Discover Tranquil Beauty at Cave Lake State Park, Nevada
Cave Lake State Park sits in the Schell Creek Range of Northern Nevada, about 15 to 16 miles from Ely. The 32-acre reservoir is surrounded by more than 4,000 acres of wilderness. Visitors can enjoy clear water, great trout fishing, and beautiful views. It’s a peaceful spot for anyone who wants to get away from busy tourist areas.
You can visit Cave Lake any time of year for camping, fishing, or winter fun. The park reopened in June 2025 after major restoration, so you’ll find updated facilities and plenty to do.
Prime Fishing and Boating on a Peaceful Reservoir
Cave Lake is a great spot for fishing. The lake has native German brown trout and is often stocked with rainbow trout. You can fish from the shore or a boat using PowerBait, spinners, nightcrawlers, or other baits. Remember, you need a valid Nevada fishing license.
Boating is allowed, but you must keep your speed at 5 mph or less. High-speed water sports and jet skis are not allowed, which helps keep things calm and family-friendly. The boat ramp and dock have been upgraded recently.
Tip: The best fishing is in spring and early summer after the lake is stocked. In the fall, you’ll find cooler water and colorful autumn scenery.
Cave Lake features two excellent campgrounds:
- Elk Flat Campground: Located near the entrance, this seasonal site (typically early May to mid-October) offers level sites with fire pits, grills, and tables. Flush toilets and showers are available during open season.
- Lake View Campground: Positioned closer to the lake and open year-round (weather permitting), it provides similar amenities with stunning views.
The campsites are roomy and work for tents, trucks, and small RVs. Most are first-come, first-served, but you can reserve some group sites through Nevada State Parks. There’s a 7-day stay limit in any 30-day period to make sure everyone gets a chance to visit.
Current Fees (per vehicle):
- Day use: $5 NV / $10 Non-NV
- Camping: $15 NV / $20 Non-NV per night
- Camping + boat: $20 NV / $25 Non-NV
You can also rent a yurt. Contact the park directly for details and to check availability.
Day Use, Picnicking, and Hiking Trails
If you’re visiting for the day, there are two picnic areas by the lake with tables, grills, restrooms, and drinking water. You’ll pay a small entrance fee per vehicle at the kiosk.
The park maintains several hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous:
- Steptoe Creek Trail — Easy 3-mile round trip
- Cave Springs Trail — Moderate 5-mile hike
- Cave Lake Overlook Trail — Strenuous 4.5-mile loop
- Twisted Pines Trail — Newer moderate connector trail
Along these trails, you might see wildlife like mule deer, elk, hawks, and different songbirds.
Winter Wonders: Ice Fishing, Snow Sports & the Fire & Ice Festival
Cave Lake is open all year. In winter, the park becomes a snowy playground. People enjoy ice fishing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and snowmobiling on approved dirt roads.
The biggest winter event is the annual White Pine Fire & Ice Festival, usually held in mid to late January. The festival includes ice carving contests, ice skating, guided hikes, ice games like bowling, horseshoes, and disc golf, plus campfires and fireworks. It’s a great time to visit Ely and Cave Lake.
Weather tip: Snow is common from December to early April. The park roads are plowed, but it’s best to have a four-wheel drive vehicle.
Nearby Attractions in Ely, Nevada
Base your trip in Ely, which offers motels, restaurants, and the Nevada Northern Railway Museum. Consider staying in Ely, where you’ll find motels, restaurants, and the Nevada Northern Railway Museum. This museum brings early-1900s railroading to life through steam train rides and tours. It’s a great addition to your Cave Lake trip.
FAQ: Cave Lake State Park
Is Cave Lake State Park open year-round?
Yes, the park is open 365 days a year, though some facilities and campgrounds may close seasonally due to weather.
Are reservations required for camping?
Most sites are first-come, first-served. Reservations are available for some group sites and can be made in advance via the Nevada State Parks reservation system.
What fish are in Cave Lake?
Primarily rainbow trout (stocked) and German brown trout. Fishing is allowed 24 hours with a valid license.
Is swimming allowed?
Yes, swimming is permitted in the reservoir during warmer months.
Are there showers and flush toilets?
Yes, both campgrounds offer these amenities when open. Winter conditions may affect availability.
Can I bring my boat?
Yes, motorized boats are allowed at no-wake speeds (5 mph). A separate boat launch fee applies.
What should I bring for winter visits?
Warm layers, snow gear, chains or 4WD, and check road conditions. Ice thickness can reach 24 inches in peak winter.
Plan Your Visit to Cave Lake State Park
To get to the park from Ely, take US-93 to Success Summit Road. The drive is about 15-19 miles. The park is remote but easy to reach, making it a great place for a relaxing trip with beautiful scenery, good fishing, and fun outdoor activities.
Spend a quiet morning fishing for trout, hiking the scenic trails, or making memories at the Fire & Ice Festival. Cave Lake State Park offers some of the best wilderness experiences in Nevada.