About 2 hours outside of Winnemucca you will find the Sheldon Wildlife Refuge containing Dufurrena Ponds, Virgin Valley Hot Springs, and an opal mine!
If you love viewing wildlife, fishing, hiking, camping, rockhounding, and/or soaking, this place is for you!
There are no entrance fees to the Sheldon Refuge or Dufurrena Ponds but if you do plan on going to the opal mines be prepared to pay to dig. At the campgrounds, there are areas to dry camp, pull and park a 5th wheel or bumper pull camper. These areas are free to use. The campgrounds also include bathrooms and a shower area at the hot pond. Campfires are only permitted in designated fire rings and fires may be restricted during times of increased fire risk. Fires are not permitted when camping in the backcountry. If you do choose to have a fire in the permitted areas bring your own wood since gathering wood within the Refuge is prohibited. Remember to always check the fire restrictions for the area before your visit and plan accordingly. Pets must be leashed at all times except for bird dogs who can be unleashed but under the control of the
handler.