Washoe Lake State Park
4.5(1.3K)google
4.1(38)yelp
LakeOutdoor
Overview
Washoe Lake State Park is a year-round public recreation area occupying over 3,700 acres (1,500 ha) on the southeast shore of Washoe Lake in Washoe County, Nevada. The state park lies to the east of Lake Tahoe, approximately five miles (8.0 km) north of Carson City near U.S. Route 395. The area around the park is known for its high winds making Washoe Lake a popular destination for windsurfers.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration3-5 hours
Best TimeSpring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are the prime seasons to visit. Spring brings gorgeous shoreline wildflowers and pleasant temperatures, while autumn offers spectacular migratory bird watching, excellent sand dune hiking, horseback riding, and breathtaking sunset views over the Sierra Nevada range.
Getting ThereSituated in Washoe Valley between Carson City and Reno at 4855 Eastlake Blvd. From downtown Carson City, drive north on I-580 N, then exit onto Eastlake Blvd and head north for about 15 minutes to the park gates. Paved parking lots are located at all primary day-use areas.
Travel Tips
- Experiencing extreme wind shear known as 'Washoe Zephyrs' blowing off the Sierras, watercraft and kayakers must track hourly wind alerts due to sudden high waves.
- Campground loops cannot accommodate RV-trailer rigs exceeding 45 feet combined length, and all individual sites lack utility hookups, requiring dry camping preparation.
- The marshes and mudflats attract massive seasonal swarms of biting midges and mosquitoes; applying high-DEET insect repellent and wearing heavy-weave long sleeves is essential.
Reviews
Positive
- The scenery possesses an endless, raw, and peaceful beauty. Sitting by the shore offers distant views of the snow-capped Carson Range, perfect for sunsets and birding.
- Park amenities are well-built, with wide, flat beach picnic sites, clean flush restrooms, dedicated equestrian trails, and excellently planned RV campsites.
- A perfect alternative to dodge the massive crowds of Lake Tahoe. Visitor density and commercialization are extremely low; you can kayak or walk the boardwalk in peace.
- Access is easy, under a 30-minute drive from either Carson City or Reno. It has long opening hours, and the vehicle entry fee is cheap, offering great cost-efficiency.
Heads up
- Influenced by climate and drought, Washoe Lake's water level fluctuates wildly. Often the water recedes far, leaving muddy flats that degrade the scenic view.
- Since the lake is shallow and raw wildlife habitat, summer and fall bring swarms of mosquitoes and midges near the grass. You will get bitten without bug spray.
- The wind here is often shockingly strong! Sitting in an open valley, intense afternoon gusts create choppy waves that halt boating and whip up blinding sand.
- There are almost no large shade trees in the park, and shade structures feel insufficient in popular areas, leading to easy sunburns under the unshielded sun.