Kershaw–Ryan State Park

Tucked into a narrow canyon just south of Caliente in Lincoln County, Kershaw–Ryan State Park feels like a desert secret. Natural springs feed lush vegetation — cottonwoods, willows, and grape vines — creating an unexpected oasis against dramatic volcanic rock walls. At 1,696 acres, the park occupies Kershaw Canyon, originally homesteaded by the Kershaw and Ryan families in the early 1900s before becoming one of Nevada’s first state parks.

The spring-fed wading pool is the park’s centerpiece, a welcome cool-down spot during hot desert days. Several hiking trails wind through the canyon, including the Canyon Overlook Trail, which climbs to panoramic views of the surrounding Great Basin landscape. The Rattlesnake Canyon Trail offers a more rugged option through side canyons with layered rock formations. Picnic areas with shade structures sit along the canyon floor — genuinely pleasant spots, not afterthoughts.

The small campground offers a handful of sites with tables and fire rings, though amenities are basic. It rarely fills up, making it a reliable option for travelers passing through on US-93 between Las Vegas and Ely.

Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit, when daytime temperatures hover in the 60s and 70s. Summers push well past 100°F, though the canyon shade and springs take some of the edge off. Winters are mild compared to northern Nevada.

Come for a half-day stop or an overnight camp — either way, Kershaw–Ryan rewards the detour.

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