The Nevada Division of State Parks announced the release of around $1 million in federal funds aimed at outdoor recreation development and acquisition projects through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) program.
According to a press release, the program offers 50:50 matching grants and is open to local governments such as counties, cities, towns, general improvement districts, and Native American tribal governments. The deadline for submissions is September 6, giving potential applicants time to prepare their proposals.
The LWCF, established by the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965, has a history of safeguarding natural areas, water resources, and cultural heritage. Its primary objective is to provide recreation opportunities to all Americans through the development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities.
In Nevada, the LWCF has already made a difference in several communities. Previous projects funded by this program include improvements to the In Town Park in Fernley, the development of splash pads in both Carlin and Wells, and the replacement of outdated playground equipment at Lions Park in Mineral County. Additionally, the City of Henderson benefited from LWCF grants, using the funds to develop two new parks.
For those interested in applying for these grants, the application package and grant manual are available online through the WebGrants system on the Nevada State Parks website.
Established in 1963 by the Nevada Legislature, the Nevada Division of State Parks, part of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, plans, develops, and maintains a system of 27 parks, historic sites, and recreation areas, serving over 4 million visitors annually.
One of the parks in Nevada is Cave Lake State Park. It offers year-round recreational opportunities, featuring a 32-acre reservoir stocked with rainbow and German brown trout. In summer, visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, camping, and mountain biking, while winter activities include ice fishing, skating, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.
For camping, Cave Lake has two campgrounds: Elk Flat Campground and Lake View Campground. Both sites offer level ground with fire pits, grills, tables, and parking, though access roads are unpaved. Elk Flat opens from early May to mid-October, offering showers and flush toilets, while Lake View, located near the lake, is open year-round with similar facilities.
The park also features group sites for day use and camping, as well as two picnic areas along the lake shore equipped with restrooms, tables, grills, and water.
