Grimes Point/Hidden Cave Archaeological Site (Carson City)
Grimes Point was first visited by Native Americans at least 8, 000 years ago, and visitors can view examples of prehistoric rock art, called petroglyphs, as well as a storage cave. In addition to the self-guided interpretive trails at Grimes Point, there is a guided educational program to Hidden Cave for those interested in learning more about Great Basin prehistory.
Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is located in southern Nevada 90 miles northwest of Las Vegas. Encompassing over 23, 000 acres of spring-fed wetlands, Ash Meadows is a desert wetland ecosystem providing habitat for at least 25 species found nowhere else in the world. Thirteen species are endangered or threatened and most depend on the isolated springs and wetlands found here. This concentration of native species is considered to be the greatest of any local area in the United States.
Rye Patch Reservoir (Lovelock)
Rye Patch Dam and Reservoir are on the Humboldt River about 26 miles upstream from Lovelock, Nevada. The Dam, constructed in 1935-36 and enlarged in 1976, is 78 feet high with a crest length of 1, 074 feet. The dam is a major feature of the Humboldt Project. Surface area of approximately 12, 000 acres at full reservoir storage. Fishing season is year-round.
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forests (Elko)
Located in both Nevada and California, lies the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forests. It is the largest National Forest outside of Alaska, having a net acreage of approximately 3.9 million acres. It often comes as a surprise when sagebrush-dominated rangelands give way to alpine meadows and sparkling streams. You can travel through many life zones while exploring the forest.
Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge (Fallon)
The Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge Complex consists of Stillwater Refuge, Fallon Refuge, and Anaho Island Refuge in western Nevada. Together, these refuges encompass approximately 163, 000 acres of wetland and upland habitats, freshwater and brackish water marshes, cottonwood and willow riparian areas, alkali playas, salt desert shrub lands, sand dunes, and a 500-acre rocky island in a desert lake. Nearly 400 wildlife species*including more than 260 bird species rely on these habitats.
Marietta Wild Burro Range (Carson City)
Marietta is the nation's first formally recognized Wild Burro Range. The 68, 000-acre site is home to about 85 burros. During the late 1800's, miners used burros as pack animals while prospecting for gold and silver in the Marietta Mining District. Some of these animals escaped or were released into the desert area surrounding Teels Marsh. The descendants of those burros now roam freely near the ruins of the historic Nevada mining town of Marietta, and through the marshlands.
Ryholite Historic Area (Tonopah)
Historic ruins at this former gold-mining boomtown include the most photo-graphed ghost-town building in the West the Cook Bank Building-and Nevada's best-preserved "bottle house, " constructed entirely of glass bottles. Death Valley Monument visitors frequently tour Rhyolite because it is along one of the major roads to that park.
Zunino/Jiggs Reservoir Recreation Management Area (Elko)
Immediately east of the splendid Ruby Mountains, along the Hastings Cutoff of the California National Historic Trail, this reservoir remains accessible during winter months due to its close proximity to paved state Hwy. 228. However, the resvoir is fry during drought years. The area is a popular access point for the Humboldt National Forest and the RubyLakes National Wildlife Refuge. Primitive camping, hiking and photographic opportunities are endless.
South Fork Owyhee River Recreation Management Area (Elko)
The South Fork Owyhee River flows north through the Owyhee desert, joining the river's East Fork in southwestern Idaho. River-running in rafts and kayaks through the steep-walled canyon is the most popular recreational activity from late March through early June.
Pine Forest Recreation Management Area (Winnemucca)
There are three popular recreation sites within the Pine Forest Recreation Area: the Blue Lakes, Onion Reservoir and Knott Creek Reservoir. All three have superb scenery. The Blue Lakes are glacial in origin. Excellent opportunities for fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, primitive camping, mountain biking, and photography exist at every turn.
Walker Lake Recreation Management Area (Carson City)
One of only two large natural lakes in Nevada, Walker Lake provides habitat for endangered Lahontan cutthroat trout. The 38, 000-acre lake has a shoreline that varies from steep and rocky on the west side to sandy beaches on its east side. Regal Mt. Grant towers above the lake. Walker Lake is an oasis for migratory birds including the common loon. Snow geese, white pelicans, and several species of grebe are sometimes joined by brants, harlequin ducks, and oldsquaws.
Lake Tahoe Eastshore Drive (Stateline at Lake Tahoe)
The nearly 46 km (25 miles) of Eastshore Drive skirt the edges of Lake Tahoe, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the Lake Tahoe Basin, while the visitor`s center offers accounts of the pioneer and Indian history of the area.
Pyramid Lake Scenic Byway (Nixon)
As the only byway in the nation entirely within a tribal reservation, this route takes the visitor around one of the largest desert lakes in the world and provides a unique opportunity to interact with the Paiute tribe.
Mill Creek Recreation Area (Battle Mtn)
Mill Creek was the site of a 1930's Civilian Conservation Corps work camp. Historic pillars of stone are still visible at the campground entrance.
