Dan the Man

Reviewed: Dec 2, 2025

5 out of 5

As a 56-year-old RV camper traveling with my wife and our friendly golden retriever, I’m always on the lookout for scenic sites that offer a great mix of quiet desert beauty and easy access to the best parts of the park. Site #3 at Atlatl Campground in Valley of Fire State Park quickly became one of my favorites, and I’m giving it a full 5-star rating for its unforgettable setting and overall comfort. What makes this site stand out immediately is its stunning backdrop of deep red Aztec sandstone, with the campsite tucked right up against dramatic rock formations. It’s the kind of place where you step out of your RV in the morning and feel like you’ve entered an ancient landscape. Even though the site features a designated tent pad (which I didn’t use with my class B camper van), it’s a nice option for visitors who want flexibility. The shade shelter, picnic table, grill, and fire ring offer everything needed for a relaxing stay, whether you’re cooking outside or soaking in the evening desert atmosphere. It’s important to note that Site #3 has no hookups, so come prepared for dry camping. That said, the lack of hookups didn’t bother me at all because the campground provides excellent amenities nearby. Hot showers, flushing toilets, and sinks make a huge difference in comfort and convenience, especially after a warm day exploring the park. Valley of Fire’s facilities are some of the nicest you’ll find in a desert state park setting. One of the biggest advantages of this campsite is its proximity to Atlatl Rock, famous for its well-preserved petroglyphs. Having these thousands-of-years-old carvings just steps away was a real highlight and added a deeper sense of history to the experience. During my stay, I also spotted bighorn sheep wandering through the campground, which was a special moment—these animals are iconic to the region, and seeing them so close is always a treat. Evenings here are incredible. Valley of Fire is known for clear desert skies, and Site #3 is great for stargazing, especially once the campground quiets down. The red rocks frame the night sky beautifully, making it easy to enjoy constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way on a good night. Overall, Site #3 at Atlatl Campground checks all the boxes for anyone who enjoys dramatic scenery, peace, wildlife, and great access to the park’s cultural treasures. Whether you’re RV camping, tent camping, or just looking for a memorable place to land in Valley of Fire, this site delivers. I’d happily return again.