Safety Information

Please recreate responsibly and protect public land resources and your recreation opportunities. There are over 900 miles of designated roads and trails in the National Conservation Area that are available for your use. Careless Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) behavior is the major cause of negative publicity towards OHV use and can cause damage to resources and jeopardize safety. Inconsiderate OHV use can cause thousands of acres to be closed to the enjoyment of all visitors.

Things You Should Know

• The playa is open for use by OHVs; visitors can drive anywhere on the flat and un-vegetated playa. Playa Hazards
• The dunes and hummocks surrounding the playa are closed.
• Off of the playa, vehicle travel is allowed only on the designated roads and trails shown on the transportation maps.
• Wilderness areas are closed to OHV use.
• Fires on the playa and adjacent dune areas require a surface protection device, such as an elevated platform, open grill, fire blanket, or fire pan.

Wilderness Boundaries and Wilderness Access Roads

Ten wilderness areas were designated in 2000 in the Black Rock region. On the maps, it might appear as though some of them touch. The wilderness areas that seem to touch are actually separated by roads that are not part of the wilderness areas. The same is true for several “cherry stem” roads that allow access to the interior of the wilderness areas. Since these roads are not part of the wilderness areas they separate or penetrate, they are open for vehicle use. For example, the road through High Rock Canyon separates the High Rock Canyon Wilderness Area from the East Fork High Rock Canyon Wilderness Area. Only designated routes (shown in green) are open. Wilderness Access routes are marked open with signs.

High Rock Canyon Seasonal Road Closure

The road through High Rock Canyon is closed from the end of the Chukar hunting season (about the first of February) until the second weekend in May.

This closure is to prevent disturbance during the raptor breeding and bighorn sheep lambing seasons, and to prevent damage to the road and emigrant trail through the canyon.

TIPS FOR DRIVING IN BLACKROCK COUNTRY

Come Prepared –This is a very remote region. There are no services in the NCA. Fuel, food and supplies are only available in Gerlach, Wadsworth, Nixon, Empire, Cedarville, Lovelock, and Winnemucca. The Soldier Meadows Guest Ranch provides food and lodging with advanced registration. Always travel with a full-size spare tire (at least 6-ply is recommended). High clearance and/or 4WD is recommended.

The Black Rock Desert Playa is impassable when wet, but is generally passable during the summer season. However, beware when traveling on the Playa even when the surface appears to be dry, because it may be wet beneath the surface and become impassable to vehicles. Check with local residents and businesses or BLM for up-to-date conditions.

Most roads and trails are not regularly maintained, are unsigned, and are seldom traveled. Avoid traveling solo in areas where help is not available; use the buddy system. There is no cell phone service in the NCA.

Water is scarce in the region, bring plenty with you (minimum 1 gallon per/day per/person).

Hot Springs Are Dangerous
Contributed by Chuck Dodd

The water in Double Hot Springs is about 190 degrees F and, for some distance, the water in the streams carrying runoff from the springs is almost as hot. In addition, the banks of the springs are very steep and slippery. If you fall into the springs, you cannot get out in time to avoid serious injury. People have died after falling into the springs. Do not dip your hand or put your foot into the springs to test the temperature. Be extremely carreful when walking on the paths around the springs.

Keep your dog on a leash and your children close around Double Hot Springs. Dogs will jump into the springs and almost always die when they do. Dogs have scalded their tongues by drinking from the streams and have burned their feet when crossing the streams.

Other hot spings in the area are not as hot as Double Hot Springs, but the temperature of most hot springs can vary greatly. Always test the temperature of a hot spring (except Double Hot Springs) before getting in. As indicated above, do not even test the temperature of Double Hot Springs.

Playa Conditions Unpredictable and Treacherous

Contributed by Chuck Dodd

Unpredictable weather recently has caused sheets of water have been floating and moving on the playa, which means that conditions are changing -- an area that may be dry one day could be impassible the next.

People -- experienced, knowledgeable people -- are getting stuck out there.

Stuck on the Playa Example 1: "What Not To Do"
Reported by a donor who shall remain anonymous.

