Witness A Millionaire's Creation During the Comstock Load Mining Boom and Enjoy Beautiful Grounds at Bowers Mansion Regional Park

4005 Bowers Mansion Rd

New Washoe City, NV 89704

775-849-0201

Website

Pavilion Reservations

Pool Info.

Facebook

Upcoming Event: Bowers Bluegrass Festival (August 24-27, 2023)

Purchase Tickets

Nestled among the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains is Bowers Mansion Regional Park, only 15 minutes away from South Reno on the way to Carson City. For 100+ years, people have been visiting this park for its scenic views, swimming pool, mansion, beautiful grounds, history, events, outdoor recreational activities, and more. *Experience a pleasant picnic under towering shade trees *Swim in a secluded pool in the middle of nature *Rent out one of the pavilions for life's special occasions *Take in a piece of history through educational plaques and tours in the most elegant building of its time *Let the children run wild and free while exploring, swinging, sliding, and climbing at the playground I'm so thankful to have such a special and beautiful park nearby—a place that has served and continues to be the perfect spot to learn, have fun, grow, live life to the fullest, and create precious moments.

2020 hours of operation.  Opening + closing dates are around the same time every year.

Bower's Mansion Tours

Take a trip back in history and walk in the shoes of past millionaires Eilley & Sandy Bowers with a guided tour offered seasonally, usually from Memorial Day through Nevada Day. 

I have yet to take it, but from what I've researched, it's popular and led by people who tell the story of the mansion in an entertaining manner (such as the person in the walk-through video tour below).

The park usually hosts special events like Programs on the Porch (free live music), a Civil War event, & more.

Notes

-49-acre park  

-No pets allowed due to historical significance, except for service animals  

-Plenty of day-use picnic tables with BBQ grills available on a first-come, first-served basis

-Two pavilions, Comstock Picnic Pavilion and Washoe Picnic Pavilion, are located at each end of the park, ideal for special events like weddings. Horseshoe pits and volleyball courts are next to each pavilion

-Two partially shaded play structures are situated at each end of the park

-Plenty of grassy areas available 

-A trail behind the mansion leads to stunning views of Washoe Lake and the Bower family cemetery, accessible via a short dirt trail with stairs (less than 5 minutes)  

-The swimming pool keeps a lane open for lap swimmers, and there’s a new gated splash pad for toddlers with easy entry ladders and a hydraulic lift 

-The park features many trees that change color in the fall, making it an amazing spot for photos  

-Great shade during summer

-Davis Creek Regional Park is just a couple of minutes away, offering family-friendly trails (ranging from easy to difficult), camping grounds, picnic areas, and fishing spots when water levels permit 

-I love taking my kids to the Chocolate Nugget Factory for ice cream sundaes and treats after a fun-filled day, only about 5 minutes down the street

-The park is surrounded by farmlands, making it easy to drive around Washoe Lake and spot various farm animals

-Flushable toilets available 

-Huge parking lots are located on each side of the park

My kids learned how to bike here.

Photography 

©Katherine Fung,

All rights reserved.

***Information subject to change.  All opinions are my own. 

categorized under "Parks and Playgrounds, Picnic Spots & Birthday/Event Venues"

Arrowcreek Park- A Small Great Park with Unique Play Structures, Great Views, and Access to Lower Thomas Creek Trail

2950 Arrowcreek Parkway

Reno, NV 89511

Park Ranger Office: (775) 849-2511

Washoe County Parks Facebook

A Complete Directory of all Parks in Reno

Arrowcreek Park is nestled at a slightly higher elevation, offering stunning mountain views that make it a hidden gem. While it may not be the largest park, it truly delivers with fantastic play structures, a short scenic loop, and a delightful park vibe.

Arrowcreek Park isn’t widely known, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking a quieter spot. As one of the newer parks in the area, it features modern play equipment suitable for all ages, including both large and small play structures, bouncy seats, a climbing structure, a merry-go-round, and imaginative play features.

From the grassy area, you can soak in gorgeous views of aspens lining Lower Thomas Creek.  The hilly terrain adds a fun twist compared to the usual flat grassy spaces, making it perfect for keeping an eye on the kids as they play below.

Arrowcreek Park is beautifully maintained, making it a great spot to visit year-round. I recommend checking it out in the fall for breathtaking foliage, in spring when the wildflowers bloom, or in winter when the sun shines pleasantly on the snow-capped mountains.

If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy the area, my family often hikes a portion of the Lower Thomas Creek trail. We make our way to two large round containers (you can’t miss them) and then take a left on the flat dirt road back to the park. After about five minutes down, you’ll see the pavilion and can head back to the park.

The trail is soothing, with the sound of the creek running alongside it, and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains in winter and vibrant fall leaves. It’s a short yet sweet trail that we love returning to time and again.

