Blue Tree Group Camp provides primitive camping options within 45 minutes of Las Vegas and 30 minutes from Indian Springs, Nevada. The area sits at approximately 6,000 feet elevation in the Spring Mountains, offering significantly cooler temperatures than surrounding desert valleys. For equestrian travelers, several dispersed camping areas in the region accommodate horses with adequate space for trailers, though formal horse campgrounds near Indian Springs, Nevada are limited.
What to do
Trail exploration from Sawmill Trailhead: From Blue Tree Group Camp, access the Sawmill Trailhead for hiking and equestrian routes. "If you walk a mile or so to the spring mountain trail they do have bathrooms so take note of that if you like to be close to a bathroom," notes Brittney C.
Recreational vehicle activities: The surrounding terrain supports various off-road adventures. "There are more people here than Champion Road, both campers and hikers, runners and bikers. Also a fair amount of 4 wheelers," shares Jamie H. about Blue Tree Group Camp.
Rock climbing expeditions: Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers numerous climbing routes. "Great camp sites with shade, fire pits, tables, water and bathrooms near by. Very popular spot in April and May, show up early so you don't end up with a walk up site," advises Patrick L.
What campers like
Temperature differential: The higher elevation provides relief from Las Vegas heat. "Clean bathrooms, 10-15 degrees cooler than Vegas. Some trash left around campsites, but nothing disqualifying," reports Abraham K. about Blue Tree Group Camp.
Accessible wilderness: Visitors appreciate the proximity to urban areas combined with natural settings. "Vegas is great, but it's not really my kind of town. I prefer getting out of the city and getting back to nature. Red Rocks is a great place to make that happen," shares John W. about Red Rock Canyon.
Level terrain for setup: "I got to the site on a Thursday and not many people there just a few sites taken. But a few days after I came more people started showing up. There are rock firepits all over. Camp sites are spaced out," notes Cathy H.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Standard passenger cars may struggle with access. "It was beautiful and easy to get to, just recommend something a lil bigger than a sedan, it can make it, just kind of sketchy," advises Rylee S. about Blue Tree Group Camp.
Seasonal fire restrictions: Fire policies vary throughout the year. "Keep in mind that fires may not be allowed if a No Fire mandate is being enforced. Fire pits in this campsite will have a little yellow flag in them as a reminder as well as a large sign at the entrance to the camp stating the same," explains Camron C.
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs between carriers and locations. "The cell reception for Verizon is nonexistent. But about 10 minutes down the road you can stop and have service," reports Cathy H.
Wildlife awareness: The desert environment hosts various native species. Equestrian campers should secure feed and be mindful of wild horses that occasionally roam near horse camping areas around Indian Springs.
Tips for camping with families
Timing considerations: Weekdays offer more solitude. "I got to the site on a Thursday and not many people there just a few sites taken. But a few days after I came more people started showing up," notes Cathy H. about Blue Tree Group Camp.
Insect preparation: Flying insects can be prevalent during warmer months. "Lots and lots of flies, keep that in mind, didn't get a single bite but heard buzzing around our heads and near our food most of the time," warns Rylee S.
Privacy concerns: Site spacing affects the camping experience. "A little less privacy just because the open sites are pretty close to one another, just across the roads from each other, but enough privacy to feel comfortable," advises Rylee S.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Patient observation rewards visitors with animal sightings. At Red Rock Canyon, "if you're patient enough and have a quick eye, you can spot wildlife. We were fortunate enough to see a Kit Fox running around," shares John W.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal arrival strategies: The more accessible sites fill quickly during peak periods. "Great spot for RVs and Campers, the front spots do fill up quickly so make sure if you have a big RV you get there before the weekend if you need a spot," advises Brittney C. about Blue Tree Group Camp.
Flatness assessment: Look for level areas to minimize setup time. "Lots of open areas with flat grounds for tents and plenty of greenage between other spots and if you have 4 wheel drive you can go pretty much anywhere and find a neat camp spot," explains Brittney C.
No hook-up preparation: Come fully self-contained with adequate water reserves. "The campground features no hookups, drinking water, or toilet facilities, requiring visitors to be self-sufficient," notes Camron C.
