Nevada has added a new state park, protecting miles of the Carson River corridor while preserving historic and cultural sites and expanding public access to outdoor recreation.
Governor Joe Lombardo and the Nevada Division of State Parks announced the creation of the state's newest park, which protects 4.5 miles of the Carson River corridor, preserves cultural resources dating to the late 1800s and includes portions of the historic California and Pony Express trails.
The property also includes a site that operated as a divorce ranch during the 1940s, reflecting a unique chapter in Nevada history when the state's six-week residency requirement made it a destination for people seeking divorces.
“This new State Park is an investment in Nevada’s future and a commitment to preserving the natural beauty that makes our state unique,” Lombardo said. “By protecting this remarkable landscape and expanding public access, we are ensuring that future generations of Nevadans and visitors alike can experience, explore, and appreciate this special place for years to come.”
The property was acquired through a partnership between Nevada State Parks and Western Rivers Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that purchases and transfers land along rivers throughout the West to benefit fish, wildlife, and people.
Funding for the acquisition came through the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Conserve Nevada Program. The Nevada State Parks Foundation served as the nonprofit recipient of the Conserve Nevada Grant and helped facilitate the purchase.
“We are honored to work with Nevada State Parks and feel grateful to be a part of creating new access to the Carson River for the people of Nevada,” said Nelson Mathews, president of Western Rivers Conservancy. "Projects like this demonstrate that expanding outdoor recreation and conserving fish and wildlife habitat can go hand in hand.”
The announcement also launches a public effort to name the new park.
Beginning July 1, members of the public can submit name suggestions through an online survey. After the submission period closes on July 15, an internal review committee will select a shortlist of names that reflect the park's history, significance, and character. Public voting on the finalists is scheduled for August 1 through August 14, with the official designation ceremony planned for later this fall.
“State Parks belong to all of us, and we wanted to give the public an opportunity to provide input in shaping the identity of this new park,” said Nevada State Parks Administrator Jonathan Brunjes. “This is a unique opportunity for Nevadans to leave a lasting mark on the future of their State Park system.”
There is no limit to the number of name suggestions people may submit.
The park will initially have limited public access while Nevada State Parks develops future recreational opportunities, visitor services, and additional amenities with public input. Information about access and future development will be shared as planning continues.
