Camping Gems - Nevada
National Cowboy Poetry Gathering
Held at the Western Folklife Center, the annual National Cowboy Poetry Gathering makes a January splash. You can catch one of the regular performances, listen in on the public radio segments that are taped here, or tour through the center, viewing displays about the American West. You might catch a book reading, hear a concert, or take part in a workshop.
Valley of Fire State Park
Located only six miles from Lake Mead, Valley of Fire is Nevada's oldest and largest state park. The valley derives its name from the red sandstone formations and the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert. Ancient trees and early man are represented throughout the park by areas of petrified wood and 3,000 year-old Indian petroglyph. Popular activities include camping, hiking, picnicking, and photography.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Not far west of Las Vegas lies the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, a 13-mile stretch of hiking and biking trails, red rocks, and climbing areas. The NCA is home to a herd of wild burros as well as bobcats and bighorn sheep. Take a scenic drive through the NCA, tour the interpretive trail at the ranger's station, or head off into the backcountry for a more serious hike.
Pyramid Lake, north of Reno
With a rocky "pyramid" set right in the middle, this desert lake is a terrific place to photograph or to enjoy outdoor activities like road biking on the Pyramid Lake Tour, bird watching, or driving the 30 mile scenic byway. The lake is also a resting place for a variety of migrating waterfowl.
Tahoe Rim Trail
With pocket views of Lake Tahoe and the gorgeous Sierra Nevada mountains, this is a superb place to enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail forms a loop around Lake Tahoe, so you never have to cover the same stretch of trail twice.
Bloody Shins Trail, Winnemucca
If you're looking for phenomenal mountain biking, head to Winnemucca's Bloody Shins Trail. You'll have a choice of loops -- the 7-mile beginner loop or the 12-mile intermediate loop. The trail is also open to hiking and horseback riding.
Mount Rose Wilderness Area, near Reno
Blue lakes, colorful wildflowers, and a variety of wildlife are just a few attractions this wilderness has to offer. Nestled between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Great Basin is the 30,000-acre Mount Rose wilderness, named after the highest peak in the Carson Range. The strenuous 12 mile round trip hike to the summit of Mount Rose (10,776 feet) is popular among those seeking a wilderness challenge.
East Fork Carson River
Looking for incredible whitewater rafting in northern Nevada? Head to the East Fork of the Carson River for a perfect day of rafting, whitewater kayaking, or trout fishing. In the upper reaches, this secluded river can only be accessed by 4WD or on foot.
Truckee River Whitewater Park, Wingfield Park in Reno
If you're ready to work on your whitewater kayak and canoeing skills, head to Reno's Wingfield Park for a day on the water. The Whitewater park offers a number of drop pools and streams to try, including a kayak slalom racing course. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced paddler, you'll find something challenging on the course.
Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge
The Stillwater wetlands are well-known to birders, as this area has been designated a site of international importance by the Western Hemispheric Shorebird Reserve Network because of the hundreds of thousands of shorebirds, such as Long-billed dowitcher, Black-necked stilt, and American avocet passing through during migration. |
