The Underrated State Park That’s One of the Best Camping Spots in Nevada

Hiding just outside the small town of Caliente is one of the most scenic campgrounds in Nevada. Few people seem to even be aware that this park exists. However, it boasts some incredible canyon scenery, and it's an ideal place for setting up camp for a few days. If you're looking for a place far from the crowds at Nevada's more popular campgrounds, you'll definitely want to check out camping at Kershaw-Ryan State Park. Come along as we show you why.

You'll find Kershaw-Ryan State Park tucked in between vibrant canyon walls on the outskirts of Caliente. This place is bursting with natural beauty and history, making it one of Nevada's best-kept secrets. The area was originally settled in the late 1800s by Samuel Kershaw.

Kershaw and his wife were attracted to the area for its incredible lushness and natural springs. In fact, the Kershaws produced several fruit orchards within the canyon that still exist to this day. It's considered one of Nevada's earliest state parks, as the land was donated to the Nevada Parks System in 1935.

Today, the park boasts a uniquely untouched atmosphere, which makes it one of the premier camping spots in the state. The park is best described as an actual oasis in the desert. It's full of green foliage, which makes a stark contrast against the surrounding desert scenery.

The place is covered in manicured lawns and beautiful blossoming rose bushes. It seems almost too good to be true. You'll even find a spring-fed wading pool hiding in the park, which makes for a heavenly respite on a hot Nevada desert day. A volleyball court and horseshoe pit are provided for visitors nearby, as well.

The hiking trails throughout the park are absolutely unreal. The trails take you across various areas of the stunning Rainbow Canyon. The 1.5-mile Overlook Trail offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding region. The canyon is nothing short of stunning, with its seemingly endless scenic views! You may even spot a spring or two cascading from the canyon walls with water so pure you can drink it straight from the source. The park offers a 15-site campground with restrooms, showers, fire pits, and grills.

This little-known gem may not get the attention that nearby Cathedral Gorge State Park does, but it's definitely worthy of becoming one of your favorite spots to get away from reality for a bit. Isn't Kershaw-Ryan State Park camping just the best? For more information, be sure to check out the Nevada State Parks.

While talking about camping, be sure to check out these no-reservation campgrounds in Nevada for more perfect camping destinations.