Have you ever seen a lake that is not surrounded by a single tree?  Pyramid Lake is a place you must see in person to appreciate its uniqueness and vast beauty!  Your trip to Pyramid Lake can be a basic half-day or full day depending on how much of the lake you want to experience.  Or, if you enjoy RVing and camping, you can spend a week or longer.  Located in Nixon, Nevada, Pyramid Lake is about 48 miles northeast of Reno.

Pyramid Lake Tribal permits are required for day use, camping, fishing and boating on the reservation.  Some of the outdoor activities include hiking, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and mountain biking.  Permits may be purchased at the Sutcliff Ranger Station or online at PyramidLake.us/permits. 

Fishing permits are available October 1 through June 20 at https://plpt.nagfa.net/online.  When boating on the lake, you need to use caution; the wind can come up very quickly and the water can become dangerous with unpredictable weather cycles.  For information regarding fishing guides and charters, contact the Pyramid Lake Tribe Tribal Secretary at 755-574-1000 or email:  [email protected].  

There is a Marina in Sutcliffe which has an RV park.  There are also RV parks in nearby Wadsworth.  Past the paved road heading north into the Smoke Creek Desert, there are dirt roads north of Sutcliffe.  However, be well prepared with a map, spare tire and follow the dirt road code in this rugged terrain.

On the east side of the lake, there is a wetlands nature trail by the Numana Hatchery. As you continue on your adventure, you may see many water birds at the Anaho Island National Wildlife.  The refuge birds include the American white pelican, Caspian Tern, Great Blue Heron, Snowy Egret, California Gull, Double Breasted Cormorant and the Black-Crowned Night-Heron.  The 494 square-acre island has almost doubled in size over the past 100 years due to dropping water levels.   There is no public access to the island and boats are not allowed within 1,000 feet of the shoreline. 

Next, you will see the Stone Mother tufa rock formation which resembles a hooded Indian woman with a basket sitting next to her.  And, you’ll get an excellent view of the famous Pyramid rock for which the lake was named. A strongly suggested stop is The Pyramid Paiute and Tribe Museum and visitor’s center located in Nixon.  It features the tribe’s history and culture with interesting displays plus the history of Pyramid Lake.  

Pyramid Lake is truly a must see location!  It is one of the last inland seas from prehistoric time with amazing history and abundant recreation.  You have to see it to believe it.