Washoe Lake

In the Washoe Valley of Washoe County, Nevada, close to Carson City is a lake known as Washoe Lake. The lake's surface area varies significantly from year to year and it is relatively shallow. On the lake's southeast side is Washoe Lake State Park.

Between Reno and Carson City and to the east of the much bigger Lake Tahoe is the small, eutrophic Washoe Lake. Only 3.7 meters is the highest depth of the lake. The lake is quite turbid due to its shallowness and strong winds. The lake has completely dried up before, most recently in 1992, 1994, and 2004 due to severe droughts.

Warm-water fisheries like Washoe Lake are home to non-native species such Sacramento perch, white bass, channel catfish, brown bullhead, and carp. Since Washoe Lake last dried up in 2004, the Nevada Division of Wildlife has replenished the lake. On the lake's eastern bank, inside Washoe Lake State Park, there are two boat launches. A variety of birds have a home in the lake. Washoe Lake State Park is home to a huge variety of migratory and resident animals. On the lake's surface, pelicans, night, and great blue herons can be seen.

Location: Washoe County, Nevada