This is the first of a series of off Las Vegas Boulevard (The Strip) activities inspired by Jeff Belonger's Philly Blogs.
Many people don't even realize that beyond the strip lies vast culture, history and beauty in the city and desert that surrounds the Las Vegas Strip (Gambling District). They never make it beyond the glitzy lights, gaming, restaurants, shopping, nightclubs and shows that are on the strip.
Las Vegas is surrounded by areas that make the perfect home to the outdoor enthusiast. Love camping, hiking (maps), climbing, rafting, boating, fishing and skiing/snowboarding? Yes, snow sports too! Believe it or not they exist within a "stone's throw" of this amazing city!
Before you go off and explore in the desert you must be properly equipped: Check weather forecast so you can dress appropriately for warm or cool weather, bring lots of water, wear proper shoes if hiking or climbing and be cautious. It is easy to get lost in the desert or fall off of rocks if you perform an activity that you are not accustomed to.
Lake Mead Recreation Area: This is a reservoir created by Hoover Dam on the Colorado River. There is so much 
to do here: camping, hiking, climbing, boating, jet ski, fishing, etc! Travel time (1-2 hours) depends on which area of Lake Mead you would like to reach.
- There are 5 campgrounds and fees are $10 per site - more camping information here.
- There are 4 marinas. Bring your own boat, take a cruise on a riverboat, rent a fishing boat, pontoon or houseboat! Advance reservations area advised.
Lake mead also offers: backcountry, biking, canoe and kayaking, fishing, hiking, picnicking, scenic driving, scuba diving & swimming. Click here for more information! Click here for current fees and park information.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: This is a favorite among locals for biking and hiking. 
It is perhaps the best kept Las Vegas secret and is located a short drive up Charleston Blvd. I would say a 30-45 minute drive under normal traffic conditions.
This 197,000 acre area provides a 13-mile scenic drive, more than 30 miles of hiking trails & picnic areas.
Pets are allowed but they must be leashed and are not allowed in buildings.
Red Rock Canyon is a National Park so you will be subject to national park fees and regulations.
Mt Charleston/Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Resort/Toiyabe National Forest: This is a perfect retreat from summer heat for campers and hikers. Average temperatures are about 20-30 degrees below Las Vegas temperatures.
Want to ski or enjoy snow sports? Kyle Canyon/Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort is where it is at!
This is only about an hour's drive from the strip. I was so amazed at the rocky mountain-like beauty of the Toiyabe National Forest when I first discovered this area several years after I moved here. Whenever I need a "snow fix" this is where I go in the winter. There is some great sledding when the powder is fresh. Less than an hour away yet I don't have to deal with shoveling and driving in the stuff in the Las Vegas valley!
If you do venture up to Mt Charleston/Kyle Canyon in the winter be prepared because if winter driving conditions are present you will be required to either have a 4 WD or chains on your tires.
Mt Charleston Lodge is a great quick getaway for a MAJOR change of scenery for Las Vegas locals. Mt Charleston Lodge features dining and a Saturday/Sunday craft show from spring to fall.
Valley of Fire: The Valley of Fire is situated just north of Lake Mead Recreation Area and South of Zion National Park. This is a very beautiful park and scenic drive. It is rich in ancient history with petrified wood and Indian petroglyphs. The Valley of Fire offers camping, hiking, historic sites and a scenic drive. The camping sites are first come, first served so our family has never been able to beat the rush and get a site. Lake Mead camping is right around the corner at Willow Beach.
We hope to go to NAR's annual convention next year and we'll have to take advantage of some of the other great things to do out there.
Thanks Jay
Ken: Isn't it amazing? There is so much to do here that you don't even have to set foot NEAR the strip. SO much to do, so little time and money to do it! This blog can be an ongoing thing for a year! More to come....
Jay: For you and those that are coming here for NAR convention we may have to set up an "AR Night"
Renee, sounds like a great idea.
Thanks Jay
Hi Renee,
I have rental property on the Arizona side about 8 miles from Lake Mead. Is the lake coming up any?
Renne,
Thanks for the post. My wife and I use our Las Vegas timeshare for getaways. We have been in Las Vegas for a week without gambling, simply enjoying all the city and the surrounding area has to offer outside of the casinos. Somehow, that's not the case when we visit Atlantic City, here in New Jersey!
Renee....some pretty scenery. And you are so correct.... the strip and golf....don't forget golf. ;o)
In regards to NAR... I am not a realtor, but I will be making that trip. For 3 to 4 reasons.... go to Vegas... gamble some.... see Brian Brady again, after we meet in 2 months.... meet many of you from AR..... and to golf. And I am not even a realtor. ;o)