Driving in the Black Rock Region

The Black Rock Desert and its great playa may look like a place for all-out cross-country travel. The reality is that many parts of the area and the playa are sensitive and are now showing signs of degradation that could become permanent. The degradation is caused largely because of the popularity of recreational vehicles, which has increased to staggering proportions in the past decade. Motorcycles, dune buggies, all-terrain vehicles, jeep-type vehicles, pickups, campers and passenger cars can all fit the recreational vehicle classification. Indiscriminate use of off-highway vehicles has resulted in restrictions and closures in other areas.

Noise, dust and visual impacts are often cited as the most objectionable characteristics of off-highway vehicle use. These impacts can have a detrimental effect on wildlife, plants, water and air quality, and other resources. The BLM asks you to follow these suggestions to reduce or eliminate impacts to this area.

TREAD LIGHTLY!

• Travel only where motorized vehicles are permitted.

• Respect the rights of others to enjoy their activities undisturbed.

• Educate yourself by obtaining maps and regulations. Comply with signs and barriers, and ask owner's permission to cross or use private property, such as Double Hot Springs, which is private land surrounded by public land.

• Avoid streams, meadows, muddy roads and trails, springs and stream habitat, steep hillsides, wildlife and livestock.

• Drive and travel responsibly to protect the environment and preserve opportunities to enjoy motorized vehicle use on public lands.

CAUTION NOTES ABOUT the BLACK ROCK DESERT

Beware of driving on the playa when the surface appears to be dry; it may be wet and impassable beneath the crust. The mud is so sticky that vehicles have had to be abandoned and dug out later in the dry season. Times to be wary are during the winter and spring when rain and runoff onto the playa is greatest. Some areas stay wet into summer, too. Check with business establishments in Gerlach for up-to-date conditions.

It is tempting to drive fast on the Black Rock playa. But, it is very easy to lose control of your vehicle. Lack of visibility in dusty conditions can cause collisions.

Many side roads and trails are not maintained and are seldom traveled. Use the buddy system and avoid traveling solo in areas where help may not be available.

Fuel and supplies are available at Gerlach, Cedarville, Lovelock and Winnemucca. Although each has some medical facilities, the nearest full-scale medical facilities are in Reno.

Unattended buildings at Stevens Camp, High Rock Lake, Conlin Cabin and other locations can serve as havens if you become stranded in bad weather. Take care of these buildings so that others might use them.

BACK-COUNTRY TIPS for the BLACK ROCK

This is high-elevation, cold desert country -- even in summer. Evaporation rates are high and the wind is extremely chaffing. The high elevation receives more intense ultra-violet radiation than lower elevation areas.

• High-rated sunscreen and lip protection are necessary for everyone.

• Check your vehicle to make sure it is road ready for rough conditions.

• Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.

• Maintain a clean, safe camp. Locate your camp at least 200 feet (70 adult steps) from water sources.

• Hot springs should be avoided.  Some are hot enough to kill.

• Do not bathe, or wash dishes or clothing, in streams. Some hot springs contain endangered fish and soap may kill them.

• A first aid kit, shovel and extra food, clothing, water and gas are essential items.

• Avoid damage to trees and vegetation.

• A map of the area you visit and a compass could save your life.

• Keep children and pets under observation at all times.

• Please observe all fire restrictions

• Gun use requires the utmost safety and noise consideration for others camped nearby. Shoot in carefully selected target areas. Shooting while out on the playa can have grave consequences--keep in mind it is flat for miles and even a .22-caliber bullet can travel well over a mile.

• Not all the land is public. The Black Rock Desert region has several privately owned ranches and tracts of land. Respect private property and signs. Private landowners are not prepared to offer automotive/tourist services, towing, fuel and repairs.

Bureau of Land Management
Winnemucca Field Office
5100 E. Winnemucca Blvd.
Winnemucca NV 89445
(775) 623-1500