Natural Resources and Climate of Lahontan State Recreation Area

The park's vegetation is dominated by high desert sagebrush communities. Wooded areas of native cottonwoods and willows are scattered along the lake shore. Riparian zones are found up and downstream of the lake along the Carson River. Much of the park is below 4,000 feet in elevation. Rock from ancient volcanic flows is common in the mountains around the lake. Wild horses, bobcat, coyote, fox and deer share the park with a variety of birds. Migratory waterfowl, pelicans, herons, egrets and hawks are frequently seen. Lahontan is one of the few nesting sites for bald eagles.

The climate is typical of the northern Nevada desert region. Rainfall is slight, averaging less than six inches annually. Sunny skies are the norm, with summer daytime temperatures near 90˚F. Nights may drop below 50 degrees.