About this place

Overview The Spring Mountains Visitor Gateway (SMVG) complex includes a visitor center, an education and research building, two amphitheaters, two picnic sites and over 40 miles of adjoining trails. The complex houses the Silent Heroes of the Cold War National Memorial - the only national monument dedicated to the Cold War era, honoring the thousands of individual who worked covertly for the United States government during the Cold War. SMVG is also home to the Seven Stones Plaza, which celebrates indigenous people - seven Southern Paiute tribes known collectively as Nuwuvi (or "the people") and their longstanding ancestral relationship with their creation place in the Spring Mountains. The SMVG is both a destination and a gateway to provide visitors with everything needed to appreciate and enjoy the Spring Mountains.Recreation The picnic areas are near a visitor center, two amphitheaters and 40 miles of trails. The Silent Heroes of the Cold War National Memorial is also on the same property. The picnic areas are a short drive from camping areas and scenic outlooks.Facilities This year-round picnic area contains two group picnic sites, which meet accessibility standards. Sites are equipped with picnic tables, campfire ring and grills. Flush toilets and drinking water are provided during peak season and may be unavailable during non-peak season. Roads and parking spurs are paved. The picnic areas are available for full day bookings during non-peak periods and half day bookings during peak periods. Natural Features The Spring Mountains National Recreation Area is a beautiful island in the desert, brimming with breathtaking scenery and diverse flora and fauna. The Bristlecone pine, the world's oldest organism, and the rare Mount Charleston blue butterfly are both found within the Spring Mountains. More than 100 springs create the namesake for the mountain range, making it an ideal place to escape the heat of the city.