Note the water on the playa, left of the vehicle in the photo above.
"I was out on the playa last Wednesday [May 29, 2005], and I was following this flow of water. I stopped a various spots on the edge of the flow to grab some photos, and I was just about to head home when I became distracted and let myself drift into the mud. Just like that -- I was stuck! I could get out on the drivers side and be on dry and driveable playa, and on the passengers side -- I was ankle deep in the mud. 15 miles and 6 hours later I was sitting in Gerlach, trying to find someone to pull me out. All ended well with a lesson learned."

Special Recreation Permits

Black Rock-High Rock Country is a popular venue for a variety of organized recreation activities. The Bureau of Land Management uses Special Recreation Permits (SRP) to authorize and manage various uses and activities on public lands. Permitting allows BLM to monitor potential impacts to natural or cultural resources, and/or conflicts with other recreation or commercial users.

Special Recreation Permits are required when an activity falls into one of the following categories:

Commercial Uses - this is defined as recreational use of public lands and related waters for business or financial gain. When any person, group, or organization makes or attempts to make a profit, receive money, amortize equipment, or obtain goods or services, as compensation from participants in recreational activities occurring on public lands, the use is considered commercial.

Examples in the NCA: The annual Burning Man festival, several hunting outfitters and guides, jeep tours (4-wheel drive), equestrian tours and wagon train rides, cattle drives, and filming or photography for profit associated with a recreational activity.

Competitive Uses - this means any organized, sanctioned, or structured use, event, or activity on public land in which two or more contestants compete and either (1) participants register, enter, or complete an application for the event, or (2) a predetermined course or area is designated.

Examples in the NCA: Unique activities such as rocket launching and land sailing. The world land speed record and the amateur altitude record were authorized under a competitive SRP.

Organized Group Activities and Event Uses - this type of permit is for non-commercial and non-competitive group activities and recreation events. Special Recreation Permits are required for any organized group that have the potential to create impacts on public land.

Examples: A large scout camp out, a fraternity activity, a large family reunion, or a dual sport event. Examples: OHV races, horse endurance rides, mountain bike races, rodeos.

Vending - this type of permit can be temporary, short-term, non-exclusive, or a revocable authorization to sell goods or services on public lands in conjunction with a recreation activity.

Camping

A few rules about camping in the NCA:

• At Soldier Meadows Springs and High Rock Canyon, camping is allowed only in designated campsites. Other areas near the hot springs at Stevens Camp and Massacre Ranch will be limited to designated sites in the future.
• Vehicles are allowed to travel off of designated routes, within 50 feet, to camp. It is recommended to use existing campsites where possible.
• Campfires on the playa must be contained or elevated to prevent scarring or burning of the playa surface.

There are excellent opportunities for primitive camping throughout Black Rock-High Rock Country. The major draw to this area is the wide open spaces and lack of visitation that provides breathtaking views and unlimited solitude. While most camping occurs in a dispersed fashion, there are a few areas with primitive camping facilities.

Most campers find random locations without any camping facilities, but provide ample opportunities for solitude. There are many dispersed campsites located along the western edge of the Black Rock Desert playa in the “bays” and other nooks located ‘just off’ the edge of the playa. Many campers enjoy camping in the middle of the playa, which offers a unique experience that could make anyone feel small. Other dispersed campsites are established near the ends of the wilderness cherrystem routes, in the vicinity of the hot springs (Trego, Black Rock and Double Hot), and along roads throughout the NCA. Several primitive campsites have also been established at Cassidy Mine and Flowing Wells, which are located on the western fringe of the playa, between the playa and Soldier Meadows Road. Remember. The best campsites are found, not made - use existing campsites where possible to prevent unnecessary impacts to the desert resources.

Soldier Meadows
Semi-primitive camping facilities are located within the Soldier Meadows Hot Spring Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) and on private ranch lands owned by Soldier Meadows Ranch. Facilities on BLM lands include primitive campsites (parking areas and firepits), a vault toilet, a primitive cabin, and walking trails that lead to the hot springs. There are seven defined campsites in the ACEC. Five are located in the Hot Creek Campground, one is at the Cabin Site, and the last is located above the Hidden Spring to the west of the main hot springs area. The primitive cabin is available for public use on a first-come first-served basis.

Soldier Meadows Ranch also allows camping on their property with permission and a small fee. They also provide lodging and meals.

Soldier Meadows is one of the most highly visited areas in the NCA. If you are looking for solitude, this may not be your place.

