Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Spring Mountain Ranch

After visiting Mt. Charleston in the Sunday morning on April 28, 2013, I decided to drive to the Spring Mountain Ranch, a State Park of Nevada, USA. It is located in the Cottonwood Valley, 15 miles (25 km) west of Las Vegas. From Mt. Charleston, it was about one-hour driving (47 miles/76 km).

The historic Sand Stone Ranch was established in 1876. It was listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places on April 3, 1976. A preceding campsite was set up in the mid-1830's, on the alternate route of the Old Spanish Trail that connected the northern settlements near Santa Fe, New Mexico with those in the Southern California. The spring-fed creek and grassy meadows on site formed an oasis for travelers using pack and wagon trains.

The temperature is usually 10-15°F(6-8°C) cooler at the Ranch (3,800 feet/1,158 m) than in Las Vegas (2,181 feet/665 m). Therefore, it is a nice place for retreat with its Super Summer Theater and Living History Program.

The main ranch house serves as the visitor information center. It was staffed with Park volunteers. You can buy postcards and other  souvenirs there. The park admission is US$7 per vehicle.

The postcard, sent as US-2206077 to USA on April 30, 2013, shows the ranch house living room.

Address:

Spring Mountain Ranch State Park
6375 Hwy 159,  Blue Diamond, NV 89004
(702) 875-4141