Click to Enlarge. The Lower Thomas Creek loop takes about 15-25 minutes. Start at Arrowcreek Park and follow the dotted line to the two white circles on the map, then turn left onto the dirt road back to the park.

Winter at Arrowcreek Park

If you're looking for a longer trek, Lower Thomas Creek Trail - 4.7-mile out-and-back trail best used from March until October (snow accumulation in the winter can make hiking difficult).

Lower Thomas Creek Out and Back Trail

Notes

-11 acres

-AccuWeather for hourly weather (temperature, wind, sun intensity, and precipitation) 

- In early spring, the trail can be covered in snow, leading to some slippery spots. In late spring, snowmelt can make the trail muddy.

-No restrooms available at the park

-BBQ & pavilion available on a first come, first served basis

-A few picnic tables and benches are spread throughout the park.

-Enjoy great views of the mountains.

-The park is great for photography, especially in the fall and spring (wildflowers).

-Download the AllTrails app to access more information, reviews, pictures, and directions for Lower Thomas Creek Trail. You can track yourself on their trail maps, reducing the risk of getting lost. Trail access is at the top of the grassy area of the park—look for the sign behind the bush.

-Horseback riding friendly.  Equestrian parking available.

-I like to bring my portable travel potty and liners everywhere I go, especially to parks without restrooms, so the kids can play without having to leave to find a toilet.

-Visit early in the morning or at sunset during hot summers.

Categorized under "Parks and Playgrounds" and "Family Friendly Hikes"

*Information subject to change. All opinion are my own.

Photography

© Katherine Fung

All rights reserved.

Phillip Annie Callahan Park- A Close Getaway Within Arms Reach

15960 Callahan Road

Reno, NV 89511

Park Ranger Office: 

(775) 849-2511

Website

Phillip Annie Callahan Park is a hidden gem tucked away in a serene forest next to Mt. Rose Highway. I stumbled upon this park while searching for family-friendly spots to enjoy during the summer. I couldn’t believe such a beautiful place had remained a secret for so long. Over the years I’ve been visiting, it’s always been a low-key and peaceful retreat, likely because many people head straight to the nearby Galena Regional Park instead.

Although it’s on the smaller side, the park is packed with charm. It features a pavilion, limited paved pathways, two play structures, some grassy areas, and a handful of picnic tables. 

A lovely creek runs alongside the park, providing a refreshing alternative to swimming, especially during those hot summer days.  One of my family's favorite activities is bringing along floating toys like rubber ducks or toy boats and watching them float down the creek. 

Shade is abundant here, and there’s a short loop trail perfect for beginner hikers, all while being serenaded by the soothing sounds of the creek. There’s truly nothing better than hiking in the shade with the gentle sound of water nearby.

To access the short loop, head past the end of the paved path into the dirt area and towards the forest. Keep going until you find a bridge, then turn right onto the bridge (picture) that leads back to Callahan Park. The trail ends at the parking lot for the Galena Creek Trail, which is just a short walk from the park.  The short loop is simple, short, and sweet.

This charming park is a go-to for summer fun, hiking, picnicking, and small gatherings. 

Access Galena Creek Trail from the park. 4.7 mile Out and Back. 774 ft. elevation gain.

History 

Phillip and Annie Callahan Park is a hidden gem honoring the Callahan family, who donated 25 acres for its creation. The park's history dates back to Nevada’s early settlement, particularly during the Comstock Lode boom in nearby Virginia City. Matthew Callahan arrived in 1863 from England, establishing a brickyard that supplied bricks for significant local structures. When demand for bricks declined, the family shifted to dairy farming in Galena, producing a variety of crops and fruits.

Phil Callahan, Matthew’s son, helped establish a school in Galena using materials from their land. The historic Galena Creek Schoolhouse, now part of the park and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was once home to Nevada's famous poet Joanne de Longchamps. Today, as you explore the park, you can appreciate its serene beauty while reflecting on its rich history.

Notes

-Beautiful golden foliage in the fall

-Ample shade in the summer

-Small play structure is shaded; the larger one has partial shade, with swings for both big and small kids

-Wildflowers & wildlife

-Ideal for picnics and photo shoots

-The downward slope pathway next to the parking lot is a favorite spot for kids to ride their plasma cars & bikes

-Horse and dog-friendly, with poop bags available at the parking lot

-Mountain biking paths and horseshoe pits available

-The pavilion includes a BBQ pit and is available on a first-come, first-served basis

-Water fountain and benches available throughout the park

-Download the AllTrails app for detailed reviews, trail information, photos, and directions to Galena Creek Trail. The app also helps navigate so you won’t get lost.

-While there are no restrooms at the park, you can find a porta-potty at the Galena Creek Trailhead, just a two-minute walk toward Mt. Rose Highway. 

