F when we arrived, 80° at night. Bring lots of water to drink!" warns Peaches E., who camped at Kingman Wash and found shade limited.
Tips from RVers
Military options: Active or retired service members have exclusive access to Desert Eagle RV Park on Nellis Air Force Base. "Sites are large and perfectly level. Grounds are spotless. Laundry and showers are perfectly maintained. Park is convenient to downtown Vegas and only a few miles from Hoover Dam," reports Mike H., who found the facility exceptionally clean.
Site selection strategy: When choosing a space at Oasis Las Vegas RV Resort, look for specific amenities. "Easy drive/stroll this campground, large sites with full hookups and concrete pads for easy level setup. Fun times at the separate swimming pool area for adults and kids which is open late for some night swimming," suggests Matt I., who appreciated the dedicated adult swimming areas.
Electrical options: Verify power requirements when booking. "They do upcharge a few bucks if you are using 50amp. They do have full hookups and cabins on site," notes T K., who stayed at Thousand Trails Las Vegas and found most parks charge extra for higher amperage service.