Washoe Lake State Park

Washoe Lake State Park is a popular area for hiking, biking, camping, boating, water sports, picnicking, equestrian activities and enjoying beautiful views of the nearby Sierra Nevada, Carson and Virginia Mountain Ranges. The park provides 8,053 acres divided nearly equally between land and water for year-round recreational use. Washoe Lake State Park is 18 miles south of Reno and five miles north of Carson City.

Washoe Lake State Park was established in 1977 to preserve a portion of scenic Washoe Valley for future generations to enjoy, with land and water-based recreation for all. In the wake of the rapidly expanding urbanization of nearby Carson City and Reno, the park is a true treasure to be protected.

FACILITIES AND SERVICES

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

Camping: Camping is permitted only at the Main Area Campground, which has 49 sites, each with a table, grill and fire ring. The campground is open year around and available on a first-come, first-served basis. 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. There are no hookups available, but a dump station is available. The camping limit is seven days in a 30-day period.

Equestrian facilities: Equestrian areas are found at the Main Area and North Ramp. The Main Area facility includes restrooms and a covered barbecue area with tables, grill, 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, water and picnic tables.

Group-use: 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.

Boating: Boat launching ramps and docks can be found in the Main Day Use Area and at North Ramp. Boat trailer parking sites are provided. No direct boating access is available at Little Washoe and use by motorized craft is not recommended.

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.

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