Categorized under Parks and Playgrounds, Family Friendly Hiking and Picnic Spots

El Dorado Orchards - Beat the Crowds, Have a Picnic, and Take A Scenic Train Ride

2881 North Canyon Rd.
Camino, CA 95709

Directions

Website

2024 Apple Hill Visitor's Guide

One fall,  I was soaking up those cozy autumn vibes, admiring the stunning scenery around me while searching for fun fall activities in Reno. Of course, Google led me straight to what I was looking for.

One of the top suggestions was Apple Hill, just a scenic two-hour drive from Reno. With over 50 farms nestled in Placerville, CA, it sounded like Disneyland to me—everything I could want for a perfect day out.

I’m a sucker for beautiful views, road trips, farms, and all things apple-related, so I knew this trip would be a win for my family and me. As a mom of three, I always try to plan ahead to ensure our outings go smoothly. I looked up which farms would be best for kids, and El Dorado Orchards popped up as a must-visit spot, offering face painting, delicious apple treats, a craft fair, and a scenic train ride.

El Dorado did not disappoint. On our first visit, the kids got their faces painted by a friendly young lady and enjoyed a train ride around two lovely ponds surrounded by vibrant fall foliage. The ride may not have been as long as we had hoped, but we still make it a tradition to return every season because it’s just that special.

This charming little farm is tucked away next to the busier BOA Vista and High Hill Ranch, making it a perfect escape from the crowds. If you’re looking for a place to picnic, relax, shop, and enjoy some apple goodies, I can’t recommend El Dorado Orchards enough.

Notes
-Family-owned and operated
-Hot dogs and hot sandwiches available for $6-$11
-Train rides were $5/person on our visit
-Though it’s a small farm, it packs a punch with a craft fair, hot lunch, apple treats, face painting, and train rides
-The scenery alone keeps me coming back for more 
-They offer pies, brownies, caramel apples, cookies, cider, apple cider milkshakes, and jams, but no donuts—head to BOA Vista Orchards just a minute up the road for those.
-Plenty of tables and benches on grassy areas with tall trees providing shade, perfect for picnics
-Restrooms available
-Plenty of parking on site

***Information subject to change.  All opionions are my own. 

Photography

© Katherine Fung,

All Rights Reserved.

Categorized under Seasonal/Holidays ---> Apple Hill Grower's Association

Hidden Gem - Crystal Peak Park, Verdi.

561 Crystal Park Road

Verdi, NV 89439

Park Ranger Office: 

(775) 828-6612

Website 
Trail Map

One of the things I love most about living in Reno is how close we are to breathtaking natural beauty, and Crystal Peak Park is the perfect example of that. Just 10 miles from Reno, this gorgeous park is tucked between mountains and the Truckee River, making it a great little escape.

What Makes This Park Special

-Shade from beautiful, tall trees

-A scenic 0.5-mile nature trail that loops alongside the Truckee River

-Two fishing ponds (stocked with Lahontan Cutthroat Trout)

-Boulders for climbing adventures

-Grassy picnic areas with BBQ facilities

-Restrooms 

-Interpretive signs with cool facts about the area

-Nearby trails perfect for hikers and cyclists

From 1923 to 1938, Crystal Peak Park in Verdi was home to the Verdi Glen Resort, a beloved stop for commuters back in the day. Today, you can still explore remnants of that history, including pieces of the Verdi Lumber Company, which started operations here way back in 1860. The sawmill played a major role in helping build Virginia City and the railroad tracks that connected the region, adding a rich historical layer to your visit.

But history isn't the only draw. Crystal Peak Park is also a must-visit for anyone with a love for rockhounding. The park, named after the majestic peak towering behind it, is a haven for quartz hunters. If you're ready to dig in, bring a shovel—there are quartz deposits waiting to be uncovered. For the adventurous, the peak itself is about 11 miles up a one-way dirt road with some incredible scenic pull-over spots to soak in the view.

I’ll be honest, my attempt to reach the peak in a minivan was... a bit of an adventure. The last three miles are full of deep ruts and uneven terrain, so if you're planning to tackle this route, an off-roading vehicle or SUV is the way to go. While I didn't make it to the top, the drive was still full of breathtaking views and the thrill of the journey.

If you’re lucky enough to reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. 

Whether you’re here for a bit of history, an adventure in quartz hunting, or just a peaceful day outdoors by the river, Crystal Peak Park has something for everyone. The combination of rich history, natural beauty, and outdoor activities makes it a true gem just a short distance from Reno. 

Notes

-Paved parking lot with easy access to the main trailhead

-Group areas available on a first-come, first-served basis—no reservations needed

-Ideal for family outings, nature lovers, and history buffs alike

Categorized under "Family Friendly Hikes, Picnic Spots, Parks and Playgrounds"