Reno’s Rancho San Rafael Regional Park spans 600 acres northwest of downtown Reno. Rancho San Rafael Park includes acres of grassy fields, wetlands, wilderness areas, profitable picnic shelters, nature and walking trails, playground, and a huge dog park. Rancho San Rafael Park is home to the Wilbur D. May Center, which includes the May Museum, the May Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, and a restored home that can be rented for events and meetings. Rancho San Rafael Regional Park is home to one of Reno’s most popular events – the Great Reno Balloon Race.
What to do in Rancho San Rafael regional park
Rancho San Rafael Regional Park has restroom facilities, four group picnic areas, individual picnic sites, hiking and biking trails, a large dog park, the Mayo Museum, and the Mayo Arboretum and Botanical Garden. There are acres of fields for all kinds of activities. The northern part of the park is next to Peavine Peak and is surrounded by hiking and biking trails. There is no fee to enter the park and there are many parking lots near the north and south entrances.
The dog park at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park is huge. If you want your dog to have plenty of room to run, this is the place for you.
Events at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
One of Reno’s signature events, the Great Reno Balloon Race, takes place every September at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park. This is one of the largest hot air balloon festivals in the country and it is free. You have to get up early to see the best things, but it’s worth it.
Wilbur D. May Center
The Wilbur D. May Center is the legacy of this Nevada businessman, rancher, and philanthropist. Includes the May Museum and the May Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. The old ranch house has been restored and is available for meetings and events. Call (775) 785-4707 for more information on the Wilbur D. May Center.
The Museo de Mayo has a gift shop and presents programs and exhibits throughout the year. The May Collection contains items brought to Reno from Wilbur May’s many world travels. The covered Garden Court features a waterfall, ponds and tropical plants. It is available for weddings, private parties, receptions and other events. Hours change with the season and rates vary with exhibits. Call the museum at (775) 785-5961.
The May Arboretum & Botanical Garden is also open year round, providing a peaceful and beautiful place to walk and enjoy nature within the city. You will learn about native Nevada plants and see other plants and trees from around the world. It is especially beautiful in the fall. For information on the May Arboretum, call (775) 785-4153.
Location of Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
Rancho San Rafael Regional Park is at 1595 N. Sierra Street. The main entrance from N. Sierra Street is west of the UNR campus and takes you to San Rafael Drive, which runs along the south side of the park. From this street, you can access the main features such as the May Arboretum, the May Museum, the playground, and various picnic areas. Other entrances to the south are from Coleman Drive and Washington Street. The northern area of the park is reached from N. Virginia Street, north of McCarran Blvd. Enter the parking area where you will see a sign for the Reno Softball Complex.
The phone number for the park office is (775) 785-4512.
For more information, you can download the Washoe County Parks and Open Spaces Guide or pick up a copy the next time you visit one of the parks.
