Things to Do & Top Attractions in Spanish Springs & Sparks, Nevada
Spanish Springs and Sparks (part of the Reno–Sparks metro area) offer a surprising mix of outdoor recreation, family entertainment, cultural attractions, and places to gear up for adventures in the Sierra. Below are top picks organized by category so you can plan a half-day, full day, or multi-day visit.
Family Entertainment
Wild Island Family Adventure Park
Wild Island is a large family entertainment complex in the Sparks area that combines a seasonal waterpark (slides, wave pool, kids zone) with year-round attractions such as go-karts, mini golf, bowling and an arcade — a one-stop spot for families looking for varied activities. The water attractions operate seasonally; check the park site for open dates and hours.
Clearly Tahoe (Clear Kayak Tours)
Clearly Tahoe runs clear-bottom kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals at Lake Tahoe (locations include Sand Harbor and other Tahoe marinas). Their clear kayaks offer a unique, family-friendly way to experience Lake Tahoe’s water and underwater views during the warmer months. If you plan a day trip from Sparks, Sand Harbor is one of the most popular launch points.
Culture & History
The Place in Time (events & immersive experiences)
“The Place in Time” (The Place in Time, LLC) operates themed events in the Reno-Sparks region — known for seasonal immersive productions such as family-friendly haunted attractions and holiday events. It functions as a private event/production company offering ticketed experiences; verify current events and locations on their site before going.
Griffith canyon petroglyphs
Griffith Canyon, located in the foothills north of Sparks and Spanish Springs, contains hiking access and panels of prehistoric petroglyphs. Hikers often visit the short trails that lead to the petroglyph galleries; the site is an important local archaeological and cultural feature — treat the site respectfully and follow trail rules. Trail reports and local hiking guides describe a roughly 1.8–2 mile out-and-back route to the petroglyph areas.
Wilbur D. May Arboretum & Botanical Garden
The Wilbur D. May Arboretum & Botanical Garden is a 13+ acre living museum and botanical garden that showcases native and adaptive plants and hosts educational programs and seasonal displays. It’s a pleasant spot for plant lovers, photographers, and families who want an easy, scenic walk in cultivated gardens. The site is maintained by Washoe County and has a supporting nonprofit, the May Arboretum Society.
Nature & Trails
Eagle Canyon Park
Eagle Canyon Park is a neighborhood Washoe County park in Spanish Springs offering playgrounds, picnic sites, athletic fields (permit use for organized field play), an exercise course and other neighborhood amenities. It’s a low-key park suited to families and local outdoor time without a long drive. If you’re visiting with kids, it’s a straightforward, convenient green space.
Sports & Recreation
Golden Eagle Regional Park & Sports Complex
Golden Eagle Regional Park is a major, multi-field sports complex and regional park in Sparks. The park covers a large footprint and features artificial turf sports fields, baseball/softball diamonds, soccer fields, playgrounds, courts and picnic areas — it’s a hub for community sports leagues and tournaments. If you’re visiting for recreation or spectating, check the City of Sparks parks pages for fields, permits and scheduled events.
Red Hawk Golf & Resort
Red Hawk Golf and Resort (Red Hawk) is a full golf resort with two 18-hole courses (Lakes and Hills courses), practice facilities, dining and event spaces. It’s located in the Spanish Springs / Sparks area and is a go-to for golfers in the region. Tee time booking, course details, and resort amenities are available on the course’s official site and partners.
Rentals & Gear / Adventure Prep
Nevada Adventure Rentals
Nevada Adventure Rentals (based in nearby Reno) offers outdoor gear, climbing equipment and vehicle rentals (including motorcycles) that serve adventurers setting out for local trails, Lake Tahoe, or longer trips. They’re a good one-stop for gear rental or last-minute supplies before heading into mountain recreation.
Quick Visit Tips & Planning Notes
- Seasonality: Water parks (Wild Island) and lake rentals (Clearly Tahoe) are seasonal — check operating dates and hours before you go.
- Respect cultural sites: Griffith Canyon petroglyphs are archaeological features; don’t touch rock art, and stay on established trails. Local hiking resources emphasize respectful visitation.
- Large events & sports schedules: Golden Eagle Regional Park frequently hosts tournaments and league play; verify schedules so your visit aligns with your plans.
- Book ahead for rentals and tee times: For Clearly Tahoe launches and Red Hawk tee times, reservations are recommended during peak season and holidays.
Whether you’re visiting for family fun, culture, trails or sports, Spanish Springs and Sparks provide accessible options within a short drive of Reno and many launch points to Lake Tahoe. Pick a category that fits the day you want — splash and arcade fun, a short historical hike to see petroglyphs, a relaxing botanical stroll, or a round of golf — and check the linked official pages for hours, reservations and seasonal details.