Steven’s Camp
Stevens Camp is a popular camping area located at the North end of High Rock Canyon. It is a convenient and accessible camping area that provides a good base camp for exploration of High Rock Canyon and the surrounding uplands - rich in game and not many people. There are four established camping areas at Stevens Camp, including a large site near the free use cabin. The cabin site(s) includes amenities such as a vault toilet, picnic tables, fire pits and a grill. The cabin itself is available for public use on a first-come first-served basis and includes amenities such as running water (must be treated prior to drinking), a wood stove, a shower and hot water heater, and connections for generator to provide power and lights to the cabin. The cabin is full most of the summer, so don’t expect to be the only person looking to use the facilities.

High Rock Canyon
High Rock Canyon is a popular camping area for the adventurous types who have 4WD and know how to use it. There are no camping facilities at the campsite in High Rock Canyon, but there is an abundance of solitude and interesting side canyons to explore. To prevent impacts to Bighorn Sheep and Raptor Nesting, camping is limited to designated sites in High Rock Canyon. The road through High Rock Canyon is seasonally closed from February 1st until the second weekend in May.

The Lahontan Cutthroat Trout Wilderness Study Area (LCT WSA)
This area encompasses a healthy and productive watershed that was established as a Wilderness Study Area (WSA) to protect the last unaltered population of Lahontan Cutthroat Trout. The canyon from the north slope of the Black Rock Range provides excellent habitat for deer, antelope, bighorn sheep and wild horses. The aspen filled canyons and cool desert streams provide a welcome escape during the hot summer season. Primitive campsites are scattered throughout the area along the stream and roads. There are no facilities at these campsites. Fishing is prohibited in the streams and Summit Lake.

Remember to bring your own water, firewood, and shelter. These items are not easily found or reliable throughout the year.

Hiking

While there are no constructed hiking trails in the NCA or the ten wilderness areas, there are ample opportunities for cross country wilderness hiking and hiking along primitive two-track roads in the backcountry. Many canyons throughout the NCA and wilderness provide perennial water sources and there are springs dotting the mountains, which allow for day hiking and long distance overnight hiking (purify water before drinking). If you are used to hiking on constructed trails, be sure to budget extra time to hike similar distances cross country. Also be sure to pack extra water, since springs and water sources are not always reliable.

The Desert Trail
The Desert Trail is a Canada to Mexico orienteering route and uses trailheads and checkpoints references along an 80-mile route through Black Rock-High Rock Country. The route meanders across the playa, into the mountains, and through the canyons of the NCA and wilderness. Maps have been developed for the High Rock Canyon portion of this trail. A comprehensive guidebook is available for the three segments crossing the southern portion of the NCA.

High Rock Canyon Complex
The High Rock Canyon Complex offers some of the best opportunities for intermediate hiking and backpacking. Several well watered canyons provide scenic campsites and excellent wildlife viewing and hunting opportunities. Hike through High Rock Canyon, East Fork High Rock Canyon (Pole Canyon) or Mahogany Canyon to explore historic homesteads, view the wild populations of California bighorn sheep, or follow wild horse trails to the canyon rims to view the expansive plateaus and large herds of pronghorn antelope. Upper High Rock Canyon is a short hike from Stevens Camp, which is located at the North end of High Rock Canyon, along the upper portion of High Rock Creek to a grassy wet meadow. What was once a perilous segment for the emigrant wagon trains is now a delightful hike through an aspen lined creek.. Note: the road through High Rock Canyon is closed seasonally from February 1st until the second weekend in May.

North Black Rock Range
The Northern slopes of the Black Rock Range offer unique hiking experiences. The shade and cool running water found in the Aspen lined canyons of the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout Wilderness Study Area provide excellent hiking opportunities, even in the hottest months. Hike up Pahute Peak, the high point in the NCA at 8594 feet elevation, for 360° views of the NCA and Wilderness. These areas are best visited in the summer season, June through September.

The Calico Mountains
The Calico Mountains, located on the western edge of the Black Rock Desert offer outstanding opportunities for hiking. Most of the larger canyon leading out of the Calico mountains have perennial water and shade trees in the upper portions. Check out Donnelly Creek, Cherry Creek, Willow Creek, Petrified Canyon or Box Canyon (dry) for interesting canyon hikes. Summit Donnelly Peak, the high point in the Calico Range at 8533 feet elevation, for sweeping views of the playa, High Rock Canyon and the surrounding mountain landscape.

