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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Wilson Canyon

Wellington, California · Lyon County

Point of Interest:“Wilson Canyon” is a popular outdoor attraction near the town of Yerington, Nevada. The wider area includes a variety of recreation sites along the canyon and the West Walker River. These sites are managed by different public agencies (BLM, USFS, Nevada Department of Transportation). Visitors can enjo…

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About Wilson Canyon

Point of Interest:“Wilson Canyon” is a popular outdoor attraction near the town of Yerington, Nevada. The wider area includes a variety of recreation sites along the canyon and the West Walker River. These sites are managed by different public agencies (BLM, USFS, Nevada Department of Transportation). Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive, river access, trails, picnic tables, and camping.Overview:The BLM-managed portion of Wilson Canyon is on the north side of Highway NV-208. It features a large area of multi-use trails for OHV, horses, and hiking.Camping: There are no designated campsites, but visitors can overnight RVs and trailers in popular staging areas near Highway NV-208. Vault-toilets are located nearby.Vehicle Access: A high-clearance vehicle is not required. However, all roads are unpaved, may be muddy, and may contain sharp debris.Activities: Popular activities include off-roading (OHV), horse-back riding, and hiking along rugged desert trails. Along the river, visitors can also enjoy fishing, and wildlife viewing.Know Before You Go:Cell service is limited.There is no drinking water.Prepare for sun exposure. There is no shade.Watch for horseback riders and OHV riders.Emergency vehicle tools are recommended.Observe a 15-mph speed limit on Copperbelt Road.Spark arresters/mufflers required. The sound limit is 96 dB.Stoves are OK.Fire restrictions are sometimes in effect, prohibiting campfires, fireworks, and charcoal grills.Nearby AttractionsWilson Canyon is located near the town of Yerington, Nevada.Along NV-208 throughout the Canyon there are pullouts with historic interpretive signs, wildlife viewing, fishing, and river-access opportunities.Within viewing distance, the Nevada Department of Transportation maintains a rest stop featuring vault toilets, a dumpster, and several picnic tables under cottonwood trees along the river. This area is across the river from the BLM OHV area; visitors must exit onto NV-208 and cross the bridge to access the rest stop.Acros

How to Get There

The BLM-managed portion of Wilson Canyon is located 13 miles west of Yerington, NV along Nevada State Route 208 (NV-208).From Yerington: Drive west on NV-208 for 13 miles through Wilson Canyon. After exiting the canyon but before crossing the West Walker River, turn right onto a dirt road (Copperbelt Drive). The BLM staging and camping area is ½ mile from the turn off.From Smith Valley: Drive east on NV-208 for seven miles. Turn left onto a dirt road (Copperbelt Drive) just after the bridge crossing the West Walker River. The BLM staging and camping area is ½ mile from the turn off.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Wilson Canyon

Heading to Wilson Canyon? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Wilson Canyon?

No central reservation system listed for Wilson Canyon. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/16599) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Wilson Canyon?

The BLM-managed portion of Wilson Canyon is located 13 miles west of Yerington, NV along Nevada State Route 208 (NV-208).From Yerington: Drive west on NV-208 for 13 miles through Wilson Canyon. After exiting the canyon but before crossing the West Walker River, turn right onto a dirt road (Copperbelt Drive). The BLM staging and camping area is ½ mile from the turn off.From Smith Valley: Drive east…

How do I contact Wilson Canyon?

You can reach the park at phone: 775-885-6000 or email: BLM_NV_CCDOwebmail@blm.gov.