Take A Short and Scenic Stroll by the Truckee River at the Oxbow Nature Study Center

3100 Dickerson Road

Reno NV 89503

Hours: 
Open Year-Round from 8AM to 4pm

(The gates close, so make sure to head out before they lock up.)

Website
Yelp

Oxbow Nature Study Area is a 22-acre conservation spot in Reno, perfect for families or anyone looking to escape into nature without actually leaving the city.

Highlights

-Beautiful scenery

-Tranquility

-Wildlife

-Picnic-worthy spots

-Soothing sounds of nature

-Fun 0.8-mile loop trail

-Partial shade from trees

-Right next to the Truckee River

-Visitor’s center

When I first visited this park years ago, I immediately fell in love with the whole vibe. The towering trees, the winding ramps, the interpretive signs that make you pause and learn something new, the visitor center, wildlife, picnic tables, and the peaceful sounds of nature—all nestled right by the Truckee River. 

Growing up, some of my best memories were with my grandma, walking in parks near my house. We'd sit around, relax, snack, and just enjoy being together. Those were the moments of peace and connection that I knew I wanted to share with my own kids.

Parks like Oxbow have become my favorite for that reason—they’re the perfect backdrop for building memories, just like the ones I had with my grandparents.

The Oxbow Nature Study Area is truly the best place for a quick escape from the city. It’s somewhere you can just relax, take a breath, and really soak in Reno’s natural beauty.

NOTES

-No dogs allowed

-Restrooms and a water fountain are available during park hours

-Benches are scattered around the visitor's center & along the trail, with a couple right by the river. 

-To get to the deck by the river, take the path all the way to the left, opposite of the education exhibit next to the observation deck

-The trail has lots of shady spots, which is a huge plus, especially during Reno’s hot summers 

-I had no issues navigating the trail with my stroller, but after rain, it can get a bit muddy. Toward the end of the trail, there’s a log bridge that isn’t stroller or wheelchair-friendly, so it’s best to turn back before that

Pictures taken during winter, 2020

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