Clark County Wetlands Park

Clark County Wetlands Park: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions in Las Vegas

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Clark County Wetlands Park stands as a 2,900-acre natural sanctuary on the eastern edge of the Las Vegas Valley, where the Mojave Desert converges with the lush corridor of the Las Vegas Wash. This expansive park is a refuge for over 300 bird species, diverse mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, and offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience rich wetland ecosystems in an arid landscape. Established in 1991 to address urbanization pressures, the park plays a vital role in habitat restoration, erosion control, and environmental education for the region.

Visitors can explore scenic trails, engage with interactive exhibits at the Wetlands Park Nature Center, participate in guided tours, and enjoy a wide range of family-friendly programs—all free of charge. The park is thoughtfully designed for accessibility, featuring ADA-compliant facilities and wheelchair-accessible trails. Located at 7050 Wetlands Park Lane, it is easily reached via Interstate 515 and Boulder Highway, with ample free parking for guests.

Clark County Wetlands Park is not only a recreational haven but also a living laboratory and community hub that addresses ongoing challenges such as wildfire recovery, invasive species, and urban runoff pollution. Its educational initiatives foster stewardship and deepen appreciation for the region’s unique ecological and cultural significance, including connections to Indigenous heritage.

Whether you’re a local resident, a visiting nature enthusiast, or someone interested in Las Vegas’s historical sites, the park offers a blend of natural beauty, immersive education, and recreational opportunity. For up-to-date visiting hours, event details, and guided tour schedules, consult the official Clark County Wetlands Park website and Wetlands Park Friends. For enhanced experiences, download the Audiala app for guided audio tours and real-time updates.

Discover Clark County Wetlands Park: A Natural Oasis in Las Vegas
Visiting Information
History and Environmental Significance
Things to Do at Clark County Wetlands Park
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Environmental and Operational Challenges
Conservation and Restoration Initiatives
Community Impact and Social Value
Plan Your Visit and Get Involved
References

Discover Clark County Wetlands Park: A Natural Oasis in Las Vegas

Clark County Wetlands Park is an ecological treasure where the Mojave Desert meets the Las Vegas Wash. The park’s unique combination of riparian corridors, wetlands, and upland desert habitats offers a haven for wildlife and a peaceful escape for visitors. With over 300 bird species and 70+ mammals and reptiles cataloged, the park is a prime destination for nature lovers, families, photographers, and outdoor adventurers (Travel Nevada).

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

Park: Open daily from sunrise to sunset (dawn to dusk).
Nature Center: Open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM. Closed Sundays and Mondays.

Admission and Tickets

Admission: Free for both the park and the Nature Center.
Special Programs: Some events and workshops may require advance registration or a nominal fee.

Location and Directions

Address: 7050 Wetlands Park Lane, Las Vegas, NV 89122
Directions: Accessible via Interstate 515 and Boulder Highway. Ample free parking is available at several trailheads.

Accessibility

ADA-compliant facilities and paved trails accommodate wheelchairs and strollers.
The Nature Center and many trails are fully accessible.

Pets

Allowed on designated trails; must be leashed at all times. Owners are responsible for cleanup.

Safety Tips

Bring water, sun protection, and wear sturdy shoes.
Stay on marked trails and respect wildlife.
Be aware of seasonal weather, fire risks, and posted safety notices (FOX5 Vegas).

History and Environmental Significance

Clark County Wetlands Park was created to protect and restore the Las Vegas Wash’s vital wetlands, once threatened by urbanization and erosion. The 1995 master plan guided restoration of over 160 acres of wetlands by stabilizing the Wash with erosion control structures (Clark County Wetlands Park). The park’s habitats now support a thriving wildlife community and provide critical ecosystem services—including water filtration, flood control, and carbon sequestration (Planeta.com).

Things to Do at Clark County Wetlands Park

Explore Scenic Trails

Over 14 miles of interconnected trails, including the paved Wetlands Loop and the Duck Creek Trail, cater to hikers, joggers, cyclists, and horseback riders (Las Vegas Travel Hub).
Boardwalks and observation decks provide wildlife viewing opportunities.

Visit the Nature Center

The 10,000-square-foot exhibit gallery features immersive dioramas, interactive displays, rotating art exhibits, and educational programs (Vegas4Locals).
Climate-controlled Lizard Lounge offers an indoor picnic space.

