Henderson city in Clark County is the second-largest city after Las Vegas in Nevada. One of the most extraordinary things about living in Henderson is that national parks are just a short drive away. Some of the parks are even just a short walk away! The city is just a few minutes from the famous Las Vegas city and is known for its casinos, entertainment, museums, and outdoor activities. Beyond the casinos and hotels, Henderson in Nevada State is home to stunning parks and excellent amenities. Below are the few listed national parks near Henderson to enjoy.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

Lake Mead is an artificial lake approximately 24 miles from Las Vegas on the Colorado River. It is the largest water basin in the USA. The Recreation Area is one of the many national parks in Nevada, with a depth of approximately 550 feet and 112 miles long. The lake is formed by the Hoover Dam, which has a surface of roughly 247 square miles and 28 million acre-feet when filled. In addition to the vast lakes, there are acres of valleys, mountains, and canyons at Lake Mead national park. Lake Mohave and Lake Mead are the two vast lakes in the park that provide for many outdoor adventures such as fishing, boating, and swimming. Sunfish, crappie, catfish, smallmouth, and rainbow trout are a few fish species in the park. Additionally, many hiking trails within the park are best to explore from November to March, when temperatures are more relaxed. Examples of these trails are;

• Rivers Mountain Loop
• Lake View
• Historic Railroad Trail
• Redstone

Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve.

In Southern Nevada, Henderson Bird Preserve is the third largest water body that homes over 270 gorgeous bird species. These species include birds from residents and those flown in from all over the world. Henderson is known to be the best place for bird watching, and as a result, it has attracted tourists from all over the globe. Among the tourists drawn to Henderson Bird Preserve are wildlife photographers, birders, and nature lovers who come to witness native and migratory birds. Nine ponds spread throughout the nature preserve filled with hundreds of bird species. There exists a paved path stretching about a mile through the ponds and beyond, thus making it easier to walk and explore the park. The Henderson preserve operates with changing seasonal hours throughout the year. 

Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area.

Sloan Canyon is geographically located on Las Vegas Valley edge, bordering Henderson at the south rim. The scenery is stunning with the ridges, petroglyphs, and black volcanic mountains that can be sighted from most parts of towns. Hiking is one of the most adventurous outdoor activities in this National park, especially during winter with full skies and delightful weather. Sloan Canyon National Park, approximately 48,438 acres, grants silence and peace to hikers exploring the cultural and geological features. The landscape ranges from the highest mountain peaks (5,000 feet above sea level) to the lowland dry lake. The Petroglyph Canyon (in Sloan Canyon Archaeological District) is one of the best-known historic Native American sites in Southern Nevada. In addition to hiking, the park also offers camping opportunities. Camping is only allowed in the Southeastern part of the park and the North McCullough Wilderness Area. Camping is not permitted in any areas inside the Las Vegas Valley.

Whitney Mesa Nature Preserve.

Whitney Mesa Preserve in Henderson, Nevada State, consists of a six-acre of fun close to the Clark County School District (Whitney Mesa Outdoor Science Laboratory). The preserve is a natural oasis with plenty of space to explore, thus providing the best spot for those nature lovers. Whitney Mesa Nature Park is home to several hiking trails, including the one-mile track, which offers spectacular views of Henderson below. The spot is perfect for watching sunrise and sunset. In addition, the preserve is also home to varied flora and fauna, a stream, and rare geological structures. The Nature Preserve includes the following amenities;

• Picnic tables
• Barbecues
• Restrooms
• Educational kiosks
• Picnic shelters

Lion Habitat Ranch.

Lion Habitat Ranch, located on 382 Bruner Avenue in Henderson, Nevada State, has been open since 1989. The ranch aims to provide a safe home to protect the lions for the rest of their natural lives. Lion Habitat supports the Conservational International in Kenya (the campaign against canned hunting) alongside advocating for education about African lions. Aside from general admissions and different tours funding the ranch, it also accepts donations to help run and cater needs of the facility. The Lion Habitat offers plenty of unforgettable experiences, where you book your spot on “Feast with the Beasts.”This is a private party where you can share a glass-enclosed table with your crew while surrounded by lions, and the staff prepares a meal or picnic for you. Another memorable experience at the habitat is behind the “Scenes Tour,” where you tour the ranch and see the staff cleaning, watering, and feeding the lions. You can also book a spot on the “Feed the Animals” experience, where you get to feed the animals at the Lion Habitat Ranch. 

Cornerstone Park.

Located at 1600 Wigwam Pkwy Henderson, Nevada State, Cornerstone Park is one of the most attractive places in Henderson. It is the perfect spot to get away from the busy city life. The backdrop of the park consists of spectacular mountains and scenic lake views. Additionally, you can have a picnic at the park, go for a run around the artificial lake or take photos of the fantastic wildlife. Swimming is not permitted on the lake. The following are the park amenities;

• Warming kitchen
• Large pavilions
• 31-acre lake
• Corporate plaza area
• Restrooms
• Picnic tables
• Basketball and volleyball courts
• Picnic areas
• Walking trails
• Exercise stairs
• Open grass area

Conclusion.

Henderson city is known for producing titanium and heavy chemicals for defense and commercial needs; thus, it is the chief industrial Centre in Nevada. Besides being an industrial Centre, Henderson also has plenty of national parks and reserves that offer recreational activities and much more. Within the city’s outskirts, you can tour in the middle of the desert, travel through the wetlands, hike on the incredible nature trails, and experience the most scenic views. These parks are undoubtedly the most unique and appealing to everyone, thus a must-to-do road trip.