Washoe State Park, New Washoe City, Nevada

      This is our first visit to Washoe State Park.  We chose this location because our daughter Halley lives 15 minutes away, but discovered that the park is wonderful on its own.  The park has a beautiful lake, wild horses, quale, and spectacular views in every direction.

From their website

Washoe State Park's website link

      Nestled in a scenic valley where bald eagles soar, Washoe Lake State Park offers breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada, Carson, and Virginia mountain ranges. A popular area for hiking, camping, picnicking, water sports, and equestrian activities, the park also hosts a diverse range of birds and waterfowl, such as American white pelicans and Canada geese. Anglers can aim for channel and bullhead catfish, wipers, white bass, and Sacramento Perch. Situated between Reno and Carson City, the park is a true treasure for local residents and visitors to enjoy year-round.

Amenities

Camping: The park has 49 sites, each with a table, grill and fire ring. The campground is open year round and available by reservation. Some sites are equipped with shade structures. Two comfort stations, one with a shower, are available. Several sites can hold RVs up to 45 feet in length. Campground Loop A offers water and utility hook-ups at all 24 sites, and a dump station is available. The camping limit is seven days in a 30-day period.

Group Area: The Group Area near the main day use area and boat launch can be reserved for both day and overnight use. Facilities include a covered pavilion, restrooms, 20 picnic tables, barbecue grills, power, lighting, sink, counters, a sandy volleyball court and horseshoe pits.

Picnicking/Day Use: Day use areas are located at the Wetlands, South Beach, Main Entrance, North Ramp and Little Washoe. All areas have comfort stations and developed picnic sites. The main access location is the largest day use area, with lawns, sandy beach areas and shade trees.

Boating: Boat launching ramps can be found in the main day use area, North Ramp and at Little Washoe. Boat trailer parking sites are provided.

Equestrian Facilities: Equestrian areas are found at the Main Entrance Area and North Ramp. The main area facility includes an arena, corrals, a horse washing station, and a covered barbecue area with tables, a grill, a sink, counter space, power, water, and lighting. Camping is permitted for both tents and RVs with large parking areas for easy horse trailer access. This area can be reserved for groups of up to 200. The North Ramp facility is day use only and provides restrooms, parking, and picnic tables.

Hunting:  Hunting with a shotgun only is permitted in specified areas during the hunting season, October through February. View the Hunting Zone Map.

Fishing:  Both lakes contain channel and bullhead catfish, wipers, white bass, and Sacramento Perch. Little Washoe, South Beach, and North Ramp provide excellent shore fishing opportunities. See a Health Warning from the Department of Wildlife on consumption of fish.

Hiking:  Trails are available throughout the park for motorized and non-motorized uses. Non-motorized trails accommodate hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrian riders. Motorized trails are limited to the Virginia Range, east of the park. Maps are available at the park office and information kiosks throughout the park.

Programs:  Information about program scheduling may be obtained from either park staff or kiosks. Upon request, special presentations can be arranged for groups.

American Discovery Trail:  The American Discovery Trail is a great way to experience Nevada's beautiful and rugged backcountry. The Nevada portion of this 6,800+ mile trail covers 500 miles of Nevada's remarkable landscape, traversing 14 mountain ranges and challenging its explorers to a total climb of 34,000 feet! Six of Nevada's State Parks can be accessed by way of this route, including Washoe Lake State Park. Stay with Nevada State Parks while exploring the American Discovery Trail!

Wifi Access: Wifi is currently available at the park. View wifi pricing plans.

Hours: Open seven days a week, 365 days a year.