Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Surrounded by colorful cliffs and jaw-dropping scenery, Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is fun for the whole family. Explore some of the oldest buildings in Nevada, hike throughout the park, or simply make a day trip to picnic under tree-lined tables. And with Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area right next door, you’ll have even more opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Early Days in the Spring Mountains

The Spring Mountains attracted early explorers and pioneers in the 1830s, with natural cold springs offering a rare respite from the Mojave Desert. This lush oasis offered shelter to exhausted pioneers following the Spanish Trail. It was the perfect place to rest and stock up on essential supplies before continuing the dangerous journey west.

Around this time, Spring Mountain Ranch was known as “Bill Williams Ranch” or the “Old Williams Ranch” after trapper, explorer, and mountain man Bill Williams allegedly grazed stolen horses on the land. In 1876, a pair of investors—James Wilson and George Anderson—took over the property after selling their working cattle ranch. With deep pockets and serious ambition, the duo worked hard to maintain and improve the land. When they acquired the property, a blacksmith shop and small cabin were the only structures on site. Today, these are among the oldest buildings in Nevada.

In 1929, a Hollywood fur coat manufacturer named Williard George purchased the land with the intention of turning it into a chinchilla ranch. His grand idea eventually failed, and the ranch was acquired by radio-turned-movie star Chester “Chet” Lauck in 1948.

After moving in, Lauck got to work building a permanent residence. His sandstone home now serves as the Spring Mountain Ranch park office and visitor center. 

By the 1950s, Spring Mountain Ranch commanded the attention of Hollywood stars thanks to its alluring remoteness and beauty. German movie star Vera Krupp purchased the property in 1955, and it was she who bestowed the Spring Mountain Ranch name on the land. Krupp immensely enjoyed her Nevada ranch and spent her days rockhounding, hosting parties, ranching, and living life to the fullest in the Spring Mountains. Unfortunately, she was forced to sell the property due to poor health.

In 1967, Howard Hughes purchased the property in hopes that his estranged wife, Jean Peters, would move to Las Vegas. Unfortunately, Peters had no interest in relocating. After more owners and various development plans, Spring Mountain Ranch officially became a state park in 1973 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

Visiting Spring Mountain Ranch State Park Today

Skip the crowds at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and head for Spring Mountain Ranch State Park. It offers many of the same vistas and activities without the hustle and bustle. 

Spring Mountain Ranch has a literal wealth of natural resources. It owns all the water rights to its six babbling springs, a value greater than all 520 acres of land and all the buildings put together. That’s why this state park has one of the finest manicured lawns in the Mojave Desert.

In addition to its relaxing shaded areas and stunning vistas, the park offers a large amphitheater-style area that can accommodate up to 200 people. You’ll also find plenty of picnic areas, parkside hiking loops, and plenty of barbecue grills and tables. Be sure to visit the historic Main Ranch House to learn more about previous owners of the ranch, and don’t miss the living history programs, summer theater, and special events like “Yoga on the Lawn” and “Paint with a Ranger,” offered throughout the year.