When you think of Las Vegas, you usually think of casinos. So, the image of setting up a tent and starting a fire at a dusty campground might not come to mind.

However, just a 30-minute drive away, you can find a variety of landscapes, from red sandstone cliffs to lakes, tall mountains, and endless desert campgrounds and national parks.

Thus, Las Vegas is not just a city for gambling and entertainment; it also serves as a great base camp for camping and hiking.

The closest spot is Red Rock Canyon. It's about 17 miles west of Las Vegas, taking around 30 minutes by car.

The stunning views of red rocks and desert landscapes make it enjoyable for first-time visitors. Red Rock Campground has about 70 sites, with fees ranging from approximately $20 to $30 per night. However, it can get too hot in the summer, so many campgrounds close from June to August. It's best to make reservations in advance during the popular spring and fall seasons through Recreation.gov.

If you enjoy lakeside camping, Lake Mead is also a good option. It's about 25 miles east of Las Vegas, where you can enjoy camping, boating, fishing, and swimming. Campgrounds like Boulder Beach, Las Vegas Bay, and Callville Bay typically charge around $20 per night. Some sites are available for reservation, but others operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so check before you go. Currently, Lake Mead's water levels have dropped significantly, which has affected its popularity.

If you're looking for a more unique landscape, I recommend the Valley of Fire. It's about an hour from Las Vegas, and as the name suggests, the rocks appear to be on fire with their vibrant red color. Atlatl Rock and Arch Rock Campground are well-known, and some sites offer electrical hookups. The cost is around $20 to $30, and the park entrance fee is separate. You can make reservations through Reserve Nevada.

In the height of summer, Mount Charleston is the best choice. While Las Vegas can exceed 110°F (40°C), it remains much cooler up in the mountains.

It's less than an hour's drive, and the temperature difference makes it a popular escape. Kyle Canyon and McWilliams Campground are notable spots, with fees around $25 to $30 per night. Reservations are recommended for summer weekends as spots fill up quickly.

The Grand Canyon South Rim is farther away. Even if you leave early in the morning, it takes about 4 to 5 hours by car. Mather Campground and Desert View Campground are popular, but reservations can be highly competitive. During peak season, it's best to prepare six months in advance. Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon are also about 2.5 to 3 hours from Las Vegas, making them great additions to your itinerary if time allows.

However, desert camping requires proper preparation. Temperatures can exceed 104°F (40°C) during the day but drop suddenly at night, so packing only light clothing won't suffice.

Be sure to bring a summer jacket like a windbreaker and an outer layer. Don't be complacent just because it's a dry area; sudden heavy rains can lead to flash floods in dry creek beds or washes. To avoid making the news, never set up your tent in dry washes with signs of water flow.

Be cautious of rattlesnakes and scorpions as well. When walking at night, always use a flashlight or headlamp, and make it a habit to shake out shoes or gloves before using them. Keep tent doors and screens securely closed. If you're unlucky, you might end up needing medical attention.

Coyotes and wild burros may also appear near campgrounds. While burros may seem cute, don't approach or feed them. It's safest to store food and trash in well-sealed coolers or vehicles, not inside the tent.

With proper preparation, you can enjoy both the vibrant city and the majestic nature that Las Vegas has to offer. LV is a city where the surrounding nature is too precious to overlook.