Let me start by saying Moon Rocks can be many things. We personally visited for the 4wheeling. But after experiencing the place first hand and seeing how beautiful it was I now understand that all kinds of folks come out here for all kinds of things. Camping, hiking, motorcycle riding, mnt biking, photography, bird/wildlife viewing, or just as a place to get away from it all.
Tucked away in the desert outside of Reno is a peculiar outcropping of slick granite that is perfect for rock crawling. First of all, the formations are just beautiful. There are not many places like it. There really aren't any trails, but rather a big collection of obstacles all within a few minutes of each other. It's great for groups because you can all take turns running the gamut. Moon Rocks is just one area inside the larger Hungry Valley OHV area where there are many miles of trails, but Moon Rocks is one very large play area.
There are deep crevasses that you can straddle, tall vertical waterfalls, narrow fins and off-camber ledges. There are challenges for stock 4x4s and then there are many obstacles that need front and rear lockers, armor and a hatred for sheet metal. Come prepared with spare drive train parts because it's very easy to get into trouble and break something. Roll-overs are likely, body damage is a given and spirits will be soaring!
I highly recommend taking the time to visit. It's truly a beautiful place and the 4wheeling is awesome.
When we were there, we found thousands of broken glass shards and broken parts that were left behind. Please do your best to cleanup ALL of your trash and don't litter! Better yet, fill up a trash bag with broken glass. We want to keep this place open for years to come. Another thing to consider is the vegetation there. Since it is a free for all, there is a chance you might have a run-in with some plants. Please do not damage or remove any of the very old yet small trees and sage brush. There are downed trees all over from careless wheelers. Please don't add to it.
Directions
From Reno, head north on Hwy 445 toward Pyramid Lake. Drive about 15 miles. Look for Winnemucca Ranch Road on the left. Drive six miles and you'll see Moon Rocks on the left. Turn left on the dirt road labeled Hungry Valley OHV area and drive another mile.
Camping is free and there are no designated camping places. The camping is primitive with no facilities. Please pack EVERYTHING out. read more