About FOXTAIL GRP PICNIC AREA
Overview Foxtail Group Picnic Area is located in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, just 47 miles from downtown Las Vegas. Visitors enjoy hiking, mountain biking, scenic driving, and winter snowplay in this forested desert oasis.Recreation Hiking and mountain biking are popular activities on the 1.3-mile Sawmill Trail and the 6.2-mile Bristlecone Trail. Both begin just a short drive from Foxtail. When there is at least 12 inches of snow on the ground, Foxtail becomes a winter playground for sledding and tubing.Facilities This picnic area is a day-use site only. During the summer, seven group sites are available, each with picnic and serving tables, grills and campfire circles. The two largest have pavilions and fireplaces. Flush toilets and drinking water are provided. During the winter, fees are per vehicle for snowplay. There is a selfpay station. Firerings will be usable. Restrooms will be provided. 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 the perfect place to escape the heat of the city. The picnic area is set among a forest of towering ponderosa pine which provides limited shade. The area affords views of the surrounding Spring Mountains. Nearby Attractions More than 60 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the area; two trails allow mountain biking. Rock climbing, picnicking and scenic driving are popular activities.
How to Get There
From Las Vegas, Nevada, take Highway 95 north to the junction with Highway 156/Lee Canyon, turn left and travel approximately 19 miles to the picnic area, which is on the left.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to FOXTAIL GRP PICNIC AREA
Heading to FOXTAIL GRP PICNIC AREA? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for FOXTAIL GRP PICNIC AREA?
No central reservation system listed for FOXTAIL GRP PICNIC AREA. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232165) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to FOXTAIL GRP PICNIC AREA?
From Las Vegas, Nevada, take Highway 95 north to the junction with Highway 156/Lee Canyon, turn left and travel approximately 19 miles to the picnic area, which is on the left.
How do I contact FOXTAIL GRP PICNIC AREA?
You can reach the park at phone: 702-872-5486.
References & Official Resources
