Sparks Marina Park Tours

Sparks Marina Park showing a garden, cycling and a lake or waterhole
Sparks Marina Park which includes a garden
Sparks Marina Park showing a garden
Sparks Marina Park featuring a park, landscape views and a pebble beach
Sparks Marina Park which includes rides and a park


Sandy beaches, shade trees and walking trails surround this picturesque lake near downtown Reno.

This former gravel pit has grown from humble beginnings into a favorite summer destination in the Reno-Sparks area. Just as plans were being formulated to turn the 100-foot (30-meter) deep pit into a recreational lake, the Great Truckee River Flood of 1997 hit, filling the pit overnight. An underground spring feeds the 77-acre (31-hectare) lake, ensuring the water is always clear.

Sparks Marina Park is a favorite summer spot for locals as well as tourists. There are two patrolled beaches, one of which is a designated swimming zone, making it extremely safe. There are two beach volleyball courts that are free to play on. Nearby, there’s also a large playground suitable for all ages. In summer, a concession stand serves refreshments and light snacks — or bring your own picnic.

Take a relaxing paddle across the lake in a kayak or canoe while enjoying the stunning mountain backdrop. Only non-motorized water craft or those with electric motors are allowed on the lake and life jackets must be worn at all times. If you want to check out the marine life,scuba diving is permitted in the lake, but divers must not dive alone and must check in with rangers before and after their dive.

Explore the lush grounds surrounding the lake by foot or bike along the near two-mile (three-kilometer) trail. The pier at the south end of the lake is a popular fishing spot, but before you throw in a line to fish, make sure you pick up a license at one of the nearby stores.

Sparks Marina Park is open year-round and, not surprisingly, is often crowded on hot summer days. The Marina is accessible by bus from downtown Reno. Free parking is available nearby and wheelchair access is good. The concession stand runs only through summer so bring refreshments if you plan to visit in the cooler months. Sparks Marina Park is located in Sparks, which is about a 10-minute drive east of Reno.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Sparks Marina Park

Nugget Casino Resort

Nugget Casino Resort

4 out of 5
1100 Nugget Ave, Sparks, NV
Nugget Casino Resort
Western Village Inn & Casino by Peppermill Resorts

Western Village Inn & Casino by Peppermill Resorts

3.5 out of 5
815 Nichols Blvd., Sparks, NV
Western Village Inn & Casino by Peppermill Resorts
Extended Stay America Premier Suites - Reno - Sparks

Extended Stay America Premier Suites - Reno - Sparks

2.5 out of 5
790 LINCOLN WAY, Sparks, NV
Extended Stay America Premier Suites - Reno - Sparks
Residence Inn by Marriott Reno Sparks

Residence Inn by Marriott Reno Sparks

3 out of 5
300 Legends Bay Dr, Sparks, NV
Residence Inn by Marriott Reno Sparks
Hampton Inn & Suites Reno/Sparks

Hampton Inn & Suites Reno/Sparks

2.5 out of 5
200 Legends Bay Dr, Sparks, NV
Hampton Inn & Suites Reno/Sparks
Chic Apt w Jacuzzi Pool BBQ Mountain Views

Chic Apt w Jacuzzi Pool BBQ Mountain Views

2 out of 5
Sparks
Chic Apt w Jacuzzi Pool BBQ Mountain Views
Designer Apt With Jacuzzi Sky Lounge Gym Access

Designer Apt With Jacuzzi Sky Lounge Gym Access

2 out of 5
Sparks
Designer Apt With Jacuzzi Sky Lounge Gym Access
5 Mi to Downtown Reno: Home w/ Lake Access!

5 Mi to Downtown Reno: Home w/ Lake Access!

3 out of 5
Sparks
5 Mi to Downtown Reno: Home w/ Lake Access!
Chic Apt w Jacuzzi Lake Front Nr Casino Imax

Chic Apt w Jacuzzi Lake Front Nr Casino Imax

2 out of 5
Sparks
Chic Apt w Jacuzzi Lake Front Nr Casino Imax
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Sparks Marina Park

Sparks Marina Park offers a variety of activities for tourists, including exciting sports, wildlife observation, and vibrant festivals. Visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife experience, try scuba diving in the marina, and explore options for weekend getaways. With its beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities, Sparks Marina Park is an ideal destination for those looking to relax and have fun.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is the Outlets at Legends Sparks, just 805m from Sparks Marina Park, offering a variety of stores and entertainment. Meadowood Mall is another great option, located 8.0km away. If you're up for a drive, visit the Marshall Mint Museum, 25.7km away for unique finds.

Recreation

At Sparks Marina Park, you can enjoy wellness activities like bowling at the National Bowling Stadium, just 6.4km away, or indulge in a round of golf at Wildcreek Golf Course or Brookside Golf Course, both located 4.8km away, surrounded by beautiful outdoor scenery.

Adventure

Experience thrilling water slides and wave pools at Wild Island Family Adventure Park, located 1.4km from Sparks Marina Park. For winter enthusiasts, Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe and Little Red Glade, both offering exciting skiing experiences, are 16 and 27.4km away, respectively.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Sparks Marina Park offers exciting options. Catch a flick at Cinemark Century Park Lane 16, just 6.4km away, perfect for family fun or a romantic outing. For an adventurous twist, visit Fun Quest, an arcade adventure zone located 4.8km away, great for all ages.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Sparks Marina Park

Sparks Marina Park offers a variety of attractions for visitors, including event venues, entertainment facilities, and a modern university. You can explore local culture, enjoy family-friendly activities, and experience the great outdoors. Don't miss out on nearby attractions and the scenic Sparks waterfront, which provide a perfect backdrop for your vacation in Sparks, Nevada.

  • Reno-Sparks Convention Center: A hub for business and events, this convention center hosts a variety of conferences and exhibitions. Its spacious facilities and modern amenities create a professional atmosphere, making it ideal for networking and discovering new opportunities.
  • University of Nevada-Reno: This vibrant campus blends education with city life, offering beautiful grounds, modern architecture, and a lively student atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy art exhibits and cultural events, giving a taste of local academia.
  • Riverwalk District: A charming neighborhood lined with shops, restaurants, and art galleries, the Riverwalk District offers a picturesque stroll along the Truckee River. Experience the local culture and vibrant nightlife in this lively area.

Best time to go to Sparks Marina Park

The best time to visit Sparks Marina Park can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Sparks Marina Park falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Sparks Marina Park falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January32.5°F (0.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
February34.7°F (1.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March39.7°F (4.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April47.8°F (8.8°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May56.7°F (13.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June67.1°F (19.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
July76.1°F (24.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August74.1°F (23.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September66.7°F (19.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October53.2°F (11.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
November39.9°F (4.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December31.6°F (-0.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sparks Marina Park

To save money during your visit to Sparks Marina Park, consider traveling in March or October to November when accommodation prices are lower. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to book a stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to find eco-friendly hotel options and sort by price to discover the best deals. Additionally, consider booking a package that includes your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings. Enjoy free activities at the park and utilize public transport for affordable travel around the area.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Sparks Marina Park are March and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Sparks Marina Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Sparks Marina Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to tailor your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel style. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply adjust the price filter to sort from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on your trip by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay at Sparks Marina Park with your flights and activities.

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