Nature Photography Near Las Vegas: Valley of Fire
29450 Valley of Fire Hwy, Overton, NV 89040
Rich red sandstone and unique rock formations make this nature photography location near Las Vegas a great backdrop for any photographer. A fantastic place to shoot portraits with a nature setting. Perhaps you want to make the scenery itself the star and create some stunning nature imagery. If you are a nature photographer, this location has dreamy colors and formations. It also offers a great way to encounter desert wildlife such as bighorn sheep.
I would recommend photographing the White Dome Trail to get the most bang for your buck in a short hike. Full of valley views, slot canyons, and remarkable rock formations that scream to be photographed. Three more must see spots before you depart the park are Fire Wave, Elephant Rock and Atlatl Rock. There is not much shade in the desert, so make sure to check temperatures before you go. I would avoid visiting in the summer.
Nature Photography Near Las Vegas: Mt. Charleston
6225 Lee Canyon Rd, Mt Charleston, NV 89124
Escape the desert views with some green trees and cooler temps. This must visit location not far from Las Vegas, is a sweet escape from the hustle and bustle. With Lee Canyon Ski and Snowboard Resort located here, this is your best chance to play in the snow. One of the best places to shoot portraits is in Lee Meadow. A beautiful open meadow that looks like it fell out of a fairy tale. Perfect for an engagement shoot, family photos, or any kind portrait session. Tall trees, green meadow, and on most days a wild horse or two. Now if you go while there is a decent amount of snow, I would not recommend this area as it is used for sledding, so parking becomes incredibly difficult.
Another great thing about Mt. Charleston is the scenery changes pretty quickly. Cactus and dirt one minute, to snow and tall green trees at the next. This makes it easy for you to get a wide variety of looks all in one place. It’s a lovely scenic drive and there are an abundant of places to pull over and take advantage of the photographic nature. So hit the road and check out this nature photography location near Las Vegas.
Nature Photography: Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161
Probably the most well known wilderness attraction near the strip. A popular nature photography location near Las Vegas for a reason, in fact it became so popular that you need a reservation to access most places in the park. If you didn’t get a chance to make a reservation, don’t fret there are still a ton of places you can access free of charge and planning.
The first place I would recommend checking out is Calico Basin before you get to the scenic drive entrance. This spot has a large parking area and beautiful views perfect for the camera. Whether you stay near the Red Spring Picnic Area, or you venture out on one of the longer trails, you can find many outstanding views here.
Should you continue on highway 159 past the scenic drive loop entrance, make sure to stop at the Red Rock Canyon Overlook. A great place to take in an overall view of red rocks that gives this place its name. The lookout even has a short trail that at times will let you break away from the crowds that gather at this scenic location.
If you make a reservation and find yourself on the scenic loop drive, make sure to check out the Ice Box Canyon Trail. If you are a fan of waterfalls, this short hike will let you find one in the desert. Just make sure to check out the weather as the falls does not always have falling water. If you do decide to trek to the falls, a backpack for your gear would be a smart move. There have been times when having your hands free will help you maneuver some rocks to cross the water.
Nature Photography: Lake Mead National Recreation Area
10 Lakeshore Rd, Boulder City, NV 89005
So many hidden gems in this natural wonderland. Besides the obvious beautiful lake that seems to have a leak in it, the trails and rivers are also noteworthy and so picture worthy. If you want to avoid the crowds, there are some crazy unique and inspiring spots that are begging for a nature or portrait photographer to explore. The Shoreline Trail is not super trafficked and has some lovely river views and slot canyons. You may have to hike in a touch to get to the best scenery, but it’s unlike any other nature location near Las Vegas I have encountered.
If you are looking for a better view of the lake and a fun and popular trail with unique scenery, you may want to check out the Historic Railroad Hiking Trail. This gravel packed fun for the whole family trail would be a great place for a family portrait or fun fashion spread. Allowing you to pass through 5 tunnels and make your way all the way to the Hoover Dam, this trail is a fun way to explore Nevada.
Nature Photography Near Las Vegas: Eldorado Dry Lake Bed
El Dorado Dry Lake Bed, Boulder City, NV 89005
Las Vegas is known for its Dry Lake Beds and this is one of the more popular ones. While you may be out in nature, you will likely run into quite a bit of traffic from the dirt bikers, off roaders, motorcycles, and even hang gliders. But despite all that, the dry lake beds really do photograph well. This one located near Boulder City and the above Lake Mead National Recreation area if you wanted to make a day of it.
Highly recommend a sunrise, sunset, or golden hour shoot while out there. Just remember there is no shade and our temps here in the desert get pretty warm, so it may not be the best place to visit in the summer. You are required to get permits for professional photography shoots at this location. The permit process can take some time, so make sure to plan in advance.
Nature Photography Near Las Vegas: Nelson Ghost Town
Nelson Cutoff Rd, Searchlight, NV 89046
What a little gem that I slept on for far too long. This adorable little town is a photographer’s dream, and not far from some of the other locations we have already covered. Perhaps if only in town for a short time combining some of these locations would be ideal. This location, complete with a small adorable chapel, would be a great place for engagement photos or a small wedding ceremony. Definitely unique to the desert, but so unlike the classic nature spots listed already. Located in Eldorado Canyon the home of the historical Techatticup Mine. Which is one of the more famous gold mines in Southern Nevada. This spot is a tourist stop, but if you continue past the the ghost town you can actually pass some hoodoos on your way to the Colorado River. Another fun nature photography location near Las Vegas worth checking out.
Nature Photography Near Las Vegas: Clark County Wetlands Park
Clark County Wetlands Park, 7050 Wetlands Park Ln, Las Vegas, NV 89122
Well this is easily one of my favorite places in Vegas. That is most likely because I am a bicycle enthusiast and the trails here are some of my favorites. As a photography location it is also a top notch spot in Clark County. So many different scenes all in one spot makes this a great place for a diverse shoot. Perfect for family portraits or nature photography. This nature reserve has all sorts of wildlife and hidden spots. Make sure to take advantage of the many trails to find the little easter eggs located at this destination. If you are a fan of wildlife, keep an eye out for roadrunners, snakes, tortoise and other fun desert creatures.
