The Lahontan State Recreation Area was established in 1971, and is located on the Carson River, 18 miles west of Fallon and 45 miles northeast of Carson City. The area’s primary focus is the Lahontan Dam and Reservoir, which were built in 1905 as part of the 1902 Reclamation Act. This is a popular spot for local boaters, campers and equestrians. Seasonal hunting and fishing are also allowed - see the State Parks and Division of Wildlife websites below for more details.
Most of the trails in the Park are two-track dirt and sandy roads, which are used by motor vehicles, hikers, bikers and equestrians. Several of the primary access and campground roads are paved. Please drive slow and be respectful of other trail users.
The area has two main improved camping areas, but also allows dispersed, dry camping all along the sandy beaches of the lake. Many spots have restrooms, and are accessible with standard street vehicles. Motorized vehicles are allowed on the existing roads, to provide access to the dispersed camping sites along the lake, but all vehicles must be licensed.
There are two equestrian camping and staging spots in or near the park. One is at Scout Camp, just off of Highway 95, close to Buckland Station. The other equestrian staging area is at the end of 9th Street, in Silver Springs. There are many beautiful, sandy trails along the beach and through the large, shady cottonwoods that grow near the reservoir.
Nevada State Parks has switched to a reservation system. Check the requirements for camping here!
For equestrian specific information visit Nevada Horse Trails!
Nevada State Parks web pages for Fort Churchill, Buckland Station, and Lahontan State Recreation Area.
See the Nevada OHV Program’s website for off-roading trails in the surrounding BLM lands
Nevada Department of Wildlife website for fishing and boating information and regulations. Carson River, Lahontan Reservoir
To learn more about the Pony Express National Historic Trail, visit the National Park Service website.
TravelNevada’s website also has some good historic information on Buckland Station, Fort Churchill and Lahontan State Recreation Area.
For more information visit the Lahontan State Recreation Area website or contact:
Download map files for your own use.
Main park entrance and Ranger Station is at the end of Fir Avenue about 1.5 miles east of US 95. For the boat ramp and camping at the north end of the lake, head east on Hwy 50 out of Silver Springs, and turn right near the dam.
An equestrian parking and staging area is at the end of 9th Street, off of Hwy 95, in Silver Springs.
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