It’s not all bright lights and nightlife in Nevada- for those who prefer to get away from the hustle and bustle, the Silver State offers a wide range of activities that will satisfy every outdoor enthusiast.
Whether you’re looking to explore the rugged desert landscapes of Valley of Fire State Park, stargaze in the clear skies of Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park, or cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe, Nevada has something for everyone.
There are endless outdoor activities to enjoy in Nevada, including hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and more. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Nevada’s state parks!
Printable Nevada State Parks Map
Beaver Dam State Park
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If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, Beaver Dam State Park in Nevada is definitely worth checking out. With over 2,000 acres of land along the Beaver Dam Wash, there’s plenty of space to explore and enjoy.
Whether you’re interested in picnicking, camping, or hiking, this park has something for everyone. There are beaver ponds and streams that are perfect for trout fishing, or if you’re up for a challenge, the Overlook Trail offers a breathtaking 360° view of the park.
Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park
If you’re looking for a state park that combines history, nature, and adventure, look no further than Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park in Nevada! This park is home to some of the best-preserved ichthyosaur fossils in the world, as well as the ghost town of Berlin, which was once a bustling mining community.
You can hike the nature trail, go camping, or enjoy a picnic with stunning views of the Shoshone mountain range. And if you’re interested in stargazing, you’ll be happy to know that the park has a Bortle scale class 1 sky, which means you can see the stars like never before.
Also, don’t miss the chance to take a guided tour of the fossil shelter or the Berlin Mine, where you can learn more about the park’s fascinating history.
Big Bend of the Colorado State Recreation Area
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If you’re looking for a state park in Nevada that offers a variety of outdoor activities, Big Bend of the Colorado State Recreation Area is a great choice. This 2,100-acre park is located on the west bank of the Colorado River, directly across from Bullhead City, Arizona.
With two miles of shoreline and riparian areas, there’s plenty of space for boating, fishing, and camping. If you’re more of a landlubber, you can hit the trails and hike for four miles through the park’s canyons and washes.
Also, if you’re just looking to relax and enjoy the scenery, there are plenty of picnic spots to choose from.
Cathedral Gorge State Park
Cathedral Gorge State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the unique geological wonders of Nevada. Located just a stone’s throw from the charming town of Panaca, this public recreation area boasts over 1,800 acres of breathtaking scenery that’s sure to take your breath away.
The park is famous for its narrow slot canyons, which were formed from soft bentonite clay millions of years ago. Visitors can explore these canyons by crawling through tunnels and discovering hidden chambers, making for an unforgettable adventure.
Also, with its cool temperatures, Cathedral Gorge State Park is the perfect place to escape the summer heat and reconnect with nature!
Cave Lake State Park
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Looking for a fun outdoor adventure? Look no further than Cave Lake State Park in Nevada! Nestled in the Schell Creek Range, this state park is home to over 4,000 acres of stunning natural beauty.
Whether you’re an avid fisherman or just love to relax by the water, you’ll love the 32-acre reservoir for fishing and flat-wake boating. Hiking enthusiasts will also enjoy the four developed trails, ranging from three to five miles in length.
Also, if you’re looking to spend the night, the park offers a yurt and two designated campgrounds with modern facilities. Don’t miss out on winter activities, including ice fishing, ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.
As well, be sure to check out Ely’s annual Fire and Ice Festival, held each January (weather permitting), which features an ice and snow sculpture contest and fireworks show.
Dayton State Park
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If you’re looking for a state park that offers a glimpse into Nevada’s rich mining history, then Dayton State Park should be on your list. This 152-acre park in the town of Dayton preserves the site of the Rock Point Stamp Mill, which was built back in 1861 to process silver ore mined from the Comstock Lode.
Today, visitors can explore the remains of the stamp mill and learn about the crucial role it played in Nevada’s mining industry. In addition to its historical significance, Dayton State Park also offers a peaceful retreat for camping, picnicking, and hiking.
Echo Canyon State Park
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If you’re looking for a peaceful and picturesque place to relax and enjoy nature, Echo Canyon State Park is definitely worth a visit.
Located just a short drive away from Pioche, this state park is home to the beautiful Echo Canyon Reservoir, which offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking.
With its varied elevation, the park is also a great spot for hiking and exploring the backcountry. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the winter months, you might even get to experience the magic of snowfall in this stunning landscape.
