Winnemucca Dunes Recreation Area

Come and experience the LARGEST sand dune in Nevada!
Trail Uses
Utv/jeep driving Atv riding Dirt biking
Location
Humboldt County
Town
Winnemucca
Surface
Sand
Pets
Permitted on Leash
Fees
No

Description

The dunes are located on a “checkerboard” of public and private land. While all individual dunes are less than 100-foot-tall, this “low-lying” dune field stretches approximately 20 miles east to west. Visitors can enjoy camping, off-highway vehicle riding (OHV), hiking, photography and more on the scenic backdrop of the dune fields.

From the staging area on the East side, the dunes stretch over a 40 square mile area, for about 14 miles Westward.  Additional dunes are interspersed among low sage hills over an even wider surrounding area. With no fee station and plenty of space to recreate, this is one of the region’s most popular OHV play areas.

Please note that OHV use is restricted to designated roads when travelling off of the dunes. Private property and highway right-of-way abuts the recreation areas, so please be mindful of boundaries and signage.

Other Information

Know Before You Go:

  • Respect private property. Some of the sand dune areas are private land.
  • Picnic tables are first-come, first-served.
  • Vegetation is fragile. Stay off the vegetation.
  • Watch for high-speed OHV riders.
  • Spark arresters/mufflers required. The sound limit is 96 dB.
  • Whip flags (8 ft) are required for OHVs
  • Cell service may be limited.
  • There is no drinking water.
  • Prepare for sun exposure.
  • Emergency vehicle tools are recommended.
  • Dogs off-leash are allowed.
  • Be prepared to pack out and dispose of pet litter and trash.

For lodging and activities information visit the City of Winnemucca's website. 

Trail Manager

For more information visit the Winnemucca BLM website or contact:

Bureau of Land Management - Winnemucca District Office

Bureau of Land Management - Winnemucca District Office
5100 East Winnemucca Blvd.
Winnemucca, Nevada 89445
Phone: 775-623-1500
wfoweb@blm.gov
View website

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Be prepared for extreme weather. Bring rain/wind gear, warm clothing, and matches/fire starters.
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Trailhead Information

From downtown Winnemucca via Merlarkey Street/US-95 North:

  • Head North on US-95 North/Melarkey Street for 8 miles.
  • Turn left (West) into Winnemucca Dunes Recreation Area.
  • Staging areas can be found around the kiosk.
Click on a parking icon to get custom directions
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