LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — The Nevada Division of State Parks is asking the public to vote on the official name of the state’s newest state park after receiving nearly 2,500 name suggestions during a monthlong submission period.
The park protects 4.5 miles of the Carson River corridor, preserves cultural resources dating to the late 1800s, and encompasses portions of the historic California and Pony Express Trails.
The public was invited to submit name ideas throughout July. A committee of Department staff reviewed the entries and selected five finalists based on the park’s natural resources, cultural significance, and historic character.
“The response to this naming campaign has been impressive,” Nevada State Parks Administrator Jonathan Brunjes said. “Nearly 2,500 submissions demonstrate how much people care about preserving this special place. We hope everyone will cast a vote and help choose the official name for Nevada’s newest state park.”
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The five finalists
- Carson River Ranches State Park — Honors the property’s ranching history, including Chaves Ranch and Break-A-Heart Ranch, while recognizing the Carson River that flows through the park.
- Cottonwood Trails State Park — Reflects the journeys of Indigenous peoples, westward emigrants, the Pony Express, the Carson & Colorado Railroad, and ranchers, while celebrating the park’s cottonwood trees.
- Crossroads Canyon State Park — Represents the movement of people and cultures across historic travel routes. Also highlights the park’s riparian canyon setting and its history as a divorce ranch in the 1940s–1950s.
- Heritage Canyon State Park — Recognizes the property’s cultural history, including Indigenous stewardship, emigrant trails, and ranching, while highlighting its canyon landscape.
- River’s Edge State Park — A nature-inspired name tied to the park’s location along the Carson River and its future opportunities for recreation and conservation.
How to vote
Voting is open through 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2026. Each participant may vote only once. Gov. Joe Lombardo will announce the winning name at the park’s official designation ceremony later this fall.
The public can review the finalist names and cast a vote here.
The park has limited public access while Nevada State Parks develops a master plan to guide future recreation, conservation, and visitor amenities. Additional access and planning information will be released as it becomes available.
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