Located off of Highway 50 and Sawmill rd. near Meyers California , at the base of the breathtaking Echo Summit sits Washoe Meadows State Park. The undeveloped park encompasses a vast expanse of pristine meadows and lush woodlands, providing a serene retreat for visitors seeking solace from the hustle and bustle of tourism in Lake Tahoe, California.
This protected haven pays homage to the Native Americans who harmoniously inhabited this land for thousands of years. Their rich heritage is preserved within the park’s borders, inviting visitors to connect with the deep-rooted history of the region.
One of the most notable features of Washoe Meadows State Park is its commitment to preserving the land in its natural state. Unlike many developed parks, this sanctuary remains untouched, allowing visitors to revel in the raw beauty. This dedication to preservation ensures that the park’s ecosystems thrive, providing a haven for native flora and fauna.
During our visit to Washoe Meadows State Park in early June, we were surprised to discover a different and unique experience, unlike most other state parks we have previously explored in California. In contrast to the well-defined entrances and prominent signage typically found in developed parks, Washoe Meadows has absolutely none of that!
Without traditional park booths and clearly marked signs, we were stuck in an endless loop of circles until we spotted the holy grail, a modest marker delicately affixed to a tree, merely stating “state park.” Finally, we found it! This subtle indication served as our guide, revealing the elusive path camouflaged within the landscape.
As we walked into the park, our ears filled with the sounds of birds chirping, insects buzzing, and a swarm of flies that are common this time of year. The path is flat and great for hikers of all ages, with views of Angora Peak and Twin Peaks, to name a couple. Stroll along the Upper Truckee River and Angora Creek while birdwatching and taking in the sights.
During summer, the temperature hovers around a comfortable 75 degrees during the day, providing ideal conditions for exploring the park. During winter, the park glitters like a winter wonderland with average temperatures ranging from a high of 40 degrees to a low of 20 degrees. To fully enjoy your short hike into Washoe Meadows State Park, it is advisable to dress appropriately for the ever-changing weather conditions. In summer, lightweight and breathable clothing with comfortable boots or walking shoes works best. During winter, layering is the way to go with warm, waterproof attire with boots and a jacket that will ensure you enjoy your experience in the snowy wonderland.
Washoe Meadows State Park represents more than just a picturesque landscape; it embodies the importance of responsible stewardship and our collective duty to protect our natural treasures. As visitors, we can actively contribute to the preservation effort by adhering to park regulations, cleaning up after ourselves, and respecting the delicate ecosystems that thrive within the park’s boundaries.
Dogs are welcome in designated developed areas within Washoe Meadows State Park. These areas include campsites, paved roads, paths, dirt fire roads, and paved parking areas, allowing visitors to enjoy the park’s amenities while accompanied by their furry companions. Dogs are not permitted on the beaches or dirt trails.
If you’re seeking respite from the bustling tourism of Lake Tahoe, Washoe Meadows State Park offers a tranquil escape to immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of nature. Visitors to Washoe Meadows State Park are encouraged to practice responsible recreation, which includes respecting the park’s guidelines and Leave No Trace principles.
Parking and trailhead for Washoe Meadow State Park
The natural trailhead for Washoe Meadow State Park is located off Lake Tahoe Blvd Approx. 2.5 miles west of the “Y” intersection (HWY 50/SR 89) in South Lake Tahoe. The Gated trailhead is located off the road about 100 feet and is not easy to locate. Look for the Lake Valley Fire District Station, the trail is just prior the station near the intersection with Tahoe Mountain Road.
The author is seriously confused about the location and nature of this California state park. The 1st sentence of the article entirely misleads the reader, the state park is off of US 50, not NV 28 (again, it’s a CA state park, not an NV state park). The 2nd sentence to the article is also misleading; while it is true that much of the state park is undeveloped, it is also a state golf course (yes, you read that right), which is highly developed and covers much of the area that would otherwise naturally be a meadow. Curiously glaring inaccuracies in the very beginning of an article trying to draw readers to this state park.
AC, Thanks for the information. I spoke with the article’s author and agreed to update the information about the location in the article. In the end, we added an appropriate parking and trailhead section to the article. I could not find any information regarding the Golf Course inclusion in the State park on the State website, except a note that there are talks about possibly closing the golf site because of an environmental study on runoff. I appreciate you being an active reader and catching this error and omission.
Thank you for the update on the location. I visited the area and used google to verify the park’s location as I had trouble finding it due to the fact that it is not developed other than the golf course and homes – I was lost! So, it was an honest mistake 🙂 not one at all meant to confuse or mislead anyone.
Great article! I had the pleasure of visiting this state park and it was hard for me to find! Once I did, my family and I had a great time!!
Thanks, Christy. We are happy you enjoyed both the article and the Park.
Appreciate the visit to Sierra Rec Magazine.
Thank you Christy! It’s different isn’t it?! Beautiful all the same though. I’m a sucker for green meadows and flowers 🌸.
For this post, the writer shared THEIR journey to this park, and while there might have been a small mistake on directions, I couldn’t help but feel joyful reading about their adventure. We all make mistakes, let’s not be the type of person who dwells on such trivial errors.
Despite the minor slip-up, the writer’s account of “their” travel resonated with me as a fellow explorer of offbeat paths. As I read their words, I found myself yearning to experience the park’s enchantment firsthand. The vivid descriptions and captivating photos painted a picture that ignited my wanderlust.
Moreover, individuals planning to visit this park would most likely turn to Google for directions (which is not always accurate) to find the correct details and plan . So, let’s not be too disheartened by the initial comment about the mistaken directions. After all, the writer’s post serves as a captivating introduction to an appealing destination.
The prospect of camping near this location excites me, and I can already imagine casting my fishing line into the tranquil waters. The hiking trails beckon with their promise of scenic beauty and invigorating adventures. The writer’s post has piqued my curiosity and added this park to my list of must-visit places.
In conclusion, while it’s essential to strive for accuracy in our writing, it’s important to appreciate the spirit of exploration and adventure conveyed by the writer. Their post invites us to discover the wonders of this park, and despite a minor mistake, it deserves our admiration. So let’s embrace the joy of reading about their journey, and may it inspire us to embark on our own remarkable travels.
Oh thank you for this Sunny! I always try my best to get ppl outdoors with accuracy because ain’t nobody got time to be lost outdoors lol! My fiancé and I circled a few times before we found any markings. Your girl was definitely lost 🤣. On another note, while there are more glorious state parks, this one is lovely for a stroll away from the crowds in Tahoe. We hardly saw anyone else out there save for a few walking around the park. Check it out next time you’re in the area. 🙂
Thank you for the information and we will enjoy a trip to this little park soon!
Never heard of this park and I have been up this way many times. Thanks for the tips on how to enjoy this lovely park. The first comment on this post was kinda rude and self serving. You did great and who cares about a mistake here or there. They will get over it. Google is notorious for sending my family down many rat holes to nowhere! Appreciate you sharing this gem with us!