The 1,576,000 sq ft (146,400 m2) complex lies approximately 25 miles (40 km) northwest of Las Vegas along highway 95.

All of the facility is located at a 160-acre (65 ha) site which is kept secure by a lethal electrified fence and seven armed towers, as well as a roving perimeter patrol officer.

The facility presented many design challenges, such as electrical backup and water supply, and there have been difficulties in staff retention due to the remote location.

The first expansion, completed in 2004, added a 60,000 sq ft (5,600 m2) prison industries building and a gymnasium.

High Desert is one of the largest prisons in the United States, and is a medium security facility.