Topaz Lake doesn’t get as much attention and acclaim as its big neighbor to the north, Lake Tahoe. It’s a much smaller lake, but it has its own charms and is a picture perfect location for an outdoor adventure.

Much like Lake Tahoe, Topaz Lake sits in both California and Nevada.

Charley C./Yelp The lake is a reservoir created from the West Walker River and it’s about 3-1/2 miles long and 1-1/2 miles wide.

The lake, in its original, smaller form, was an important stopping place for Jedediah Smith in 1827.

Rae @./Yelp Smith was the first non-Native American to cross the Sierra Nevada and visiting Topaz Lake was part of his travels.

The lake doesn’t get a heavy amount of traffic so it’s the perfect spot for a peaceful camping or fishing interlude where you can sit back and enjoy the shimmering blue color of the waters.

ChemnitzPuffin/TripAdvior

Primitive campsites are available around the lake, as well as 70 RV campsites, some with water and power and some without.

Marco S./TripAdvisor If you’re not a fan of camping, the Topaz Lodge Casino is also located on the lake, which has some exquisite views of the reservoir.

Visitors to Topaz Lake enjoy boating activities, and the lake is stocked with rainbow and brown trout for those who love fishing.

mini/TripAdvisor Boats, jet skis and water skis are also available for rent.

There are also picnic tables and a playground area for children. This is an incredible spot for a picnic, although be aware there isn’t much shade so bring sunscreen and a hat (or an umbrella!)

mini/TripAdvisor

If you’re looking for an enjoyable lakeside adventure without the crowds at larger attractions, Topaz Lake is a serene oasis you won’t soon forget!

Sheila Sund/Flickr To reach Topaz Lake, take Highway 395 south from the Carson City area. Go east on Topaz Lake Park Road until you get to the Douglas County Park. You can get to the lake shore via Topaz Lake Park Road which is within the Douglas County Park.

Have you ever visited this lovely reservoir? Share in the comments!

Charley C./Yelp

The lake is a reservoir created from the West Walker River and it’s about 3-1/2 miles long and 1-1/2 miles wide.

Rae @./Yelp

Smith was the first non-Native American to cross the Sierra Nevada and visiting Topaz Lake was part of his travels.

ChemnitzPuffin/TripAdvior

Marco S./TripAdvisor

If you’re not a fan of camping, the Topaz Lodge Casino is also located on the lake, which has some exquisite views of the reservoir.

mini/TripAdvisor

Boats, jet skis and water skis are also available for rent.

Sheila Sund/Flickr

To reach Topaz Lake, take Highway 395 south from the Carson City area. Go east on Topaz Lake Park Road until you get to the Douglas County Park. You can get to the lake shore via Topaz Lake Park Road which is within the Douglas County Park.

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