Washoe Lake State Park

At Washoe Lake State Park, you can play on more than 8,000 acres, half water, half land. It’s only 18 miles from Reno and just five from Carson City, and yet it feels like the ends of the earth. Hike, bike, and paddle to your heart’s content, but be sure to bring your camera. The views of the surrounding mountain ranges are stunning in every season, and you’re also likely to come upon an amazing array of birds and wildlife

Washoe Lake is more than 5,000 feet above sea level and contains a huge diversity of ecosystems. In addition to the pristine lake, you’ll also find expansive wetlands, massive sand dunes, and open sagebrush. You won’t, however, encounter a forest. The lake sits just below the treeline, and is therefore sweltering in the summer months. Good thing the waters will keep you cool!