Sand Mountain Recreation Area

Located 25 miles east of Fallon, Nevada, Sand Mountain Recreation Area offers 4,800 acres of challenges for the off-roader. The massive sand dunes, managed by the BLM, are 600 feet high and stretch across two miles. Called the “Singing Mountain” for the distinctive acoustical energy emitted when disturbed by the wind, soft rustles to eerie booms are heard by those wandering over this mountain. A unique destination, Sand Mountain provides plenty of entertainment for visitors ranging from adrenaline junkies to outdoor photographers.

Permits and fees

Within 30 minutes, each primary vehicle must obtain a permit. A primary vehicle is the street-legal vehicle used to get to Sand Mountain. Permits are obtained at the fee booth located at the entrance to the recreation area. If an attendant is not on duty, there is a self-service fee tube. An annual permit costs $90.00, with the fee for a weekly permit set at $40.00. Annual permits are available at the fee booth during holiday weekends, or call the BLM Carson City or Reno office. The weekly permit is valid for seven consecutive days after entry. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are free days for everyone.

Vehicle use restrictions

On the main sand dune area, there are no travel restrictions, just vehicle restrictions. All vehicles riding on the dunes must have an eight foot whip flag attached. On the vegetated portions of the dune system, vehicles are only allowed on approved routes. This is to protect the Sand Mountain Blue Butterfly, which is currently on the sensitive species list. Designated routes are marked with vertical posts. More information on the butterfly and road use is available at the information kiosks located at the camping area.

Camping

Camping at Sand Mountain Recreation Area is only allowed at the designated camping area. This is a primitive camping site, with no water or firewood available at the camping area. Dumpsters are provided for trash, and visitors are encouraged to use a fire pan for camp fires. Three vault toilets are provided. Campers need to watch out for children and drive safely and slowly in the camping area. Firearms are strictly prohibited, as are the burning of tires or the use of any glass beverage containers.

Set along the historic 1860 Pony Express trail, Sand Mountain is a great place for off-roader use, sand boarding or hiking. More than 30,000 visitors a year travel to this Great Basin wonder. Spring and fall are the best times to visit Sand Mountain. Winters are cold, wet and snowy, and summers are hot, dry and windy. Any time of year offers spectacular scenery. Just remember to drive safely and have fun.