Spring Valley State Park is famous for being the best fishin’ hole within driving distance of Las Vegas. In fact, it’s so famous for fishing, most Southern Nevadans think it’s called Eagle Valley (the name of the park’s reservoir). Spring Valley’s reservoir has a thriving population of brown and rainbow trout, but there’s more to this park than a productive lake. Eagle Valley is fed by the Meadow Valley Wash, which has cut striking white rock formations that rise like fortress walls from green pastures. The Stone Cabin Trail is a great way to see the cliffs from all angles.
Just 20 miles outside Pioche, Spring Valley is close enough to Vegas for a day trip. For longer stays, Spring Valley offers a 37-site campground that’s practically lakeside. Sites are a little crowded, but well graded with plenty of shade. Bonus: There are two showers. Two miles upstream is the more secluded Ranch Campground. For more creature comforts, outside the park is the Eagle Valley Resort. They rent RV sites and have a handful of cozy cabins. Though calling it a “resort” may be a bit of a stretch, there is a bar, and the adjoining market has everything from bait to beer to make your getaway complete. ( parks.nv.gov)