Blue Mass Scenic Area (Ely)
Elevation 7, 000 ft. Scenic wonderland of streams and springs, old cabins, granite cliffs and pinnacles and lush vegetation.
Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area (Ely)
17 camp sites. Elevation 6, 840 ft. Reservoir provides boating, fishing.
Sand Mountain Recreation Area (Carson City)
4, 795-acre recreation area. Sand Mountain is two miles long, 600 ft high. Primary use is off road vehicle riding. There is also the historic Sand Springs Pony Express Station and Desert Study Area to visit.
Comstock National Historic District (Carson City)
Exploring the area surrounding the wild west mining towns of Virginia City and Dayton is a great adventure for mountain bikers or OHV enthusiasts.
Salmon Falls Creek Recreation Area (Elko)
Class I and II floatable river. Primitive camping along Salmon Falls Creek.
Goshute Canyon and Goshute Cave (Elko)
Explore underground wonders in Goshute Cave and hike to bristlecone pine forests and limestone formations.
Baker Archaeological Viewing Site (Elko)
Visitors can view 1000 year-old Snake Valley archaeological site.
Water Canyon (Winnemucca)
A secluded canyon great for outdoor activities. Beautiful riparian area.
Highland Range Crucial Bighorn Habitat (Las Vegas)
The area was set aside for the protection and propagation of desert bighorn sheep. No public access. US 95 runs along the eastern flank of the area.
Ash Springs Wildlife Area (Ely)
One of the few remaining desert oases in the state. Spring-fed mineral pools provide habitat for endangered white fish, great place for bird watching.
Rhyolite Historic Area (Battle Mountain)
This historic ghost town is known for its "Cook Bank Building" which is one of the most photographed buildings in the West. Day use only.
Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge (Las Vegas)
The Moapa Valley Refuge was established on September 10, 1979, to secure habitat for the endangered Moapa dace. This small fish, the sole member of the genus Moapa, is endemic to the Muddy River system. Dace populations have declined due to habitat destruction and the introduction of nonnative fish species. This modest refuge--106 acres--located in Clark County, Nevada, 60 miles north of Las Vegas, is critical to prevent extinction of the Moapa dace.
Parashant National Monument (Boulder City)
Parashant National Monument, located on the northern edge of the Grand Canyon was established by presidential proclamation on January 11, 2000. This remote area of open, undeveloped spaces is an impressive and diverse landscape that includes an array of scientific and historic resources. Parashant National Monument is a very remote and undeveloped place managed by the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management. There are no paved roads into the Monument and no visitor services.
Lahontan Reservoir (Fallon)
Lahontan Dam and Reservoir, on the Carson River store the natural flow of the Carson River along with water diverted from the Truckee River. The dam is a feature of the Newlands Project. There is a powerplant immediately below the dam. Surface area of approximately 11, 200 acres at full reservoir storage with 69 miles of shoreline. Fishing season is year-round. The reservoir is a warm-water fishery that supports white bass, walleye, white crappie, catfish, and brown and rainbow trout.
Ely Elk Viewing Area (Ely)
The largest herd of elk in Nevada can be observed feeding during the fall and spring seasons, both along the paved highway south of Ely and at the viewing area pull-out. Peak viewing times are October through November and March through April, with elk sometimes also seen in mid-winter. Other watchable wildlife species in the area include golden eagles, ravens, black-tailed jackrabbits and least chipmunks.
Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge (Alamo)
The Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge, approximately 90 miles north of Las Vegas in Lincoln County, Nevada, is located in the Pacific Flyway, and encompasses 5, 380 acres. The name, Pahranagat, comes from the Pauite Indian word meaning valley of shining waters. Established to provide habitat for migratory birds, especially waterfowl, the refuge is a unit of the Desert National Wildlife Refuge Complex. More than 230 different species of birds use refuge habitats.
North Wildhorse Recreation Area (Elko)
Wildhorse Reservoir is an important northeastern Nevada year-round fishery, which also offers excellent ice fishing in the winter (December through early March). Summers are mild, and boating, shore fishing, water skiing and wind surfing are popular activities. There are 18 campsites , tables, fire rings, grills, tree or shade ramadas, three group sites, vault toilets, hand pump water, no hook-ups, maximum trailer length is 24ft. Camping - $6.00 per vehicle/night, day use - $2.00 per vehicle.
Wilson Reservoir Recreation Management Area (Elko)
Rolling sagebrush surrounds this scenic area that lies near the base of the majestic Bull Run Mountains. The reservoir is apopular year-round fishery for rainbow and German brown trout. Large mouth bass fishing is usually good during the summermonths. Ice fishing is very popular, although vehicle access is poor and the road is not maintained during winter months. There are 15 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. Vault toilets, dump station, hand pump water and a boat ramp.
