Once a working cattle ranch, San Rancho Rafael Park is now Reno’s premier open space. Covering an area of 2,400 square kilometres, the park boasts a mixture of pasture, manicured fields, wetlands, walking and biking trails. This makes it the perfect antidote to the razzmatazz of Reno. A museum, arboretum and botanical gardens are also on site and are open to the public.
Close to the entrance of the park, the former ranch manager’s house and visitor centre can be found. If you have packed a picnic then there are ample facilities here to enjoy your lunch in beautiful surroundings. If you have younger children in your party, there is a play area, and dog owners will appreciate a vast off-lead area.
The area’s rich history and native flora are detailed in the Wilbur D. May Center. In addition, the museum houses a rich and varied collection of artefacts from Nevada and around the world. The adaptations, which allow the local plant species to survive the harsh climate of the region, are well explained in the Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
More activity-oriented visitors will not be disappointed as there is plenty to choose from. Younger visitors will enjoy the Great Basin Adventure theme park, with its log ride, petting zoo, pony rides and discovery centre. They can even have a go at panning for gold! If you enjoy walking, wander among the beautiful array of trees and enjoy the tranquillity at the arboretum. There are tree species from all over the world, and autumn is a particularly spectacular time to visit. More beautiful scenery is to be had on the Peavine Peak side of the park. Take a map with you to ensure you don’t lose your way in the extensive park grounds!
Rancho San Rafael Park is beautiful all year round and every season has something special to offer. It also hosts the Great Reno Balloon Race, which takes place very September.
The park is free to enter and there is car parking at the north and south entrances. The park is located in Truckee Meadows, less two kilometres northwest of the centre of Reno.
