There is no specific visitor center hours mentioned for Basin and Range National Monument; instead, the monument itself is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except for seasonal or weather-related closures. For more information, contact the Nevada BLM Caliente Field Office at 775-726-8100.
There is no entrance fee at Basin and Range National Monument. Entry is free for all visitors.
From Las Vegas, head north on Highway 93, then turn east and follow State Route 318, a scenic route through Nevada’s rugged landscape, to reach this untouched wilderness near Alamo.
Parking is available on dirt roads and at campsites, suitable for cars, RVs up to 20 feet, and motorcycles. No paved lots or fees; overnight parking allowed at campsites on a first-come, first-served basis.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
In the vast expanse of southeastern Nevada, where the Mojave Desert and the Great Basin converge, lies the Basin and Range National Monument, a sprawling 704,000-acre tapestry of geological, ecological, and cultural significance. This remote yet accessible treasure is about two hours north of Las Vegas, offering an escape into a world of rugged beauty and untouched wilderness.
The monument’s landscape is defined by the dramatic Worthington and Seaman Mountains, the Golden Gate and Mount Irish Ranges, and the serene valleys of Garden and Coal. Here, ancient petroglyphs at the Shooting Gallery site tell the stories of Native American cultures that date back 4,000 years. The terrain is dotted with unique rock formations and narrows, such as the Hiko and White River Narrows, which invite hikers and explorers to delve into their natural grandeur.
Wildlife thrives in this arid yet vibrant environment, with desert bighorn sheep, golden eagles, and a diverse array of bats, lizards, and snakes calling this monument home. Under the clear, dark skies, stargazing is a nightly spectacle that aligns perfectly with the area’s minimalist charm.
For the adventurous, hiking trails weave through the wilderness areas, including the Worthington Mountains Wilderness, offering paths to natural arches and hidden vistas. Camping options range from RV sites at Pattersons Pass Campground to more primitive settings, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in the natural beauty.
While there are no historic lodges within the monument, the nearby town of Hiko provides a glimpse into rural Nevada life, with its quaint shops and local eateries. The area remains untouched by urban chaos, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a genuine outdoor experience.
Seasonal changes bring their own allure; spring blooms paint the desert floor with vibrant colors, while autumn brings a cooler respite from the summer heat. Though there are no summer concerts or ranger-led tours here, the solitude and natural beauty of Basin and Range National Monument offer a unique and enriching experience for any traveler seeking to connect with the raw beauty of the American wilderness.
- Area (mi²)
- 1100
- Annual visitors
- 7 843
- Established year
- 2015
Top 3 Facts about Basin and Range National Monument
This area is home to Michael Heizer’s massive earth art piece, City, which is similar in size to the National Mall in Washington, spanning an area comparable to 1.1 square miles.
In this vast desert landscape, pronghorn antelope and bighorn sheep roam alongside coyotes and bobcats. Smaller inhabitants include kangaroo rats, kit foxes, and jackrabbits, while red-tailed hawks and golden eagles soar overhead. The flora is marked by sage and blackbrush, with Mirabilis multiflora adding a touch of color. Ancient petroglyphs and unique geological formations like Natural Arch and vertical rock towers, crafted from ash-flow tuff, punctuate the terrain. This is a realm where wild beauty and geological history converge.
In this vast, untouched expanse, the Worthington Mountains rise dramatically, their rugged peaks a testament to the region’s geological prowess. Here, desert bighorn sheep roam freely, and the golden eagle soars overhead, while the Golden Gate Range and Seaman Range stand sentinel, their unique rock formations a kaleidoscope of earthy hues. The Hiko Narrows and White River Narrows carve through the landscape, sculpting paths that reveal the area’s ancient history, with Native American rock art dating back 4,000 years.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a 3-day trip during mild spring or fall seasons, avoiding extreme weather. Bring a 4×4 vehicle, high clearance, and a spare tire for dirt roads. Pack ample water, snacks, and gear; no paved roads or services. Rest frequently on rugged terrain. Enjoy stargazing at night.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for temperature fluctuations, a map, compass, and GPS for navigation, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for sun protection, and a first aid kit and portable charger for emergencies. Bring a backpack or waterproof bag to keep gear dry. Consider electrolyte supplements and a cooler with food and water.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid disrupting their natural behavior. Never feed or approach animals, and keep pets under control. Respect the land by staying on designated trails and disposing of waste properly. Be mindful of seasonal weather conditions and local regulations.
Stay Informed
Stay informed about weather, fire restrictions, and park rules. Exercise caution on trails, near ledges, and around water or hot springs. For emergencies, call park authorities at 911 or the park’s emergency number. Stay on marked paths to minimize risks.
Seasons
In spring, temperatures fluctuate from 20s to 70s Fahrenheit, bringing wildflowers and wildlife back to life. March and April offer ideal conditions for hiking, biking, and stargazing under clear skies, though be prepared for variable weather and potential mud.
Explore Nevada’s vast desert landscapes in the sweltering summer months (June to August, temperatures often over 100°F). Despite the heat, experience unparalleled stargazing in some of the darkest skies. No specific summer events, but the solitude and ancient petroglyphs make it a unique adventure. Be prepared for extreme heat and limited services.
Explore sweeping desert landscapes and mountain ranges in the crisp autumn air, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F. Visit in September for the Astronomy Festival, marveling at clear dark skies. Be prepared for unpredictable weather and limited services.
Experience winter’s serene solitude from December to February, with temperatures often below freezing. Crisp air and snow-dusted landscapes offer a unique, untouched beauty, though cell service is unreliable and access may be limited due to weather. Ideal for those seeking tranquil, unspoiled nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Basin and Range National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
The drive from Las Vegas takes about two hours, covering a distance of between 110 and 180 miles. You need to drive north on Interstate-15 to Highway 93 and then continue past the towns of Alamo and Ash Springs. The monument is located off Nevada Highway 318.
-
Dogs must be restrained or kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They must also wear a collar with current tags and owners must pick up after their dogs.
-
Overnight RV parking is allowed, but there are limitations. At Hot Creek Campground, campsites are available for all sizes of RVs and are free on a first-come, first-served basis. At Pattersons Pass Campground, RVs must be 38 feet or less, and it is considered dry camping with no hook-ups or potable water.
-
You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, camping, and climbing at this monument. Other activities include exploring ghost towns like Logan City, visiting historic sites such as the White River Narrows Petroglyph Site, and observing unique plants and animals. The area also offers opportunities for cattle grazing and mining, though it’s important to respect abandoned buildings and stay out of abandoned mines.