Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
A natural oasis in the Desert. Located about 90 miles northwest of Las Vegas in Amargosa Valley, it consists of over 22,000 acres of spring-fed wetlands and alkaline desert uplands. Here can be found more than 20 plants and animals found nowhere else in the world, including a few on the endangered list. Here can be seen environmental extremes from Sand dunes, to ash tree groves, to wetlands all in one desert environment. Open sunrise-sunset. Refuge Manager: (702) - 372-5435

Beaver Dam State Park
One of the most rustic parks in Nevada, Beaver Dam State Park has deep canyon, forests of juniper and pinion pine, a beautiful flowing stream and a reservoir. This is a perfect spot for photography or nature study. Or you can try fishing, camping, picnicking and hiking. Boats are not recommended on the reservoir. Campgrounds, group use areas, picnic areas, interpretive trails are available. Weather permitting, the park is open all year. It is not recommended to travel during the winter months due to the 5000 foot elevation off a gravel road. Located 34 miles east of Caliente, 6 miles north on US Hwy 93, then 28 miles east on a graded road. For more information contact: Beaver Dam State Park, Panaca Region Headquarters, P.O.Box 176, Panaca, NV, 89042, (702) 728-4467

Davis Dam
About 90 miles further downstream from Hoover Dam, just before you get to Laughlin, Nevada is Davis Dam. Completed in 1953 to control the frequent flooding on the Colorado river the dam made possible the development and commercialization of Laughlin, NV and Bullhead City, AZ. Self-guided tours have been discontinued at the present time. For more information contact: Laughlin Visitors Bureau, PO Box 502, Laughlin, NV 89029, (800) 452-8445.

Death Valley National Monument
Death Valley includes the lowest dry point below sea level in the Western Hemisphere (280 feet), a museum, Scotty's Castle at the northern tip, and even a couple of inns in case you decide to stay a while. Located about 140 miles northwest of Las Vegas. Death Valley Visitors Center & Museum: 786-2331

Echo Canyon State Park
This park offers beautiful scenery and a 65 acre reservoir. Exploration of the native plants and unique rock formations is a popular activity. Wildlife is abundant for nature study. Camping, boating, fishing, hiking and picnicking are available. The park is open all year but visitors can expect snow during the winter months due to its 5200 foot elevation. Located 12 miles east of Pioche from Star Routes 322 and 323. For more information contact: Echo Canyon State Park, Star Route, Box 295, Pioche, NV, (702) 962-5103.

Floyd Lamb State Park
This park was formerly known as Tule Springs. Its history includes an early winter stopping point for Native Americans, and later a working ranch. In the 1950's it was popular as a guest ranch where, patrons could wait out the 6 week Nevada residency requirement to get a quick divorce. Groves of shade trees surround 4 small fishing lakes. A nice respite from the summer sun. Picnic areas have tables and grills. Group areas and walking/bike paths are available. Located 10 miles north of Las Vegas from US Hwy 95 to Durango to Tule Springs Road. For more information contact: Floyd Lamb State Park, 9200 Tule Springs Road, Las Vegas, NV, 89131, (702) 486-5413.

Grand Canyon National Park
More than a mile deep, 217 miles long, and 4-18 miles wide, the Grand Canyon is a must see. It's somewhat of a drive from Las Vegas being nearly 300 miles away, however there are numerous bus and airplane tours to get you to and from this popular site, including those listed below. Grand Canyon Information Center (602) 638-7888.

Hoover Dam
Only 30 miles south of Las Vegas is one of mans greatest architectural achievements. Still in operation since the 30's supplying electrical power to Nevada, Arizona and California, it is truly a wonder to see. Visitors can actually go into the depths of the dam and tour the inner workings. Or you can peer over the edge of the nearly 800 foot drop while standing in two time zones at once! A nearby museum shows movies and artifacts involving it's creation. The beautiful new visitors center, at the edge of the dam, opened in September 95 and ironically enough cost much more to build than the dam itself did 60 years ago. Open 9:00am-4:15pm daily. Adm: $5 Adults, $2.50 Seniors & Children 10-16, Children under 10 free; Includes tour of dam and movie. (702) 293-8367.

