Washoe Lake State Park
Discover Washoe Lake State Park: home to wild horses, strong winds for water sports, and stunning Nevada landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for wild horse sightings
Washoe Lake State Park
Best Time
Best chance for wild horse sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Washoe Lake State Park: home to wild horses, strong winds for water sports, and stunning Nevada landscapes.
"A worthwhile stop with beautiful grounds, shade, and the chance to see wild horses."
🎯 Wild Horse Etiquette
Observe wild horses from a distance. Never feed or approach them.
💨 Embrace the Wind
Pack layers! The Washoe Zephyr winds can be strong and cool, even on warm days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wild Horse Sightings
Near the main park entrance
Encounter majestic wild horses roaming freely against stunning natural backdrops. A truly unforgettable Nevada experience.
Wind Sports Haven
Washoe Lake
Feel the exhilaration as kiteboarders and windsurfers dance across the water, powered by the famous Washoe Zephyr winds.
Scenic Hiking & Biking
Various trails
Explore open skies and mountain views on trails perfect for hiking and road biking, offering a peaceful escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Wild Horses & Wind
Camping & Day Use
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wild Horse Etiquette
Observe wild horses from a distance. Never feed or approach them. +1
💨 Embrace the Wind
Pack layers! The Washoe Zephyr winds can be strong and cool, even on warm days. +1
🚗 Day Use Parking
Day use areas are accessible all hours. Arrive early for prime spots, especially on weekends.
💧 Water Safety
While advisories exist for fish, swimming is generally considered safe.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wild Horse Etiquette
Observe wild horses from a distance. Never feed or approach them. +1
💨 Embrace the Wind
Pack layers! The Washoe Zephyr winds can be strong and cool, even on warm days. +1
🚗 Day Use Parking
Day use areas are accessible all hours. Arrive early for prime spots, especially on weekends.
💧 Water Safety
While advisories exist for fish, swimming is generally considered safe.
🏕️ Campsite Choice
Loop A offers hookups; Loop B is more primitive. Book ahead for popular times.
🔥 Campfire Caution
Be extra vigilant with campfires due to wind and dry conditions. Ensure they are fully extinguished.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Washoe Lake State Park for its spacious campsites, beautiful natural scenery, and the unique opportunity to see wild horses. The friendly park personnel and clean facilities are also frequently highlighted. However, some note a lack of extensive activities beyond nature observation and express concerns about campfire safety during windy conditions.
"We did not stay the night, only visited as a detour from long drive. It was worth the stop. Beautiful grounds with plenty of shade. It had a boat ramp and a "kids beach". Clean restrooms. And an abundance of song birds, quail, pelicans and butterflies. Popular area for road bikes. Also noted paragliders across the road.
Park personnel were friendly."
Kelly L
"I do like this park because of the spaciousness between sites, the wide open natural grass terrain and surrounding Mountain views. The current long-term Campground Hosts on A Loop are super available and do a great job.
The wide meadow beauty and camper safety seems at risk sometimes because of the campfires combined with frequent strong breezes or winds and high temperatures. I'm surprised campfires were even allowed at all in late May within 95 plus degree heat and wind warnings (which is even more of a problem if people move their fire pits out into the grass).
Perhaps the hosts or rangers (not sure there are any of the latter), could check on camp fires (and pit locations) in the late afternoon, eves and up until quiet time. People in campgrounds periodically leave their fires to burn out unattended (which seems unsafe) as well.
We appreciated the Clean bathrooms, grounds, and prompt trash pickup! Be nice when the second ranger is hired so there can actually be some coverage especially evenings - given the park "day use" access never closes so visitors come in at all hours."
Steve Johnson
"Washoe Lake State Park campground has 2 loops. Loop A has electric amd water hookup. Loop B has no hookups. It has covered picnic tables, fire rings, level parking, flush toilets, and pay showers. There are also day use areas. The lake is shallow. There is lots of sagebrush ehic makes it smell sweet. The stars are amazing. There are sites for equestrians. Camping for tents, and RVs."
Minda Beckwith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Washoe Lake State Park is conveniently located between Reno and Carson City. Take US-395 S from Reno, and the park will be on your right. The drive is scenic and takes about 30-40 minutes.
Public transportation options to Washoe Lake State Park are limited. It's best accessed by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have your own vehicle.
From Reno, take US-395 South. From Carson City, take US-395 North. The park entrance is clearly marked off the highway.
Yes, ample parking is available in designated day-use areas and at the campground. Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot.
