I’ve realized something recently–that is that my family is incredibly lucky. We live within driving distance to several National Parks and beautiful natural wonders. However, I know for lots of people that’s not the case. I was talking to my husband about how it’s so easy for us to a take a weekend trip to a handful of places that most people will never have the opportunity to see in their lives. So I’ve decided to start a blog series for those of you who aren’t as location-fortunate as we are. If you would need to take a plane to get to a National Park, I want to give you central locations that you can easily fly into and explore from there! So today I’m starting this series with six National Parks that are close to Las Vegas.
about Las Vegas, Nevada
Average temperatures in Las Vegas range from highs of 59° in the winter to 107° in the summer. Although Las Vegas is not the capital of Nevada it is the largest city with a lot to do while it serves as your home base! Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is conveniently located next to the strip. Looking for a family-friendly place to stay? Check out our review of the Mandalay Bay resort here!
6 National Parks close to Las Vegas
I’m a big believer that anytime of year is a good time to visit National Parks. However, keep in mind the geographical location of these National Parks. I recommend visiting them in the winter or spring if you can. Not only will you experience better temperatures, but crowds are typically lower than during summer break also.
Death Valley NP (2 hours from Las Vegas)
At over 3 million acres there’s plenty to explore in Death Valley National Park. There are lots of hikes that are flat and relatively easy for kids, as long as you plan for the heat. Summer temperatures are in the triple digits and there isn’t a lot of shade. Always make sure to bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen. Consider staying in the park at The Oasis at Death Valley.
Zion NP (3 hours from Las Vegas)
Zion National Park is probably the most famous of the Utah Mighty 5 parks. Located in the town of Springville and designated a Certified Dark Sky Park you can get into nature without getting too away from it all. There’s also some fun hikes involving water sources to cool off with if you do happen to visit during the hotter months.
Joshua Tree NP (4 hours from Las Vegas)
You’ll find Joshua Tree National Park where the Mojave and Colorado deserts come together. If you’ve only got a few hours to visit you can easily drive through the park in a few hours. However, I highly recommend planning your day so you can get out and explore. Kids will especially love stretching their legs and bouldering at Skull Rock.
Bryce Canyon (4½ hours from Las Vegas)
Bryce Canyon National Park is another of the Utah Mighty 5 and is located roughly and hour from Zion. This park might seem familiar to you the first time you see it. That’s because Bryce Canyon is the inspiration behind the design of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disneyland. Seeing the famous hoodoos formations will leave you speechless!
Great Basin NP (4½ hours from Las Vegas)
Great Basin is the only National Park located in the state of Nevada. Interestingly though, this is one of the National Parks included in this list that is furthest away from Las Vegas. Here you’ll be able to experience limestone caves, alpine meadows, desert environments, and more. A guided tour of Lehman Caves is a must and tickets can be bought for a nominal fee.
Grand Canyon (4 hours from Las Vegas)
The Grand Canyon is a must-see in your lifetime–all the pictures and videos you’ll see can never do it justice. You can drive to the south rim of the canyon in about 4 hours, and the north rim in about 4½ hours. On the way to the south rim you’ll have the opportunity to drive over the Hoover Dam! Make sure you stop at a Visitor Center and pick up a Junior Ranger booklet for your kids to work on.
Did you know there were so many National Parks close to Las Vegas?
