Nevada Public Lands Day: Celebrate with Fee-Free Access and Special Events

Cathedral Gorge State Park

Overview of Nevada Public Lands Day

On Saturday, September 28, residents and visitors of Nevada can conveniently explore the state’s breathtaking natural landscapes without incurring usual entrance fees. As part of Nevada Public Lands Day, fees for park entry, camping (for Saturday night), and boating are waived at state parks throughout the state.

Encouraging Outdoor Exploration

This initiative aims to motivate Nevadans to take advantage of the numerous affordable recreational activities available within their local environments. Bob Mergell, State Parks Administrator, stated, “Nevada’s state parks offer an exciting line-up of outdoor opportunities,” highlighting attractions such as the historical Ward Charcoal Ovens, authentic ghost towns like Berlin-Ichthyosaur, and fishing spots in Spring Valley.

Special Events Across Nevada’s State Parks

Several state parks will be hosting unique events and activities to mark Nevada Public Lands Day:

Northern Nevada Events

Walker River: Volunteer Native Shrub Planting
Assist in planting native shrubs along the East Walker River and enjoy an afternoon barbeque.
- Date: September 28, 9 a.m.
- Location: Pitchfork Ranch Group Use Area
- Contact: Raychael Valente at 775-463-1609 or raychael.valente@example.com
Washoe Lake: Night Hike
Participate in a 1.5-mile night hike that includes a brief astronomy discussion. Bring necessary gear such as a flashlight and water.
- Date: September 28, 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- Location: Washoe Lake State Park Maze Parking Lot
- Contact: Kim Zuch at 775-687-4319
Fort Churchill: Starry, Starry Night
Experience a night sky tour and learn about the stars as a natural resource.
- Date: September 28, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
- Location: Fort Churchill Museum
- Contact: Kristin Sanderson at 775-577-2345 or kristin.sanderson@example.com

Southern Nevada Events

Valley of Fire: Guided Off-Trail Hike
Explore the park’s off-trail areas on a moderate 3.8-mile hike with a limit of 25 participants. Reservations required.
- Date: September 28, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Location: Valley of Fire Visitor Center
- Contact: Rosa Prasser at 702-397-2088 or rosa.prasser@example.com
Ice Age Fossils: Public Lands Day Volunteer Event
Help develop two new parks focused on Pleistocene fossils through various volunteer activities.
- Date: September 28, 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- Location: North Las Vegas
- Contact: Garrett Fehner at 702-486-5126 or garrett.fehner@example.com

Eastern Nevada Events

Cathedral Gorge: Las Vegas Astronomical Society Star Party
Engage with star-gazing experts and witness the night sky through high-quality telescopes.
- Date: September 27 and 28, 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Cathedral Gorge State Park
- Contact: Dawn Andone at 775-728-4460 or dawn.andone@example.com

Conclusion

Nevada Public Lands Day presents a wonderful opportunity for everyone to explore the natural beauty and history of Nevada’s state parks free of charge. Whether you’re hiking under the stars or engaged in community volunteer work, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

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