At the foot of the Virginia Range, on the banks of the Carson River, Dayton State Park is rich in picturesque beauty as well as gold and silver mining history. The park features the remains of the Rock Point Mill built in 1861, a remnant of Dayton’s mining glory days. Old stone walls from the mill, one of the first to process ore from the Comstock Lode, still stand among cottonwood, sagebrush and willows. Originally a Paiute fishing camp, the park provides a scenic site to camp, picnic, hike or hold group outings. Visitors may catch a glimpse of one or more of the hawks, foxes or porcupines that call this beautiful park home.
FACILITIES & AMENITIES
Camping: There are ten campsites at the park that can accommodate 34' RVs, with picnic tables and barbecues. A dump station and restrooms with flush toilets are also available. The camping limit is seven days in a 30-day period.
Group Area: The park features a shaded group-use area with 10 picnic tables, a sink, electricity, a large barbecue, a lawn area and plenty of parking. The area is available by reservation.
Picnicking/Day Use: Several picnic sites are located throughout the park and the cottonwood grove near the old mill site.
Hiking: Two short hikes can take you from the campground to the Carson River or to the Rock Mill Site.