Elgin Schoolhouse State Historic Site
Elgin Schoolhouse State Historic Site is a charming little gem nestled in the ghost town of Elgin, Nevada. This state park property is home to a one-room schoolhouse that operated from 1922 to 1967.
The school was built by rancher James Bradshaw, who donated seven acres of land for its construction. His son Rueben Bradshaw built the schoolhouse, which was completed in 1922.
Today, the schoolhouse has been lovingly restored to its original appearance and features half of the school’s original furnishings and other items authentic to the time period.
The park is open for tours by appointment, so be sure to add Elgin Schoolhouse State Historic Site to your list of must-visit state parks in Nevada!
Fort Churchill State Historic Park
Fort Churchill State Historic Park is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and nature. This state park in Nevada is home to the remains of a United States Army fort and a waystation on the Pony Express and Central Overland Routes dating back to the 1860s.
The park is situated in Lyon County south of the town of Silver Springs, and it’s easily accessible from U.S. Route 95 Alternate. At the visitor center, you can explore exhibits that delve into the history of Fort Churchill and the Native Americans that inhabited the area.
Additionally, there are hiking trails that take you around the fort ruins, with interpretative signs explaining each of the buildings. If you’re a fan of camping, you’ll love the 20-site campground located along the Carson River within a grove of cottonwood trees.
You can also find a primitive camp further along the Carson River in the Carson River Ranches unit. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Nevada Civil War Volunteers putting on a civil war encampment at Fort Churchill.
Kershaw–Ryan State Park
Nestled in the gorgeous Rainbow Canyon, this park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages, whether you’re interested in camping, picnicking, or hiking!
The Canyon Overlook Trail is a must-see for hikers, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
If you’re short on time, the Rattlesnake Loop is a great option for a quick stroll. With 265 acres to explore, Kershaw–Ryan State Park is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Nevada.
Lahontan State Recreation Area
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If you’re looking for a place to enjoy the great outdoors in Nevada, the Lahontan State Recreation Area is definitely worth checking out. This beautiful public recreation area surrounds Lake Lahontan, which is a 17-mile-long impoundment of the Carson River.
With 69 miles of shoreline and over 11,000 acres of water when full, there’s plenty of space for boating, water skiing, and fishing. The park is dominated by high desert sagebrush, but you can also find wooded areas of native cottonwoods and willow trees along the lake’s shore.
There are two developed picnicking areas and a developed campground at Silver Springs Beach #7, but if you’re feeling adventurous, primitive camping is allowed in most other areas. There are also multiple trails to explore along the length of the reservoir, so you’ll never run out of things to do at Lahontan State Recreation Area!
Lake Tahoe – Nevada State Park
This park is a massive 14,301-acre playground located on the northeast shores of Lake Tahoe. With multiple management units and public recreation areas, there’s something for everyone here!
One of the park’s most unique features is the Marlette Lake Water System, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. Whether you want to hike, bike, swim, or just soak up the stunning views, Lake Tahoe State Park is a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Mormon Station State Historic Park
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If you’re looking for a slice of history in Nevada, look no further than Mormon Station State Historic Park in downtown Genoa. This park is a must-visit for anyone interested in the state’s past, as it was the site of the first permanent nonnative settlement in Nevada.
Originally settled by Mormon pioneers, the station served as a haven for travelers on the Carson Route of the California Trail. Today, the park features a replica of the 1851 trading post-stockade, which houses fascinating artifacts and exhibits about the station’s history.
Although the original trading post was destroyed by fire in 1910, the replica serves as a window into Nevada’s past and is a great place to spend an afternoon.
Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park
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This park is home to the Old Mormon Fort, which was the first structure built by European settlers in what would later become Las Vegas. Located just a stone’s throw away from the downtown area and Fremont Street, this park is the only state park in the US that’s located in a city and houses the first building ever constructed in that city.
The fort is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is memorialized with a tablet erected by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as well as several historical markers.
Rye Patch State Recreation Area
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Situated on the banks of Rye Patch Reservoir, this 2,400-acre state park boasts a wide range of recreational activities for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re looking to spend a quiet day fishing for crappie, wipers, white bass, channel catfish, black bass, and walleye or want to explore the park’s many hiking trails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Other amenities include a campground, picnic areas, and a launch for boating.
