Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge OHV Trails Visit Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge — where you can truly become one with the wild. Location Humboldt & Washoe Counties Length 338 miles (Network) Difficulty Easy, Moderate Town Denio Surface Dirt, Rock/Ledge Pets Permitted Fees No Wilderness Areas Sheldon NWR, North Black Rock Range, Black Rock Desert, East Fork High Rock Mountain, High Rock Canyon, Pine Forest Range Wilderness Study Areas Sheldon NWR WSA, Sheldon Contiguous WSA, Massacre Rim WSA, Pueblo Mountains WSA, Rincon WSA, Spaulding WSA, Hawk Mountain WSA, Sage Hen Hills WSA Description Established in 1931, Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge spans over 572,000 acres of classic northern Nevada high desert. The refuge was created to protect and restore native plants and wildlife, with a special focus on pronghorn antelope. Visitors also commonly see mule deer, greater sage-grouse, and a variety of migratory birds. Scattered throughout the landscape are historic remnants of old ranches and Civilian Conservation Corps structures, including Kinney Camp, Thousand Creek Ranch, and Gooch Camp. There are no established trails — OHV and mountain bike use is limited to existing roads only. Hiking and horseback riding are permitted anywhere in the refuge. Other Information • Most roads are not regularly maintained — high-clearance vehicles and an emergency repair kit are strongly recommended. • Electric motor boats are allowed on Big Spring Reservoir, Catnip Reservoir, and Dufurrena Ponds. • Fishing is permitted at several ponds and reservoirs (NDOW permit required). • Best wildlife and wildflower viewing occurs in spring and summer. A vast, wild landscape perfect for quiet exploration and immersive nature experiences.