Spring Mountain Ranch Combines History and Nature
The Las Vegas Strip offers a myriad of exciting things to do. But meanwhile, back at the ranch – Spring Mountain Ranch – there is a quieter kind of fun, one that involves history, theater, and the beauty of nature. Here “wild” life is limited to ground squirrels, jackrabbits, cottontail rabbits, mule deer, bighorn sheep and other species.
Located within the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, the 520-acre Spring Mountain Ranch is nestled at the base of the colorful cliffs of the Wilson Range. Via a long string of colorful owners, including Chester Lauck, the “Lum” of the “Lum & Abner” radio show, German actress Vera Krupp, and eclectic millionaire Howard Hughes, the property was developed into a combination working ranch and luxury retreat.
It was in the mid-1830’s that the first campsite was established along the creek that runs through the ranch. The site became an oasis for travelers who used this alternate Spanish Trail site through Cottonwood Valley. It was also used extensively by outlaws involved in Indian slave trading, horse stealing, and raids upon passing caravans. Spring Mountain Ranch was first known as the Bill Williams Ranch after the mountaineer that stayed there in 1840. Over the years, the ranch was used to raise cattle, as a boy's camp, and to raise chinchillas by a prominent Hollywood furrier.
Krupp, who purchased the ranch from Lauck in 1955, was the longest-residing owner. She expanded the ranch's business by raising Hereford and Brahma cows. She also renamed the property Spring Mountain Ranch, expanding the west wing of the main house and adding the pool. It was her principal home until 1967 when she sold it to Hughes.
In 1974, the property became Spring Mountain Ranch State Park after another owner sold it to the Nevada Division of State Parks. Today, historical sites at the park include the main ranch house, Wilson cemetery, sandstone cabin, blacksmith's shop, hay and horse barn/corral, two-hole outhouse, and chinchilla shed.
Living history programs at the park give visitors an opportunity to view life at the ranch as it might have been. These programs include costumed role playing, demonstrations and re-enactments of historic events. Every Spring and Fall, a series of living history programs depicting the lives of early settlers.
- by Bobbie Katz, Las Vegas Reporter for HelloMetro
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