Dayton State Park

Dayton State Park is a recreation area with a historic mill site in Lyon County, Nevada, stretching approximately 150 acres along the Carson River. It features woodland sections, natural trails through the landscape, and mill ruins including concrete water tanks and stone retaining walls.

The Rock Point Stamp Mill was constructed in 1861 to process silver ore from the Comstock Lode until relocation to Silver City during the 1920s. The mill was the center of mining activity in the region and shaped the area's development.

The land served as a seasonal fishing camp for Paiute communities who gathered near the Carson River during winter months. This historical relationship with the landscape remains part of the area's character today.

The park provides ten camping sites for vehicles up to 34 feet long, each equipped with picnic tables, barbecues, and flush-toilet restrooms. A pedestrian tunnel under U.S. Route 50 connects different areas and offers easy access to the mill ruins.

A pedestrian tunnel beneath U.S. Route 50 connects visitors to the mill ruins in a way that is often overlooked despite being a notable feature of the park layout. This underground passage provides an unexpected way to explore the industrial remnants on foot.

Location: Lyon County

Inception: 1977

Website: http://parks.nv.gov/parks/dayton

GPS coordinates: 39.24830,-119.58900

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:25