South Fork Canyon Recreation Management Area (Elko)
Located northwest of South Fork State Recreation Area, South Fork Canyon offers access to the South Fork River. Float the river in tubes, kayaks or canoes. Along the river you will have the opportunity to see part of the California National Historic Trail (Hastings Cutoff), wildlife, deep limestone canyon walls, and cultural sites. The best time to float the river is during spring runoff. The river is mostly Class I with limited Class II areas (only at peak flows).
Black Rock Desert Recreation Area (Winnemucca)
Spectacular scenic opportunities abound in one of the largest and flattest alkaline playas in the United States. The Playa is a now-dry remnant of ancient Lake Lahontan; it is 44 miles long (oriented north-south), and averages 7 miles in width. Opportunities for solitude are considerable. A variety of interesting geologic features dominate the landscape. The near-pristine Applegate-Lassen section of the California National Historic Trail traverses the Playa.
Hickison Petroglyph Recreation Area (Battle Mtn)
A great place to take a walk, let the kids run, have a picnic, spend a few days camping, and look at ancient petroglyphs. Hickison offers long vistas, shade, and an opportunity to think about early Native Americans hunting, drawing on rock, and living in this area.
Garnet Hill (Ely)
Elevation: 7000 ft. Rockhound site. Dark red garnets are the feature. Also view the open pit copper mine of the Robinson Mining District.
Railroad Valley Wildlife Management Area (Battle Mountain)
A terrific birding place with 147 species listed with half considered common to the area. Four separate sections provide habitat for migratory and nesting waterfowl, non-game birds, mammals, and fishes. The areas cannot be seen from the highway, so it is a surprise to take a dirt road and find a wetland with tall reeds. Chimney Springs, Locke`s Pond, Big Well Ponds, and Blue Eagle Pond are four parts of the area accessible over dirt roads.
Goshute Mountain Watchable Wildlife Area (Elko)
Elevation 9000 feet. Goshute Mountains funnel thousands of raptors past this site during the fall migration. Follow watchable wildlife binocular logo signs from Alternate 93 to trailhead parking. Part of this site is a wilderness study area, under consideration for federal protection. There is a 3 mile trail towards the top of the mountain rated moderate to strenuous. Breathtaking views of the Goshute Mountain Range and the great salt flats to the east.
Lahontan Cutthroat Natural Area (Winnemucca)
Protected habitat for the Lahontan cutthroat trout, a threatened species. Area includes most of the Mahogany Creek drainage above Summer Camp Creek. No fishing allowed but birdwatching is great, also wildlife viewing. Mule deer, pronghorn are resident big game.
Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge (Ruby Valley)
Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge lies at the southern end of the Ruby Valley in northeast Nevada. Located at an elevation of 6, 000 feet and flanked on the west by the rugged and scenic Ruby Mountains, it is one of the most remote refuges in the lower 48 states. The refuge encompasses 39, 928 acres and consists of a marsh bordered by meadows, grasslands, and brush-covered uplands.
Great Basin National Park (Baker)
From the sagebrush at its alluvial base to the 13, 063-foot summit of Wheeler Peak, Great Basin National Park includes streams, lakes, alpine plants, abundant wildlife, a variety of forest types including groves of ancient bristlecone pines, and numerous limestone caverns, including beautiful Lehman Caves. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE PARK AND PROGRAMS, CLICK THE "IN DEPTH" BUTTON TO THE RIGHT.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area (Boulder City)
Lake Mead National Recreation Area (NRA) offers a wealth of things to do and places to go year-round. Its huge lakes cater to boaters, swimmers, sunbathers, and fishermen while its desert rewards hikers, wildlife photographers, and roadside sightseers. Three of America's four desert ecosystems--the Mojave, the Great Basin, and the Sonoran Deserts--meet in Lake Mead NRA.
Indian Creek-E. Fork Carson River Recreation Management Area (Carson City)
Indian Creek Recreation Area is located in a pine forest at an elevation of 6, 000 feet. The area lies at the edge of the scenic Sierra Nevada Mountains, approximately 20 miles southeast of Lake Tahoe. The surrounding area ranges from high mountains, rivers and streams in the west, to Great Basin Desert with pinion pine and sagebrush in the east. Recreational facilities include a 160-acre reservoir, a developed recreation site, and hiking trails.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area (Las Vegas)
This is a beautiful area in which to experience the natural wonders of the Mohave Desert. The red- and cream-colored sandstone cliffs are awesome. Scramble across fossilized sand dunes, explore the recesses between the rocks, climb sheer rock walls, or just enjoy the scenic beauty along the road. Rock climbers dot the cliffs in this world-class climbing area. This area also features a 13-mile paved, scenic loop drive, visitor center, and day-use area.
Hoover Dam (Boulder City)
Hoover Dam on the Colorado River, is a feature of the Boulder Canyon Project. Located on the Arizona-Nevada state line, at 726 feet it is the highest concrete dam in the United States, a National Historic Landmark, and one of America's Seven Modern Civil Engineering Wonders. The Bureau of Reclamation started conducting guided tours through Hoover Dam and Powerplant in 1937. More than 1, 000, 000 visitors a year take the tours and millions more drive across the dam.