A variety of fall-themed activities are planned throughout October at Washoe Lake State Park, offering visitors opportunities to enjoy Nevada’s natural landscape and community events.
Each event is open to the public, with a standard park entrance fee of $5 for Nevada residents and $10 for non-residents.
Activities range from night hikes and Halloween-themed storytelling to family games and educational programs.
On Saturday, October 11, the park will host two events. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., teams can compete in the Nevada State Parks Foundation Cornhole Classic Series Opener, a friendly tournament that raises funds for state parks.
Team registration is $40 and can be completed through the Scoreholio App or paid on-site.
The cornhole event takes place at the Washoe Lake Group Use Area, located to the left after the park fee booth.Â
Later that evening, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., a Talk with a Ranger Campfire Program invites visitors to meet park staff, learn about local wildlife, and enjoy s’mores by the fire.
The program will be held at the Campground Amphitheater, and ingredients for s’mores will be provided while supplies last.Â
On Friday, October 17, a Night Hike will guide participants along the South Loop Equestrian Trail from 7:30 to 9 p.m.
The 2.5-mile hike requires a flashlight and weather-appropriate clothing. The meeting location is the Equestrian Area, to the right after the fee booth.
The following evening, Saturday, October 18, the park will host Campfire Stories at the Campground Amphitheater from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Families can create their own tales using illustrated story cards, with light refreshments available while supplies last.
On Saturday, October 25, the focus turns to Halloween with Spooky Campfire Stories from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the same amphitheater location. The event features ghost stories connected to Deadman’s Creek, Bower’s Mansion, and Virginia City, with an open invitation for attendees to share their own.
The month wraps up with Celebrate Fall!, a seasonal gathering featuring games, activities, and treats on Sunday, October 26, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Equestrian Pavilion.
All events take place at Washoe Lake State Park, located at 4855 Eastlake Boulevard in Washoe Valley. From I-580, take Exit 10 and drive north on Eastlake Boulevard for four miles. The park entrance is on the left.
For a full list of October activities and additional details, visit the Nevada State Parks events page at parks.nv.gov/events/spooky-harbor.