Guided Tours and Educational Programs

Regularly scheduled guided walks, birdwatching tours, and hands-on workshops.
Family programs like Nature Tales and Wetlands Explorers are designed for children (Clark County Wetlands Park Programs Brochure).
Check online for registration and schedule.

Photography and Birdwatching

Over 310 bird species, including golden eagles, hummingbirds, and waterfowl, make the park a birdwatching hotspot (Travel Nevada).
Wildlife blinds and shaded benches for quiet observation.
Binoculars available during guided programs.

Volunteer and Community Events

“Wetlands: Hands On!” volunteer program for habitat restoration, trash cleanup, and trail maintenance (Clark County Wetlands Park Programs Brochure).
Annual events like Discovery Day and World Wetlands Day bring together the community.

Nearby Attractions

Lake Mead National Recreation Area: Boating, fishing, and hiking just a short drive away.
Historic Boulder City: A charming historic town with shops and cultural attractions.
Downtown Las Vegas: Museums, galleries, and entertainment venues within 20 minutes.
Springs Preserve and Red Rock Canyon: Additional opportunities for outdoor exploration and learning.

Environmental and Operational Challenges

Wildfires

Recent years have seen an increase in wildfires, with two major fire events in 2025 alone, the latest burning over 100 acres (Rolling Out; Review Journal). These fires destroy habitat, disrupt recreation, and necessitate extensive recovery efforts.

Water Quality and Urban Runoff

The Las Vegas Wash delivers stormwater, treated effluent, and urban runoff, introducing pollutants that challenge water quality and habitat health (LV Wash). Erosion and flooding are ongoing concerns.

Infrastructure and Access Disruptions

Sewer upgrades and wildfire recovery have temporarily closed some facilities, such as the Nature Preserve Boardwalk and Duck Creek Trailhead. Always check the official website for current conditions.

Conservation and Restoration Initiatives

Restoration projects have replanted hundreds of acres with native vegetation and installed erosion control structures (LV Wash).
Wildlife monitoring and research guide habitat management and visitor education.
Community engagement through environmental education, volunteerism, and annual park events (Content.govdelivery).

Recreation and Well-being: The park provides green space for exercise, birdwatching, and relaxation. Programs like “Wetlands Walkers” encourage healthy lifestyles (Content.govdelivery).
Educational and Cultural Significance: Rooted in Indigenous heritage, the park serves as a powerful educational resource for local families and students (City Cast Las Vegas).
Economic and Social Challenges: Temporary closures impact community events, but the park remains a vital asset for environmental education and accessible recreation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the visiting hours?
The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. The Nature Center is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.

Is there an entrance fee?
No, admission is free.

Are pets allowed?
Yes, on leashes and on designated trails.

Is the park wheelchair accessible?
Yes, most trails and facilities are accessible, but some areas may be closed for maintenance or recovery.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, check the Wetlands Park Friends website for the current schedule.

Where can I find parking?
Free parking is available at the main entrance and trailheads.

How can I volunteer?
Join through the park’s volunteer program; details are available on the official website.

Plan Your Visit and Get Involved

Experience the natural and cultural richness of Clark County Wetlands Park. For current hours, event schedules, and trail updates, visit the official Clark County Wetlands Park website. Download the Audiala app for guided tours and updates, and follow the park’s social media for news and volunteer opportunities.

Explore additional Las Vegas historical sites and outdoor attractions to complement your visit and deepen your appreciation for this unique desert oasis.

Summary

Clark County Wetlands Park is a vital ecological sanctuary and treasured community resource within the Las Vegas Valley. Its wetlands and riparian zones foster rich biodiversity, support environmental education, and provide accessible recreation for all ages and abilities. Despite challenges from wildfires, urban runoff, and infrastructure projects, strong conservation and community stewardship ensure the park’s continued vitality.

Visitors are encouraged to participate in educational programs, stewardship activities, and to complement their experience with trips to nearby attractions such as Lake Mead, historic Boulder City, and downtown Las Vegas. For up-to-date information and program details, visit the official Clark County Wetlands Park website and Wetlands Park Friends. The Audiala app provides guided audio tours and real-time updates to enrich your visit.

Clark County Wetlands Park is an essential destination for anyone seeking to connect with nature, learn about desert ecosystems, and engage with the local community (Clark County Wetlands Park; Wetlands Park Friends; Travel Nevada).