Las Vegas and its surrounding areas offer some of the most diverse and visually stunning filming locations in the United States. From dramatic desert landscapes to historic ghost towns, here are our top 10 picks for filmmakers.
1. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Distance from Vegas: 17 miles west
Best For: Westerns, sci-fi, music videos, commercials
The stunning red sandstone formations of Red Rock Canyon provide an otherworldly backdrop that's been featured in countless productions. The 13-mile scenic drive offers diverse angles, and the Calico Hills area is particularly photogenic during golden hour. Permit required for commercial filming.
2. Valley of Fire State Park
Distance from Vegas: 50 miles northeast
Best For: Epic landscapes, period pieces, sci-fi
Nevada's oldest state park features 40,000 acres of brilliant red Aztec sandstone formations. The Fire Wave trail and White Domes area offer Mars-like terrain that's been used for everything from car commercials to feature films. The park appeared in "Total Recall" and "Transformers."
3. Nelson Ghost Town
Distance from Vegas: 45 miles south
Best For: Westerns, music videos, vintage aesthetics
This former mining town offers authentic Old West buildings, vintage cars, and mining equipment. The location is extremely film-friendly with minimal permit requirements. It's been featured in countless music videos and photo shoots.
4. Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Distance from Vegas: 24 miles east
Best For: Water scenes, desert/water contrasts, action sequences
The largest reservoir in the United States offers dramatic shorelines, hidden coves, and the striking contrast of blue water against desert terrain. The area around the Hoover Dam provides additional architectural interest.
5. Jean Dry Lake Bed
Distance from Vegas: 25 miles south
Best For: Car commercials, fashion shoots, Burning Man-style aesthetics
This massive dry lake bed offers miles of flat, cracked earth perfect for car commercials and fashion shoots. The isolation and 360-degree horizon line make it ideal for creating surreal imagery. Film crews love the accessibility from I-15.
6. Fremont Street Experience
Distance from Vegas: Downtown
Best For: Neon noir, urban scenes, vintage Vegas vibes
The original heart of Las Vegas, Fremont Street offers classic neon signage, the famous canopy, and a grittier alternative to the Strip. Best filmed during early morning hours when crowds are minimal.
7. Seven Magic Mountains
Distance from Vegas: 10 miles south
Best For: Art installations, music videos, fashion
Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone's colorful boulder towers have become an Instagram sensation and popular filming location. The vibrant neon-painted rocks against the desert backdrop create unique visual opportunities. Note: Permission required for commercial use.
8. Eldorado Canyon
Distance from Vegas: 45 miles south
Best For: Mining history, dramatic canyon walls, adventure content
This historic mining area offers rugged canyon terrain, abandoned mine shafts (exterior shots only), and Colorado River access. The Techatticup Mine provides guided tours and filming opportunities with proper arrangements.
9. Mount Charleston
Distance from Vegas: 35 miles northwest
Best For: Forest scenes, seasonal variety, mountain terrain
Just 45 minutes from the desert floor, Mount Charleston offers pine forests, seasonal snow, and temperatures 20-30 degrees cooler than Vegas. This location provides surprising versatility for productions needing non-desert environments.
10. The Neon Museum
Distance from Vegas: Downtown
Best For: Vintage Vegas, documentary, artistic content
Home to iconic signs from casinos past, the Neon Museum offers a visual journey through Las Vegas history. The boneyard of retired signs creates hauntingly beautiful imagery. Filming fees and restrictions apply.
Filming Tips for Las Vegas Area
- Weather: Summer temperatures exceed 110°F. Plan desert shoots for early morning or evening.
- Permits: Nevada Film Office offers streamlined permitting. Most federal lands require separate permits.
- Equipment: Dust and heat are camera killers. Rent weatherproofed gear and bring plenty of cleaning supplies.
- Crew Safety: Always bring excess water, sun protection, and first aid supplies for desert shoots.
At Klear Optics & Digital, we've supplied equipment to productions filming at all these locations. Contact us for gear recommendations specific to your shoot location.