The Pitchfork Ranch is the newest of the state parks, and includes a 5.6-mile paddling trail in the Walker River.
The 5.6-mile Walker River Water Trail takes the paddler through beautiful shady cottonwoods and along the historic ranching lands. There are several areas of Class II and Class III rapids along the route, depending upon the seasonal water flows. The easiest segment, for beginner paddlers, is between the Skull Rock and Riverbend access points, closest to the developed portion of the state park and campgrounds.
There are two main campgrounds in the park, River Bend and the new Quail Run Campground, which has RV hookups. Group sites and Cabins are also available – see the State Parks website for more information.
The Walker Basin Conservancy works to restore and maintain Walker Lake while protecting agricultural, environmental, and recreational interests throughout the Walker Basin. The Conservancy conveyed more than 12,000 acres of land and nearly 30 miles of the East Walker River to the State of Nevada to become the Walker River State Recreation Area (WRSRA). The new State Park opens this amazing stretch of river to public access, promotes protection of wildlife, and increases recreation in the region. Walker Basin Conservancy continues to work closely with state agencies to manage restoration activities on the WRSRA and actively promotes local public access, information, and recreation opportunities within the Basin. Learn more at: https://www.walkerbasin.org/community-recreation
For current river levels and flow rates visit https://waterdata.usgs.gov/monitoring-location/10293500/#parameterCode=00065&period=P7D
See the Nevada Department of Wildlife’s website for fishing regulations on the river.
For OHV riders, the park provides access to the Virginia Range hills. See the Nevada OHV Program website for more information.
See the TravelNevada website for more information on the park and surrounding communities.
Download map files for your own use.
From Yerington, head south on Hwy 208 and turn left on East Walker Road. Drive south for 4 miles to the giant arch entrance of the Pitchfork Ranch on your right.
From Hwy 395, near Topaz Lake, turn east onto SR 208. Stay on SR 208 for about 31 miles, heading toward Yerington. Turn right onto East Walker Road, and follow the dirt road for 4 miles to the park entrance.
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