DESERT NATIONAL WILDLIFE RANGE
1,588,000 acres. Located in the Mohave Desert of southern Nevada, the primary purpose of this huge National Wildlife Range is to protect desert bighorn sheep. It’s the largest wildlife refuge in the country outside of Alaska.
The area encompasses several mountain ranges, with elevations from 2,500 feet to 10,000 feet. The western half of the refuge is an Air Force bombing range, and this portion is closed to the public.
Vegetation includes pine and fir forests at higher elevations, pinyon and juniper woodlands, with Joshua tree as well as yucca and cactus, In
addition to bighorn sheep, there are also mule deer, coyote, mountain lion, bobcat, and fox.
Activities: Backpacking and hiking are possible here, as is horseback riding, although there are few trails. Limited hunting is permitted in season.
Camping Regulations: Established primitive campsites are found in two locations. Camping is allowed elsewhere in most parts of the range, but sites must be at least one-quarter mile from water sources and out of sight of the water. Campers are asked to sign in at the Corn Creek Field Station upon entering and leaving the National Wildlife Range. Campfires are permitted.
For Further Information: Desert National Wildlife Range, 1500 North Decatur Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89108; (702)646-3401.
