Gold Butte National Monument wilderness guide
National Monument · NV

Gold Butte National Monument

Gold Butte National Monument is a remote and rugged landscape in southern Nevada known for its stunning red rock formations and rich cultural history.

National Monument296,9372+ Trails

Designation

National Monument

Total Wilderness Area

296,937

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Gold Butte National Monument

Gold Butte National Monument is a remote and rugged landscape in southern Nevada known for its stunning red rock formations and rich cultural history.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Gold Butte National Monument spans over 296,937 acres in southern Nevada, offering a diverse landscape of dramatic red sandstone formations, Joshua trees, and ancient rock art. Established in 2016, this monument preserves significant natural and cultural resources, including petroglyphs and artifacts left by Native American tribes. The area is characterized by its isolation and offers wilderness enthusiasts a true backcountry experience with limited facilities or infrastructure. Key recreational activities include hiking across the scenic landscapes, observing the unique desert wildlife, and exploring the historical sites found throughout the monument. Visitors can also enjoy the solitude afforded by the monument's remote location, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat into nature.

Field Guide · National Monument
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Gold Butte National Monument

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

Whitney Pocket, known for its fascinating rock formations and petroglyphsThe Little Finland area, celebrated for its unique and intricate rock formationsDevils Throat, a giant sinkhole providing geological interestHistoric Gold Butte Townsite, offering a glimpse into the area's mining history
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Gold Butte National Monument

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Gold Butte National Monument.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access with no entrance fees.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Gold Butte National Monument

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Whitney Pocket

Offers basic camping with no services, allowing close proximity to prominent rock art and formations.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Gold Butte National Monument

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Temple Bar Marina, Arizona
18.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Temple Bar Marina, Arizona

Temple Bar Marina in Arizona offers waterside fun on Lake Mead with boating, fishing, and kayaking, plus nearby hiking and camping in desert surroundings. It's a peaceful spot for outdoor lovers looking to escape the crowds.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Overton, Nevada
21.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Overton, Nevada

Overton, Nevada, offers outdoor lovers a prime basecamp for desert hiking, boating, and paddling adventures near Valley of Fire State Park and Lake Mead. Visitors enjoy stunning red rock scenery, quiet river paddles, and starry desert nights.

Fall through Spring
Explore Town
Moapa Valley, Nevada
21.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Moapa Valley, Nevada

Moapa Valley offers desert hiking, off-road thrills, and vibrant wildlife viewing against a backdrop of red rock canyons and warm springs. A peaceful town that serves as the ideal base for adventurers seeking quiet desert escapes in Nevada’s Mojave.

March to May and September to November
Explore Town
Meadview, Arizona
21.90 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Meadview, Arizona

Meadview, Arizona, is a peaceful desert town perched above Lake Mead and the Grand Canyon West Rim, perfect for hiking, boating, fishing, and off-roading adventures in a stunning, less-crowded setting.

Fall and Spring
Explore Town
Bunkerville, Nevada
33.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bunkerville, Nevada

Bunkerville offers a peaceful desert setting with access to hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and fishing along the Colorado River. Its quiet landscapes and rich wildlife make it a great basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Mesquite, Nevada
36.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mesquite, Nevada

Mesquite, Nevada is a desert adventurer's haven with a wealth of outdoor activities. Hike, bike, or off-road through its sunny landscapes and relax with its picturesque golf courses.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Gold Butte National Monument

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

A 7‑Hour Small‑Group Day in the Fire‑Forged Landscapes of Nevada
ADVEXPEDITION
Las Vegas, Nevada
Guided TourADV Bookable

A 7‑Hour Small‑Group Day in the Fire‑Forged Landscapes of Nevada

A focused, small‑group tour from Las Vegas that spends roughly five hours inside Valley of Fire State Park with guided hikes, photo stops, and included snacks, drinks and lunch—this guide lays out what to expect and how to prepare.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
A 21-Foot Rush: The Campion Sport Boat at Cottonwood Cove
ADVEXPEDITION
Cottonwood Cove, Nevada
Boat RentalADV Bookable

A 21-Foot Rush: The Campion Sport Boat at Cottonwood Cove

A concise, operator-run rental of a 21' Campion with a 250 hp outboard—built for skiing, tubing and wakeboarding at speeds of roughly 40+ mph; this guide lays out what the boat offers, how to book, and what to expect on the water.

Boat RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
At the Edge: A Full‑Day Journey to the Grand Canyon West Rim
ADVEXPEDITION
Grand Canyon West, Arizona
Sightseeing TourADV Bookable

At the Edge: A Full‑Day Journey to the Grand Canyon West Rim

A 12.5‑hour, bus-based sightseeing tour from Las Vegas that moves between Eagle, Guana Point and broad Colorado River vistas, with an optional Skywalk stop—this guide distills what to expect and how to plan.

Sightseeing TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip