Desert National Wildlife Refuge

The Desert National Wildlife Refuge is set aside primarily for desert bighorn sheep. The refuge also provides habitat for mule deer, desert reptiles and mammals and migratory birds.

The refuge, established in 1936, is the largest in the 48 contiguous states. It covers 1.6 million acres and preserves an amazing diversity of habitat and wildlife, including seven distinct eco-systems covering six mountain ranges. The habitat types include saltbrush, creosote bush, Joshua tree woodlands, black brush and pinyon-juniper, pine-fir and bristlecone pine woodlands.

Desert Pass offers a day use area and campground. Otherwise, there are no developed campsites. Backpackers may camp in the backcountry and those touring by auto may camp within 100 feet of the edge of the road.

Horseback riding is allowed on the refuge, although there are no designated riding trails. Bicycles are restricted to roads.

The main refuge entrance, through Corn Creek, is located approximately 20 miles northwest of Las Vegas. From Las Vegas, travel on Hwy. 95 North, turning right at the refuge sign.