OHV Use

Black Rock Country has a myriad of opportunities for off-highway vehicle (OHV) and all terrain vehicle (ATV) touring and exploration. Over 800 miles of primitive roads provide access to even the most remote corners of the NCA.

Follow the Applegate National Historic Trail to experience the sights and terrains that challenged thousands of emigrants in the mid-1800’s. The Trails West Organization publishes a very informative self-guided tour book for the trail. Test your skills and equipment with a ride through High Rock Canyon, which requires 4-WD and skilled driving. Zoom across the flat and barren Black Rock Desert Playa (dry lakebed), following the tracks of the land speed record holder. Whatever your interest, there is an opportunity for you.

Recreate Responsibly

Please remember your access to public lands depends on your ability to recreate responsibly. Please honor the Tread Lightly! pledge and follow OHV regulations to protect your recreation opportunities. Off-highway vehicles are allowed on the flat, un-vegetated parts of the playa and on 800 miles of designated primitive trails elsewhere in Black Rock-High Rock Country. This includes designated roads surrounding wilderness areas and cherry stem roads that dead end in wilderness areas.

The dunes surrounding the playa are off limits to motorized travel.

Hunting

Hunting is allowed in the NCA and in the wilderness areas. Game animals include mule deer, pronghorn antelope, California bighorn sheep, chukar, and sage-grouse.

Visit the Nevada Division of Wildlife (NDOW) website, where you can find hunt zone maps, information on licenses, and how to apply for a hunting tag.

The NDOW website also includes a link to hunting ‘Guides and Subguides’, providing contact information for outfitters and some guides who operate in the Black Rock-High Rock Country under a BLM permit.

Fishing

Rockhounding

Collecting minerals or common invertebrate fossils can be enjoyed almost everywhere in Black Rock-High Rock Country. Rock and mineral enthusiasts search the hills and canyons for petrified wood, geodes, agates, fossils and many other types of colorful and interesting specimens.

To protect mineral deposits and ensure long-term opportunities for collection, the following regulations apply:

• All rock and mineral collection is limited to 25 lbs/day per/person, with up to one piece for a total of 250 lbs per/year.
• Common invertebrate fossils such as plants, mollusks and trilobites may be collected for personal use in reasonable quantities, but may not be sold or bartered.
• Petrified wood may not be traded or sold without a permit issued by BLM.
• Vertebrate fossils such as dinosaurs, mammals, fishes, and reptiles, and uncommon invertebrate fossils may be collected only by trained researchers under a BLM permit. These resources remain the property of all Americans and are placed with museums or other public institutions after study.
• Hanging Rock Petrified Forest and Charles Lund Petrified Forest are closed to rock hounds
• No new mining claims are allowed in the NCA or wilderness areas, but a few claims that predate congressional designation remain valid. All minerals found on an existing mining claim belong to the claim holder and permission must be obtained to rock hound there. Records of claims can be viewed at BLM offices or County Recorder Offices.

Landsailing

Land sailing is a favored activity on the playa. The Sunny Acres Sailing, Sipping and Soaring Society (SASSASS) conducts two land sailing events each year on the Black Rock Desert playa.

No permit is required for individual recreational land sailing. More information about land sailing and land sailing organizations is available at Landsailing in America

Rocketry

The Black Rock Desert is a mecca for rocket launching enthusiasts. Several amateur rocket clubs, including Aeropac, use the Black Rock Desert Playa as a launching site because of its remoteness, good sight distance and good weather.

At least three different rocketry clubs conduct launches and campouts on the Black Rock Desert Playa each year.

The current altitude record for amateur rocketry was set by the Civilian Space Exploration Team (CSXT) on May 17, 2004, when its “Go Fast” rocket reached an altitude of 72 miles (380,160 feet). This was the first amateur rocket to cross the officially recognized threshold of space, which is 100 kilometers or 62 miles above sea level.

Launch Schedule: Please see aeropac.org and click on their "Launch Calendar" link.

News:
• Black Rock Rendezvous Black Brant Launch high-powered-rocketry.com/?p=30