This month, Washoe Lake and Dayton State Parks invite visitors to explore the desert after dark and discover the pollinators that keep our ecosystems thriving.
Evening Scorpion Hunts at both parks offer a chance to spot glowing scorpions under black lights, while Pollinator Walks at Washoe Lake feature guided tours of a buzzing milkweed patch and a hands-on activity planting native wildflowers to take home.
All programs are open to the public and included with standard park entrance fees: $5 per vehicle for Nevada residents and $10 for out-of-state visitors.
Reservations are required for the Pollinator Walks. Dogs are welcome on leash unless otherwise noted.
Participants should dress for the weather and bring water.
Event Schedule
Scorpion Hunt at Washoe Lake
Saturday, July 12, 2025 | 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Meet at the Equestrian Area, located here just past the campgrounds. Join park staff for a guided night walk using black lights to search for scorpions. Wear close-toed shoes (no sandals, please) and bring water and insect repellant. A limited number of black lights will be available to borrow, but feel free to bring your own.
Pollinator Walks at Washoe Lake State Park – Reservations Required
Sunday, July 13 & 27, 2025 | 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Meet at the Maze parking lot, located here. Explore native milkweed habitats, observe pollinators, and plant mini greenhouses to take home. Reserve by calling (775) 687-4319 or emailing wlsp@parks.nv.gov.
Fish Printing at Washoe Lake State Park
Sunday, July 20, 2025 | 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Drop in at the Maze parking lot, located here, to try Gyotaku, the Japanese art of fish printing. Supplies provided. Paint may stain clothing. Participants are welcome to stop by anytime between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. to make their fish print.
Scorpion Hunt at Dayton State Park
Saturday, July 26, 2025 | 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Meet at the Group Use Pavilion, located here. Learn about scorpions, then take a black light to spot them in their natural habitat. Participants should wear close-toed walking shoes (no sandals, please), dress in layers for the weather, and bring water and insect repellant. A limited number of black lights will be available to borrow, but feel free to bring your own.
