WINNEMUCCA - From the high mountain lakes of the Pine Forest Range, to the vast and desolate Black Rock Desert Playa, the Winnemucca District Bureau of Land Management has something to offer every outdoor recreationist. Northwest Nevada is a high desert landscape dotted with expansive vistas, craggy mountain ranges and an abundance of opportunities for a visitor to choose their own adventure. Whether your pursuit is hunting, fishing, photography, ATV/OHV driving, mountain biking, hiking, or camping; the lands of northwestern Nevada has something for you.
Hunting - Some of the best upland bird hunting in the state can be found in the Winnemucca District. No special permit is required (except for outfitters & guides) to hunt on BLM land. Upland bird species include chukar, California quail, Hungarian partridge, and pheasant. Chukar like the rough mountain ranges, especially the lava scree slopes that will give you a good workout chasing them. Big game species include mule deer, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and mountain lion. Be sure to check with Nevada Division of Wildlife (NDOW) for regulations and licensing before striking out on your hunt.
Fishing - Believe it or not, there are quite a few fishing opportunities that exist in the Winnemucca area. Blue Lakes, Onion Valley and Knott Creek Reservoirs contain brook, cutthroat, and rainbow trout. Bilk Creek Reservoir has a good population of rainbow trout as well. Those wanting to hike and fish a little will enjoy the high mountain streams in the Santa Rosa Mountains. These streams are small and narrow, but contain a nice population of brook trout, with the occasional rainbow. Be sure to check with NDOW for regulations and licensing before heading out.
Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) - Whether you want to ride your ATV, truck or buggy, or motorcycle; there are hundreds of miles of routes that await you. Seven miles north of Winnemucca are the sand dunes where riders find a large area where they may ride a host of OHVs. Those wanting a more remote experience can find opportunities in the Black Rock country. High Rock Canyon, open from May through February, offers the experienced driver/rider some breathtaking views. Remember to stay on existing routes to minimize land disturbance, and the use of any motorized vehicle in a designated wilderness is prohibited. OHVs including ATVs must comply with Nevada's registration policies.
Hiking - Water Canyon affords anyone the opportunity to slip out after work and see some nice country within ten minutes of town. The Pine Forest and Santa Rosa Ranges offer some truly beautiful hikes in some high mountain country. To learn about some of the cultural heritage of the area, there is an easy one mile interpreted nature trail around the nationally recognized Lovelock Cave. For those wanting to really get away from it all, a backpacking trip into one of the ten wilderness areas in the Black Rock High Rock Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area is in order. From the vast Black Rock Desert Wilderness, to the high tree filled North Black Rock Range Wilderness, there is an adventure awaiting. Remember to practice Leave No Trace© principles when in wilderness, and if you pack it in, pack it out.
Camping - Several developed campsites are available within the Winnemucca District, all free of charge. Pine Forest and Water Canyon offer sites with pit toilets, picnic tables, and nice views of the surrounding landscape. Soldier Meadows and Stevens Camp in the western part of the district offer the same amenities. Undeveloped campsites are popular with backcountry travelers. Camping is allowed on most BLM lands unless otherwise posted or prohibited. Remember that the best campsites are found, not made. Please clean-up your campsite before leaving so others can have the same great experience you did. Be aware that fire restrictions may exist. Always check with the BLM for the most current fire restrictions before heading out for your trip.
Wherever you may decide to go, remember to go prepared. Make sure your vehicle is in good operational order, including a full-size spare tire. Carry one gallon of water per person per day at minimum, a set of tools for repairs and a shovel, and possibly some extra fuel. Cell phones most likely will not work, so let someone know where you are going and when you will return. For more information on any areas in the district, or to inquire about volunteer opportunities, stop by the BLM office or call (775) 623-1500. To report a wildfire, please call 1-800-535-6076.
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