Spring Valley State Park

As one of six Nevada State Parks within 70 miles of each other, southeastern Nevada’s Spring Valley State Park rounds out the recreational and historical diversity in the area with incredible fishing, hiking and some of the region’s earliest pioneer history.

EARLY DAYS IN SPRING VALLEY

Now a Nevada state park, this area was originally settled by Mormon pioneers in the 1860s. Some of their original homesteads lie within the park boundary, which offers an unfiltered glimpse of their exceptional workmanship while showing visitors what life in this area would’ve been like for some of the first people to rediscover it. A handful of ranching buildings from the 19th century still remain, including the Millet Ranch, which is currently being used as the park’s headquarters.

VISITING SPRING VALLEY TODAY

Archaeologists believe modern-day Spring Valley was occupied as long ago as 5,500 BCE, if you can believe it. The large rock outcrop near the center of the valley, known to many as George Washington Rock, may have also been used as a lookout for these early inhabitants.

While you’re in the area, you may notice a natural feature here that was valuable to early pioneers: the abundance of water. The agricultural industry continues to be a key driver in the local economy, and people living in the area and using this resource took it step further in 1965 when the Eagle Valley Dam was constructed. The dam served local agricultural purposes, but also helped put the region on the map—recreationally speaking—when Spring Valley State Park was dedicated in 1969.

Situated on the upper end of Meadow Valley Wash, this water system makes its way through nearby Echo Canyon State Park and further south through the Muddy River near Moapa, eventually depositing into Lake Mead. Although technically part of the Colorado River’s watershed, Spring Valley State Park and the surrounding area is an example of the Great Basin climate.

Open year-round, visitors can embrace exceptional boating, fishing, swimming, and water skiing on the 65-acre Eagle Valley Reservoir. In the winter months when the lake freezes over, ice fishing here is exceptional. While you’re in the area, be sure to take advantage of amazing hiking, picnicking, stargazing, and exploring historic pioneer sites in the surrounding rangeland. Aside from the Eagle Valley Reservoir, other spectacular features at Spring Valley are the striking rock formations that surround it. Volcanic tuff sediment give the entire area a beautiful, light-gray, pink and white backdrop. Here, campers and hikers share the canyons and valleys with soaring eagles, hawks and songbirds.

Spring Valley Camping

Spring Valley has a wealth of campsites. The lower loop has 23 sites with electric hookups, while the upper loop has 22 sites without utilities. Facilities include tables, grills, water, and primitive restrooms. Three group camping areas are available as well. Reservations for campsites can be made in advance but aren’t required.