Kershaw-Ryan

State Park

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About Kershaw-Ryan

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 seasonal 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. Campground is open 24 hrs, day use area is from 8 to sunset

Park Detail

FACILITIES & AMENITIES

Camping: The park has a 16-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. Each of the 16 campsites has 30 amp and 50 amp power and water hookups. The camping limit is seven days in a 30-day period.

First Come, First Serve Camping: Within the campground loop of the park, there are 4 tent-only campsites that remain first come, first served. The sites share access to the restroom and coin operated showers. Each site has a fire ring and tent pad. Photos and site specifics can be viewed on reservenevada.com.

Group Day-Use Areas: There are two group day-use areas in the park.

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/Mountain Biking: 14 miles of hiking/mountain biking trails are available. 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. 

Additional Amenities: Volleyball, horseshoe pits, children's pool and play structure. Pool is drained from October 1 to May 1.

Programs: Information about program scheduling may be obtained from either park staff or kiosks. Upon request, special presentations can be arranged for groups.

Hours: Campground Accessible 24/7, Day Use Area Open Daily 8 a.m. to Sunset


FIELD NOTES

  • Practice Leave No Trace and Tread Lightly principles.
  • Removing, disturbing or damaging any historic structure, artifact, rock, plant life, fossil or other feature is prohibited. State and federal laws protect this area and its resources.
  • Pets are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash of not more than six feet in length. Pets are not allowed in buildings or in the wading pond.
  • There is no lifeguard on duty.
  • Fires must be contained within grills. Gathering firewood is not permitted.
  • Horseshoes and volleyball are confined to designated areas.
  • The use of drones or any remote controlled aircraft is not allowed. Visit B4UFLY for more info.
  • Visitors are responsible for knowing all park rules and regulations in effect. Detailed rules and regulations are posted at the park or may be viewing the Park Rules page.
  • Those with developmental and/or physical limitations are invited to enjoy all of the recreational activities of Nevada State Parks. If you would like to request additional support or accommodations, please call the Nevada State Parks division office. We continually seek ways to provide recreational opportunities for people of all abilities and welcome any suggestions you may have.
  • View a list of frequently asked questions.

NATURAL RESOURCES/CLIMATE

Kershaw-Ryan State Park encompasses a canyon of contrasting beauty.  Below the rugged, rainbow hued cliffs a sage ribbon of valley meanders upward into a verdant oasis, a rare jewel set into the rough geology of the high desert. Those who first visit Kershaw-Ryan are amazed by the prolific growth of trees, vines, and flowers offering welcome shade and color to the desert weary traveler. (READ MORE)


HISTORY OF KERSHAW-RYAN STATE PARK – Established in 1961

Samuel and Hannah Kershaw first moved to the nearby Meadow Valley Wash in 1873 and soon planted an orchard and garden where the park wading pool and fruit trees now sit.  Rich with prolific springs and seeps, covered with wild grapes, Gambel oak and roses, it is easy to see why the park was historically named the “Kershaw Gardens” by local residents. (READ MORE)

Park Fees

Day use entrance fee:  $5.00 per vehicle (Non-NV Vehicles $10.00 per vehicle)
Camping:  $15.00 per vehicle, per night (Non-NV Vehicles: $20.00 per vehicle, per night) + $10.00 for sites with utility hook ups
Bike in:  $2.00 per bike  

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