Places to Visit: Silver Springs Nevada

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Silver Springs NV

Make like the pioneers and stop in Silver Springs for refreshment, recreation and historical intrigue. Read More

  • Silver Springs, an historic hitching post, was home to Nevada's first military post at Fort Churchill.
  • Town in conveniently located near Lahontan Reservoir, a popular State Recreation Area.
  • Pony-up to the many historic landmarks, including Buckland Station Inn, which are scattered around town.
  • Located 35 miles east of Carson City, Silver Springs is about 1.5 hour drive from the Lake Tahoe area. 

Overview

Located in Lyon County, Silver Springs, NV ((4209 feet elevation), functioned in its earliest days as a stop on California's Emigrant Trail, on the Pony Express at Buckland Station Inn and on nearby Humboldt and Fremont Trails. These days, this small town serves as a jumping-off point for historical tours and outdoor recreation adventures.

Location

Silver Springs is located about 3/4 of the way from Lake Tahoe to Fallon, NV, at the intersection of US-50 and US-95A. Lahontan Reservoir borders the town to the east with Dead Camel Mountains serving as a back drop. Carson River runs along the southern end of town, with Virginia-Ramsey Range to the north.

Services/Amentities

With fewer than 5,000 people counted in the 2000 census, this small hamlet does offer motel and hotel lodging for those passing through town. Camping is recommended at Fort Churchill (see below). Silver Springs airport services the area.

Attractions

  • Fort Churchill State Historic Park: The ruins of Nevada's first military post rest 8 miles south of town on 3200 acres of protected land along Carson River. At this beautiful park, you can camp, swim, hike, horseback ride and tour the fort and museum. Call (773) 577-2345 for more information.
  • Lahontan State Recreation Area: Located east of town on Carson River, along US-50, the reservoir, with 69 miles of shoreline, is the perfect spot to set-up camp and go fishing, hiking, boating, swimming and hunting. Contact Silver Springs Ranger Station at (775) 577-2235 for more information.

Getting Here

Getting to Silver Springs from Lake Tahoe is easy. Fom Incline Village, NV, head south along the lake, then east to Carson City, and continue on US-50, which takes you to town (about 60 miles one-way).