Kershaw-Ryan State Park
A spring-fed pond in this park offered early settlers a place to grow grapes, trees and even lawns. This is in sharp contrast to the rocky canyon walls which tower over the little valley. Hiking trails, picnic areas and campgrounds offer a variety of activities in this park. This park is at the north end of Rainbow Canyon. Located 3 miles south of Caliente off US Hwy 93 to Star Route 317. For more information contact: Kershaw-Ryan State Park, Panaca Region Headquarters, P.O. Box 176, Panaca, NV, 89042, (702) 728-4467.

Kyle Ranch
Once part of a large ranch, what remains of it here is acknowledged as the oldest standing building in Las Vegas. It is located, just off Losee Road on the northeast corner of Carey Ave and Commerce Street in North Las Vegas. The unassuming stone and wood ranch house and nearby white shed date back to the mid 1850's when the entire valley was little more than a railroad stop and ranching predominated rather than gambling. If you visit the site, please respect all nearby areas marked "private property" and "no trespassing". No admission charge.

Lake Havasu/London Bridge
Brought over stone by stone and reconstructed in 1971, Lake Havasu's London Bridge forms the central focus of a modern "Old English Village" on the shore of the lake. Dozens of gift shops, antique shops and cafes line the shore of this man-made lake north of Parker Dam. Boating, fishing and many other water sports are available. This is also the well known site of numerous televised water sports tournaments. Additional Info: Call the Lake Havasu Tourist Bureau: 1-800-242-8278.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Covering 300 square miles (and at least one drowned city) Lake Mead is the largest man made lake in the United States. With nearly 600 miles of shoreline it's easy to find plenty of room to pursue your interest, whether it be boating, fishing, swimming or ski-doo-ing. Only 35 miles southeast of Las Vegas. Nevada fishing licenses are available at all local marinas, boating and bait shops. House and ski boat rentals are plentiful    National Parks Service (702) 293-8906.

Mount Charleston/Toiyabe National Forest
Located only 35 miles north of Las Vegas on route 95, Mount Charleston is where the locals go in the summer to beat the heat. Nearly always an average 30 degrees cooler than downtown Las Vegas (due to being nearly two miles higher in altitude), it's a great place to get away from the gambling scene for a while. It's also fun to open the car windows and turn off the air conditioning as you turn off route 95 to feel the drastic temperature change as you head the last few miles up the mountain. Skiing is available in the winter months and horseback riding in the summer months and full services are available inexpensively for camping in May thru September.

Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park
In 1855, the first permanent non-native settlers to the Las Vegas valley were Mormon missionaries. They built an adobe fort which now serves as a visitor center. These settlers lived here by farming the area using diverted water from a nearby creek. This park is currently under development to include more historic interpretations and re-created features. The park is open all year. Located in Las Vegas at Las Vegas Boulevard and Washington Avenue. For more information contact: Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park, 908 Las Vegas Blvd. North, Las Vegas, NV, 89101, (702) 486-3511.

Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge
A Waterfowl Oasis in the Desert. Virtually hidden on highway 93 about 90 miles northeast of Las Vegas is this honest to goodness natural oasis. Pahranagat is surrounded on either side by 90 miles of arid creosote bush desert and an occasional Joshua tree, but is an important stopping point for migrating waterfowl and other birds. The 5,380 acre area provides a diverse range of habitats from desert to cultivated fields, marsh and open water, for an equally diverse range of wildlife from jackrabbits and bull frogs to blackbirds, roadrunners, mallards and hawks. Hunting, fishing, camping and non-motorized boating are quite popular year-round in this area. To get there, take I-15 north to the I-93 cutoff. Take I-93 North towards Alamo/Tonopah and you'll see it on the left about 60 miles from the junction right after passing through the loveliest tiny green canyon (watch for the old stone ruins on the top of the sheer cliff to the West). For more information contact: Refuge Mgr, Pahranagat NWR, PO Box 510, Alamo, NV 89001 (702)725-3417 or Desert NWR, 1500 N Decatur Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89108, (702) 646-3401.

Parker Dam
About 88 miles South of Laughlin and downstream from Davis Dam is Parker Dam. It is known as the worlds "DEEPEST" dam. 65 percent of its structural height is located under the water. This dam's construction made possible Lake Havasu in Arizona. For more information contact: Parker Chamber of Commerce, 1217 California Ave, Parker, AZ 85344, (760) 669-2174.

Red Rock Canyon
Also near Old Nevada just 15 miles outside of town on the west side is Red Rock Canyon. A large patch of native, brilliant red sandstone makes this a unique, natural sightseeing spot. You often see desert wildlife from burros to bighorn sheep wandering amidst the washes and numerous small canyons once inhabited by ancient Indian tribes. Often used as backdrops for magazine ads, "Red Rock" (as it's affectionately referred to by locals) provides a number of nice picnic spots, places for rock climbing, 4-wheel driving and spectacular views along the 8 mile scenic loop which is readily accessible by car or bicycle. A four wheel drive, ATV or hardy hiking shoes are recommended for some of the more isolated dirt trails. Tours are available at the visitor's center at the main entrance. Stop at the visitor's center BEFORE you head into the park "loop", as once you get into the park, it's one-way traffic ONLY for 12 miles. Adm: $5/carload/day or $20/annual. (702) 363-1921.

Snow Canyon State Park
Located in 15 minutes from St. George, Utah, Snow Canyon is a multi-colored sandstone canyon. Here you'll find red and white Navajo sandstone are packed against ancient black lava beds. Huge sands dunes, caves and wildflowers create a panorama of true beauty. A camp ground, modern restrooms, hot showers, and RV convenience are at the park. Enjoy hours of photography, hiking, picnicking, horseback riding and camping in Snow Canyon. Best hidden secret of the southwest. Located 11 miles northwest of St George, Utah on Utah 18, Santa Clara, Utah. For more information contact: Snow Canyon State Park, P.O. Box 140, Santa Clara, Utah 84765-0140, (435) 628-2255.

Southern Nevada Zoological-Botanical Park
Not huge as zoos go, but a nice zoo nonetheless. 250 different bird and animal species from all over the world including a children's petting zoo. See an albino alligator and retired show monkeys. Adm.: $5 Adults, $3 Seniors and children under 12. 1775 N Rancho Dr. Open daily 9:00am. (702) 648-5955 or (702) 647-4685.

Spring Mountain Ranch State Park
Just the place for a relaxing afternoon away from the crowd. Situated on the historical Old Spanish Trail and once owned by millionaire Howard Hughes, this park is nestled in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. The many natural springs flowing from the mountains provided the Paiute Indians with water. Take a guided tour through the historic Ranch House and other ranch buildings on weekends and holidays. The visitor's center is open Friday through Monday and all Holidays. Visitors enjoy hiking and picnicking here. They also have a cultural events pavilion. Call about frequent performing arts shows. Located 15 miles west of Las Vegas on State Route 159. For more information contact: Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, P.O. Box 124, Blue Diamond, NV, 89004, (702) 875-4141.

Spring Valley State Park
The 65 acre Eagle Reservoir is the heart of this park. Boating, camping and picnicking are available. You can also tour the historic Ranch House Museum. The park is open all year but deep snow fall may make winter access difficult. Located 20 miles east of Pioche on State Route 322. For more information contact: Spring Valley Star Route, Box 201, Pioche, NV, 89043, (702) 962-5102.

Valley of Fire State Park
About 50 miles northeast of Las Vegas lies the Valley of Fire. Site of numerous movies (including parts of Star Trek: Generations) this 26,000 acre desert landscape is about as far away from civilization as you can get. Here you'll find wonderful stone formations created by the wind and desert sands, ancient Indian petroglyphs (stone carvings) on the rocks and much desert wildlife. To get there take route 15 north then route 169 west. Visitors Center: (702) 397-2088.

Zion National Park
Located in Southern Utah, a short ride from Las Vegas, Zion National Park is open year-round. This majestic park offers breathtaking scenery of waterfalls cascading down red rocks and hanging gardens. The visitor center offers a number of special programs designed for young and old. Hiking with Park Rangers is a favorite pastime here where you can learn all about the flora and fauna. This park has hiking, biking, horseback riding, river tubing, rock climbing, swimming, bird watching, rock hunting and great photography. Near the entrance to Zion National Park is the which shows adventure films on a giant screen. Located 40 miles east of St George, Utah and I-15 on Utah 9, Springdale, Utah. For more information contact: Zion National Park, Springdale, Utah 84767, (435) 772-3256.

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