Atlatl Rock Campground – Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Atlatl Rock Campground is one of the premier camping destinations in Valley of Fire State Park, offering visitors a front-row seat to the red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and sweeping Mojave Desert scenery that make the park so iconic. With spacious sites, modern amenities, and direct access to famous landmarks like Atlatl Rock and Arch Rock, this campground is a favorite for both RV travelers and tent campers seeking comfort and dramatic desert beauty.

Location & Setting

The campground lies in the western section of Valley of Fire State Park, just a short drive from the visitor center and the main scenic roads. Nestled among towering red sandstone formations, basalt outcrops, and open desert floor, Atlatl Rock Campground provides a spectacular natural backdrop visible right from your campsite. The elevation is around 2,000 feet, bringing hot summers, mild shoulder seasons, and cool winter nights. The famous petroglyph-covered Atlatl Rock is only a short walk away, adding cultural significance to the campground’s dramatic setting.

Campground Overview

Atlatl Rock Campground features reservable sites, accommodating both RVs and tents. Sites are large, level, and well-spaced, with many tucked against sandstone walls that offer shade pockets and wind protection. This is one of the few campgrounds in the park with sites featuring electrical and water hookups, making it particularly popular with RV travelers. Several pull-through sites are available, and the campground is paved throughout for easy navigation.

Amenities

Amenities at Atlatl Rock Campground are some of the best in Valley of Fire. Campsites include picnic tables, fire rings, grills, and shade structures—extremely valuable on hot desert days. Flush restrooms and modern showers are available, a major convenience for extended stays. Select sites offer electrical and water hookups, and potable water spigots are located throughout the loops. A dump station is available nearby. While the campground feels remote and deeply peaceful, these amenities make it one of the most comfortable desert campgrounds in Nevada.

Activities & Nearby Highlights

From camp, visitors can easily explore many of the park’s most recognizable landmarks. Atlatl Rock, known for its towering cliffside petroglyph panel, is within walking distance. Arch Rock, the scenic Arch Rock Trail, and the surrounding red rock formations offer excellent photography, scrambling, and short hikes. A short drive brings you to the White Domes area, Fire Canyon Overlook, Rainbow Vista, and the park’s world-famous Fire Wave. Wildlife viewing is common, with desert bighorn sheep often seen roaming the nearby cliffs. After dark, the wide open desert sky delivers exceptional stargazing.

Summary

Atlatl Rock Campground blends dramatic red rock scenery with modern comforts, making it one of the most desirable places to stay within Valley of Fire State Park. With spacious sites, shade structures, showers, and access to both petroglyphs and iconic formations, it’s a perfect base for exploring Nevada’s oldest and most visually striking state park. Whether you’re road-tripping in an RV, camping under the desert sky, or photographing the sandstone landscape, Atlatl Rock delivers an unforgettable Valley of Fire experience.