The park's day-use access never closes, meaning visitors can enter at all hours. However, campground quiet hours are enforced.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is $10.00 for non-Nevada residents for day use. Nevada residents may have different fees or passes.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season and weekends, as campsites can fill up quickly.
The park's day-use areas are open 24/7, but specific facilities like restrooms and visitor centers may have set hours. Campground access is also 24/7.
Nevada residents may be eligible for discounted entry or annual passes. It's advisable to check the official Nevada State Parks website for current pricing.
Payment methods can vary. It's best to confirm if credit cards are accepted at the entrance station or if cash is preferred.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include hiking, biking, camping, picnicking, bird watching, and observing wild horses. The lake is also popular for windsurfing and kiteboarding. +3
Yes, Washoe Lake State Park is well-known for its resident wild horses, which are often spotted by visitors, especially in the mornings. +5
While the lake is shallow and advisories exist regarding fish consumption due to mercury, swimming is generally considered safe.
The park has two campground loops: Loop A with electric and water hookups, and Loop B with no hookups. Both offer fire rings and picnic tables.
Yes, there are trails for hiking and walking, offering scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within Washoe Lake State Park. Visitors should plan to bring their own food and drinks for picnics or camping meals.
Absolutely! The park has designated day-use areas with picnic tables, making it a perfect spot for a scenic outdoor meal.
The nearest dining options are in the nearby cities of Reno and Carson City, which offer a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.
There is no general store within the park. It's recommended to purchase any necessary supplies, such as groceries or camping gear, before arriving.
Yes, fire rings are provided at campsites, allowing for campfires for cooking and warmth. However, be mindful of fire restrictions and safety guidelines.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake shores, mountain vistas, and especially areas where wild horses are spotted offer incredible photographic opportunities. Sunsets are also stunning. +2
Yes, many visitors capture photos of the wild horses. Remember to maintain a safe and respectful distance to avoid disturbing them. +5
Early mornings and late afternoons/evenings offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues. Sunsets are particularly dramatic.
Drone usage is subject to Nevada State Parks regulations. It's essential to check the park's specific rules regarding drone operation before flying.
Besides wild horses, you can photograph various birds (pelicans, songbirds, quail), butterflies, and other local fauna.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Camping here can be a memorable family adventure. Loop A offers hookups for RVs, which can be convenient for families. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options within the park are non-existent. The opportunity to potentially see wild horses can be a huge thrill for kids, making the visit extra special.
🏕️ Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks is essential, as there are no dining facilities or stores within the park, which helps significantly in saving money. The park's natural beauty and activities like hiking and wildlife viewing are free once you've paid the entrance or camping fee. This makes it an excellent destination for enjoying the outdoors without breaking the bank.
💨 Adventure Seekers & Water Sports Enthusiasts
Beyond water sports, the park offers opportunities for exploration. Hiking and biking trails provide a way to experience the park's scenic beauty and open landscapes. The chance to spot wild horses adds an element of adventure to any visit, making it a dynamic destination for those seeking an active outdoor experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Encountering Washoe Lake's Wild Horses
When encountering the wild horses, it's crucial to remember they are indeed wild and should be treated with respect. Maintain a safe distance, never attempt to feed them, and avoid any actions that could cause them stress or alter their natural behavior. Observing them from afar allows for authentic viewing experiences and helps preserve their wild status. The sight of these horses against the backdrop of the Nevada landscape is a highlight for many who visit the park.
Park personnel and experienced visitors often note that the horses can be found in various areas, sometimes near the main park entrance or grazing in the meadows. While sightings are common, they are not guaranteed, as the horses roam freely. Patience and a keen eye are your best companions when seeking out these beautiful creatures.
The Famous Washoe Zephyr: Wind Sports and Weather
While the wind is a draw for sports, it also means visitors should be prepared for changing weather conditions. Even on warm days, the wind can create a cooler atmosphere, so packing layers is highly recommended.
Understanding the wind patterns can enhance your visit. If you're interested in wind sports, plan your visit for the afternoon. If you prefer a calmer experience, early mornings might be more suitable. The consistent breeze also contributes to the park's unique character, offering a refreshing element to the arid Nevada landscape.
Camping Experience at Washoe Lake
Campground hosts are often praised for their helpfulness and availability, contributing to a positive camping atmosphere.
However, campers should be aware of the park's environment. The presence of sagebrush contributes a pleasant scent, and the clear desert skies offer spectacular stargazing opportunities. It's important to note that while the park is beautiful, some reviewers mention there isn't a vast array of activities beyond the natural scenery and wildlife viewing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit