FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   June 1, 2004
CONTACT: Kirsten Cannon   (702) 515-5057

Red Rock Canyon Campground Set to Close for Summer

Las Vegas -- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area’s developed campground -- Red Rock Canyon Campground -- is scheduled to temporarily close from June 1 to September 2 due to limited visitation during the hotter summer months.

“Summer usually represents our lowest level of usage,” said Tim O’Brien, National Conservation Area Manager. “By temporarily closing the developed campground during this time, our staff is able to focus projects on that a greater number of visitors will enjoy.”

The past several years have shown summer capacity averaging about six percent. The rest of the year averages at least 50 percent capacity.

Limited backcountry camping (no facilities) at Red Rock Canyon is available by permit only. Those who wish to apply for the free permit should call 515-5050 for more information.  Camping is allowed on BLM land outside of the Las Vegas Valley for up to two weeks without charge. Popular primitive (no facilities) sites include Bitter Spring Back Country Byway, Gold Butte Back Country Byway, Knob Hill, Virgin Mountains, Christmas Tree Pass and Logandale Trails System.

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The Red Rock Canyon Campground, formally known as 13-Mile Campground,
was opened in 1998 and is located two miles west of the Red Rock Canyon National
Conservation Area visitor center on Highway 159. The campground features 66 individual
campsites and 5 group campsites. Most campsites include a picnic table and grill.
Water and toilets are located nearby. No hookups area available.