Red Desert
Red Desert in Nevada is a remote basin of rust-colored sands, expansive clay flats and dramatic washouts — a destination for off-road driving and wilderness camping.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Western United States |
| Subregion | Great Basin |
| Country | United States |
| State | Nevada |
| County | Nye County |
| Timezone | AmericaLos Angeles |
| Latitude | 37.2 |
| Longitude | -116.7 |
| Maps |
8:34 PM LOCAL TIMEThe Red Desert is a sprawling desert basin in southeastern Nevada, characterized by rust-red sands, wide intermontane flats and ephemeral dry washes. Its remote, unpopulated character makes it a draw for high-clearance 4x4 routes, backcountry camping and geological exploration. The landscape is shaped by aeolian processes and intermittent sedimentation, with features like Sand Mountain and the Great Basin boundary providing visual and geomorphic variety. Access revolves around a network of graded and unimproved roads, with no formal facilities — visitors should prepare for remote navigation, variable weather and self-sufficient camping. Nearby regionally significant features include Baker and Stewart Passes to the north and the Snake Valley area to the east.
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