With its big lake, scenic views, and sandy trails, Washoe Lake State Park is a favorite year-round destination for local equestrians.
Conveniently located between Reno and Carson City, Washoe Lake State Park is a great spot for a day ride or a weekend horse camping trip. Of all the state parks, Washoe is probably the best thought-out one for equestrians, in terms of infrastructure. In addition to miles of trails, this popular recreation spot also boasts a lot of amenities for equestrians.
Campground
The equestrian campground has eight covered stalls for horses and a large parking area for trailers. There are picnic tables, fire rings, as well as a water spigot and trough. Some of the stalls have hay feeders in them. Reservations are not required for the equestrian camp – but the entire equestrian area can be reserved. That includes an arena, round pen, large covered barbeque area with tables, grills, sink and counter space, power, water, and lighting.
The non-equestrian campground is close by and on some busier nights in the summer can be a bit noisy, but the park staff do a good job of enforcing quiet hours. The horse camp is signed for equestrians only and the park does a good job enforcing that too.
The main parking area for day use is large enough for many rigs and features two more covered stalls (for day use only), several water spigots and troughs, as well as wash racks. There are also several vault toilets on site with sinks, as well as dumpsters and trash cans.
Trails
There is so much to ride at Washoe Lake. You can follow the trails through the thick sagebrush, wind through the sand dunes, or ride along the shoreline of the lake. There are many loop options of various lengths that you can combine for more mileage. The sand dune trails are a little more challenging because of the hills and deep sand, otherwise, these are relatively flat and non-technical trails.
Years ago State Parks built a trail trial course through the park but it has not been maintained. Many of the obstacles are in need of repair but you can still find and use some of them, like the small bridges, gates, a mailbox, etc.
There are several bands of wild horses in the park. Generally, they are quite used to riders and domestic horses but keep your distance regardless. Otherwise, you may spot a coyote here and there. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, herons, and other birds. The park can get pretty busy in the summer with campers, hikers, windsurfers, etc. but those folks aren’t usually on the equestrian trails. It is a popular riding spot though and some weekends see the parking lot filled with horse trailers.
Washoe Lake itself is a large but shallow lake. In drought years the lake can become a muddy mess and nearly completely dry up. In wet years it can be quite full. It just varies from year to year. This whole valley is prone to periodic gusty winds, so best to check the weather before heading out. The park is accessible for trail riders year-round. Enjoy a swim in the lake with your horse in the summer or break trail in fresh snow in the winter.
Getting Here
Trail Maps
