Camping
If you are planning a short stop, you are required to have a permit (available at I-80 Smokeshop in Wadsworth) for pulling off the road for a swim, hiking or just to take a break. However, all beaches surrounding the lake allow overnight tent camping, and permits are required. The cost of a permit, as of September 2009, is $9 per night and includes day use. The marina is equipped for RV parking. The lake has a "Pack In, Pack Out" policy, so bring only what you need, and take it with you when you leave. The east shore of the lake is restricted to day-use only, so there is no camping allowed in that area. Many of the areas on the east shore can only be reached by dirt roads.
I-80 Smokeshop
1000 Smoke Shop Circle
Wadsworth, NV 89442
(775) 575-2181
Pyramid Lake Marina and Store
2500 Lakeview Drive
Reno, NV 89510-8930
(775) 476-1156
Fishing
A tribal fishing permit is required for all anglers. Pyramid Lake species include Lahontan cutthroat trout, Sacramento perch and other fish including rare, endangered cui-ui fish. The cui-ui, which appeared more than two million years ago, is protected by the U.S. government. Good bank fishing areas include the Great Stone Mother, Warrior Point, L.A. Rock, Sandhole Beach and Popcorn Beach. Trout season is from Oct. 1 to June 30, and perch can be taken all year.
Boating and Swimming
A boat launch is located on the west side of Pyramid Lake and a number of outfitters offer guide services. Boaters are not permitted to land on Anaho Island, nor can they be within 500 feet of the shore. Wizard Cove on the northwest shore is also closed to public access, as are other areas holding bird populations. The Pyramid Lake Store has supplies and tackle available for purchase.
Pyramid Lake Store
29555 Pyramid Lake Road
Sutcliffe, NV 89510-9725
(775) 476-0555
Birdwatching
The east side of Pyramid Lake gives easy access by unpaved roads to points of interest to sightseers, bird-watchers and photographers. The pyramid-shaped rock that the lake was named for is near Red Bay just off the east shore. Anaho Island National Wildlife Refuge is a large island that houses a colony of American white pelicans, snowy egrets, California gulls, great blue herons and Caspian terns.
Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge Complex
1000 Auction Road
Fallon, NV 89406
(775) 423-5128
fws.gov
Hazards
Pyramid Lake is centered in a harsh outdoor environment, prompting the need for a few warnings. Remember to use common sense when on or near the water. There are no lifeguards available and the lake has sudden drop offs near the shore. If you cannot swim, do not get into the water. Drownings are not unheard of at the lake. Sudden changes in weather can be treacherous, also, with high winds and thunderstorms bringing danger. On windy days, do not try to go boating. Drowning is possible if you should capsize.
Burining Man Festival
The Burning Man Festival is held each year in Black Rock City. The month-long festival held in late summer encourages tent-camping in and around Pyramid Lake, and the area is filled with a community of resourcefulness. It serves as a reminder that even though there is water all around, there is little or no vegetation and temperatures climb high in the summer.
Burning Man Festival
(415) TO-FLAME
burningman.com
