Dayton State Park

Description

The small town of Dayton is full of historic first's for Nevada, one of the most notable being the first piece of gold to be found. Around 1849, after the gold was found, people flocked to Dayton to get their fair share of the wealth. Soon a small town popped up and the largest stamp mill was built, the Rock Point Stamp Mill! Remnants of this old mill are still preserved today at the Dayton State Historic Park.

Situated along the Carson River this state park has everything from fishing, historic sites and camping. Several small trails weave around the park making this the perfect family staycation.

There are 4 established trails and several social trails throughout the park. The main trails include the Nature trail, River trail, Mary's Garden trail and the Tunnel trail.

The Nature trail is located at the front of the park near the entrance. Access to this trail is next to the main park kiosk near the camping area. This trail weaves through giant cottonwoods and aspen trees and follows along a run off from the Carson River. Several sitting benches are places throughout this loop to offer visitors a nice spot for relaxation and bird watching.

The River trail is located at the far east end of the park along the service road. This trail head gives access to a portage spot for paddlers to access the Carson River. It continues past the river and eventually meets up with the nature trail.

Mary's Garden trail is a small loop with plenty of picnic tables at the beginning. The trailhead is located near the restrooms and is marked by a painted wooden sign. The Tunnel trail can be accessed via Mary's Garden trail and takes you rock point mill. You will need to go through the storm drain tunnel to get to this wonderful historic site. Several trails go around the stamp mill site.