Lake with ducks and swam

Walker Lake Vacation Rentals

Walker Lake

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Walker Lake
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Why Rent On Walker Lake

Walker Lake, a serene desert oasis in Nevada, beckons with its turquoise waters and majestic mountain backdrop. This natural haven is a paradise for adventure travelers, wellness seekers, and families alike. Here, you can indulge in fishing, boating, and camping, or explore the rich historical tapestry of the area.

Nearby, the Hawthorne Ordnance Museum offers a glimpse into the region’s military past, while the Mineral County Museum delves into the local history and cultural heritage. The Historic Fort Churchill State Historic Park and the ghost town of Hawthorne are must-visit destinations for history buffs. For those seeking more leisurely activities, the Walker Lake Golf Course provides a challenging yet scenic round of golf.

Wellness seekers can unwind at the Travertine Hot Spring, while families can enjoy the expansive outdoor recreational opportunities at the Walker Lake Recreation Area. The area is also dotted with historic landmarks like the Bodie State Historic Park and the Methdodist Church, adding layers of depth to your travel experience. Whether you are in pursuit of outdoor adventures, historical exploration, or simple relaxation, Walker Lake has something to offer every kind of traveler.

Best time to go
Visit Walker Lake in late spring, from May to early June, when wildflowers bloom and warm breezes dance upon the water. With optimal fishing conditions, fewer tourists, and evenings kissed with golden sunsets, it’s a serene paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Water Quality
Walker Lake's water exhibits a deep blue hue, reflecting its high salinity and mineral content. The water clarity is murky, with high levels of dissolved solids making it opaque and unsuitable for swimming.
Surface area (mi)
80.78
Max depth (ft)
68.01
Elevation (ft)
3959.97

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Ice Skating
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Walker Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, it is not safe to swim in Walker Lake. The lake water is highly mineralized and salty, with very high levels of Total Dissolved Solids, which degrades the water quality and makes swimming less common and not recommended.

  • Walker Lake is a popular destination because it offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy boating, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, and hiking. The area is also great for bird watching, with over 10,000 water birds and various raptors, and it has extensive trails for off-roading and OHV excursions.

  • The daily catch limit for fishing in Walker Lake, Nevada, is five trout with no size restrictions. This applies year-round, but fishing conditions can be toughest during the summer months when trout suspend in deeper water. Anglers must have a Nevada fishing license and a Nevada Trout Stamp to fish there.

  • The best beach for families at Walker Lake is Sportsman’s Beach. It is part of the BLM-managed area and offers a more secluded and calm environment. Additionally, the area includes other family-friendly spots like Tamarack Beach and 20-Mile Beach, but Sportsman’s Beach is often preferred for its accessibility and quieter atmosphere.

  • Towns near Walker Lake include Hawthorne, Schurz, Luning, and Mina. These towns are all located in Mineral County, Nevada. Hawthorne is the largest of these with a population of 19,635.