Accessible via State Route 401, Rye Patch State Recreation Area is just a short drive from Lovelock and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. So, pack your bags and head to Rye Patch State Recreation Area for a fun-filled day in the sun!
South Fork State Recreation Area
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If you’re looking for a great spot for fishing and outdoor recreation, South Fork State Recreation Area in Nevada is definitely worth checking out! With almost four thousand acres of land, this state park has something for everyone. The main attraction is the 1,650-acre South Fork Reservoir, which is known for its trophy-class trout and bass fishing.
But there’s more to explore beyond the water – the surrounding marsh, meadowlands, and hills offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring. And if you’re looking to camp out, there’s a 25-site campground available.
Don’t forget to bring your boat – there’s a boat ramp and parking area near the dam. For even more adventure, head to South Fork Canyon, which is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and offers hiking, floating, and fishing opportunities.
Spring Mountain Ranch State Park
This stunning park is home to the historic Sandstone Ranch, a district that has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1976.
Visitors to the park can explore the main ranch house, cabin and bunkhouse, blacksmith’s shop, barn and corral, two-hole outhouse, chinchilla shed, and the Wilson family cemetery. The park also boasts several scenic trails, including the Ash Grove Trail and Overlook Interpretive Trails, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
And, if you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy a picnic, Spring Mountain Ranch State Park has a lovely picnic area. During the summer months, visitors can also enjoy a theater program presented by a local non-profit theater organization.
Spring Valley State Park
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If you’re looking for a serene and picturesque getaway in eastern Nevada, Spring Valley State Park should be at the top of your list. This public recreation area offers a range of activities and amenities to keep visitors of all ages entertained.
The historic ranch buildings and group-use area add an interesting touch to the park’s rustic charm. And of course, the stunning Eagle Valley Reservoir is the centerpiece of the park, providing a perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
Valley of Fire State Park
Valley of Fire State Park is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Nevada. This stunning public recreation area spans nearly 46,000 acres and is located just 16 miles south of Overton.
The park is named after its striking red sandstone formations, which were formed over 150 million years ago from shifting sand dunes. These formations are the star attraction of the park and often appear to be on fire when reflecting the sun’s rays.
As Nevada’s oldest state park, it has been designated as a National Natural Landmark and is commemorated with Nevada Historical Marker #150.
Van Sickle Bi-State Park
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Van Sickle Bi-State Park is a breathtaking public recreation area located in both California and Nevada. It offers stunning views of Lake Tahoe and is a great place to enjoy the outdoors.
The park is named after Henry Van Sickle, who played a crucial role in the founding of Genoa and the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding on the park’s many trails.
The park is managed by the Nevada Division of State Parks in partnership with the California Tahoe Conservancy, ensuring that it remains a beautiful and well-maintained destination.
Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
If you’re looking for a unique piece of Nevada history, Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park is a must-visit destination. Tucked away just 20 miles south of Ely, this 700-acre park is home to some incredible beehive-shaped charcoal ovens that were constructed back in the 1800s.
These ovens were used to produce charcoal for the nearby silver mines and are some of the best-preserved examples of this kind of structure in the country. The park was once privately owned, but in 1956, the Nevada State Park Commission was offered a permit to protect the ovens.
Today, you can explore the ovens and learn about the area’s fascinating history. There are also plenty of recreational facilities on-site, making it a great spot for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Washoe Lake State Park
Located just five miles north of Carson City, this 3,775-acre park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages.
With its high winds, Washoe Lake is a popular spot for windsurfing, but the park also offers picnicking facilities, boat launches, a campground, an equestrian area, and several miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, and ATV riding.
There’s even a large group pavilion with a beach volleyball pit and horseshoe pit nearby, perfect for a family or group outing. And if you’re a hunting enthusiast, the park is open to hunting during designated seasons.
Plus, since 2004, the Nevada Division of Wildlife has been stocking the lake with fish, making it a great spot for fishing too!
Wild Horse State Recreation Area
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Situated on the northeast shore of the Wild Horse Reservoir, this 120-acre park is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you’re an expert angler or a newbie, you’ll love the fishing opportunities on offer, especially ice fishing during the winter months.
However, fishing isn’t the only attraction here. With camping, picnicking, boating, ice skating, sledding, snowmobiling, and skiing options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
