The first national conservation area in the state of Nevada is located around these remarkable red rock formations that are 17 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. The 195,819-acre Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area was created in 1990 and contains a 13-mile scenic drive, 30-plus miles of hiking trails, a visitor center, a ghost town attraction and Spring Mountain Ranch State Park. Rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, picnicking and horseback riding are popular activities.