Situated in a colorful canyon, with towering walls up to 700 feet high and a long, verdant valley in between, Kershaw-Ryan State Park is an oasis in the desert, a sharp contrast to the rugged landscape that surrounds it. Natural springs grow a garden of wild grapevines, white oaks, fruit trees and willows, and a spring-fed pond provides a refreshing children’s wading pool. It is not unusual to see wild horses, deer and other wildlife come to the water. With plenty of places to picnic and a series of trails that wind throughout, the park is a great choice for hiking, camping and nature study.
Camping: The park has a 15-unit campground with a restroom, coin-operated showers and an RV dump station. Each site has a shade ramada, picnic table, fire ring and grill. The camping limit is seven days in a 30-day period.
Group Use Areas: There are two group use areas in the park. Please contact the park office to make reservations.
Picnicking: Tables and grills are scattered through the oaks at the top of the park and along Rattlesnake Canyon Trail. When not otherwise reserved, picnickers may also use the tables under the group shelters.
Hiking: Experienced hikers may explore the park’s back country above the canyon via the 1.5-mile Overlook Trail. During the summer hikers should be alert for rattlesnakes, particularly along the trails and in the cool shady areas of the park. Also be alert for thunderstorms that may cause flash floods in the canyons. Plan hikes for the morning or evening hours.
Programs: Information about program scheduling may be obtained from either park staff or kiosks. Upon request, special presentations can be arranged for groups.
Hours: 8 a.m. to sunset, 365 days a year.
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Courtesy S. Ward – Northern Nevada Railroad, The Ghost Train