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SP Campground Review – Washoe Lake State Park, Carson City, NV

Posted on October 29, 2011 | 9 Comments

The gorgeous beach at Washoe Lake

A primitive, but simply gorgeous state park off Hwy 395 between Reno and Carson City in W.Nevada.

Link to campground here: Washoe Lake State Park, NV
Link to map location here: Washoe Lake State Park, NV

Site Quality = 4/5
Although this is a primitive (non-hookup) campground it gets absolute tops marks for sites. All are paved, large very flat sites with good separation and lovely sitting areas. Mostly back-ins with a few pull-throughs. Most have shelters with picnic table, grill and fire-pit. Lovely views of surrounding hills from every site. Both loops are very similar although the front (sites 1-24, nearest the beach) loop seems to have the best selection of pristine sites.
Facilities = 3.5/5
Facilities are decent. Flush toilets and individual (very large) shower stalls. Only main ding is the showers are a tad older and have timer-buttons and those annoying spray heads. Lots of surrounding space incl. day-use area, boat ramp, hiking trails and beach/lake access. On-site dual dump station and potable water.
Location = 5/5
This is a great location in my opinion. You are conveniently close to Hwy 395 and to two major cities (Reno & Carson City), yet far enough off-road to have a sense of complete nature and quiet. The campground is wonderfully natural and seems way “out there”.
Pet Friendliness = 5/5
Another great park for pooch. Many miles of hiking trails on-site including a wonderful trail to the lake right from the front campground loop to walk & play by the water.

Overall Rating = 4.4
BONUS ALERT = Camp with sweeping 360-degree views and quiet right near Hwy395!

Summary: We chose this primarily as a convenient stop-over on Hwy 395 south, but ended up absolutely delighted by the campground. Although it’s only a few miles off the highway and close to two major cities (Reno and Carson City) it feels incredibly remote, quiet and natural. The sites are simply pristine. Huge, flat paved surfaces with lots of separation, beautiful “sitting areas” and lovely 360-degree views of the surrounding hills. A cute 1/2 mile trail takes you to the lake-side, plus there are several miles of other trails in the area. Overall a really lovely campground and we would most definitely come again.

Extra Info: Good Verizon signal on cellphone and datacard. Sites cost $17/night no hookups. 49 sites, all first-come-first-serve. On-site dump station and potable water.