Off-Road Guide to Nellis Dunes OHV Area - Nellis Dunes

Q: Can you camp at Nellis Dunes?

No, camping is strictly prohibited at Nellis Dunes. This is a Day Use Only area. While night riding is often tolerated, setting up camp or overnighting is against regulations.

Q: Are there restrooms or facilities at Nellis Dunes?

No, there are no restrooms, no water sources, and no trash services at Nellis Dunes. You must pack out everything you pack in and plan your hydration and sanitation needs before you arrive.

Q: How do I get to Nellis Dunes from Las Vegas?

Head North on I-15 from Las Vegas, pass the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, take Exit 58 (Apex / Nellis AFB), turn RIGHT at the off-ramp stop sign, then immediately turn LEFT into the dirt clearing. GPS coordinates: 36 17' 15.7" N, 114 58' 09.7" W.

Q: What vehicles are allowed at Nellis Dunes?

Nellis Dunes accommodates various off-road vehicles including ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes, sand rails, and rock crawlers. The southeast dunes are best for sand-oriented vehicles while the northern ridges suit technical climbers.

Q: Is there an entrance fee for Nellis Dunes?

No, there are no gate fees at Nellis Dunes. It is free public land managed by the BLM (Bureau of Land Management).

About The Area

The Proving Ground

Just 15 miles north of the neon glow of the Las Vegas Strip, the pavement ends and the real Mojave begins.

10,000+

Acres of Terrain

1,900 ft

Elevation

3 Types

Sand, Clay & Shale

Nellis Dunes (officially the Nellis Dunes OHV Recreation Area) is a chaotic, beautiful, and unrestricted playground that has served the local off-road community for decades. Unlike the highly regulated parks of California, Nellis retains a spirit of the Wild West - no gate fees, no marked trails. Just you, your machine, and thousands of acres of diverse terrain.

Field Report

Terrain Zones

The park is geographically split into distinct zones. Knowing where to unload your trailer defines your day.

Southeast Dunes

Beginner - Intermediate

The most popular area, accessible immediately from the main entrance. Soft, rolling sand dunes offering endless flow.

Best For: ATVs, Sand Rails, Paddle Tires

Tech: High RPM, Momentum

Northern Ridges

Intermediate - Expert

Technical climbing territory with hard-pack dirt, loose gravel, and sharp shale. Steep ascents and narrow single-track.

Best For: Dirt Bikes, UTVs, Crawlers

Tech: Suspension, Torque, Skid Plates

Critical Information

Know The Hazards

Nellis Dunes is unforgiving. Read these warnings before you visit.

No Camping

Day use only. Camping is strictly prohibited - this rule is enforced.

No Facilities

No restrooms, no water, no trash services. Pack in, pack out.

Extreme Heat

Summer temps exceed 130F. Bring 1+ gallon of water per person.

Directions

How To Get There

Just 15 minutes from downtown Las Vegas. Don't rely on GPS alone - follow these landmarks.

From Las Vegas

1 Head North on I-15 from Las Vegas
2 Pass the Las Vegas Motor Speedway on your left
3 Take Exit 58 (Apex / Nellis AFB)
4 At the stop sign, turn RIGHT
5 Immediately turn LEFT into the dirt clearing

GPS Coordinates

36° 17' 15.7" N

114° 58' 09.7" W

Apex Valley, Nevada Open in Maps

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