Adams-McGill Reservoir is a serene oasis for birds, waterfowl, fish, and wildlife in Nevada’s Great Basin desert. This nearly 15,000-acre wetland in the White River Valley of Nevada’s Silver Trails Region offers abundant recreational opportunities while primarily serving as a wildlife habitat. It is the largest of five artificial reservoirs within the Wayne E. Kirch Wildlife Management Area, a haven for migratory birds, waterfowl, and endangered native fishes. Rainbow trout and largemouth bass fishing in these reservoirs are rewarding, although secondary to the area’s primary function as a wildlife sanctuary.
Managed by the Nevada Department of Wildlife, the Kirch Wildlife Management Area offers several amenities for human visitors, including stocked fish in four reservoirs, boat ramps, and designated fishing areas. Shore fishing is limited to protect wildlife habitats, and boating speeds are restricted to ensure a peaceful environment. Canoes and kayaks are permitted, but the windy conditions and rough waters often deter their use.
The nearby Dave Deacon Campground provides 20 campsites with basic amenities, including vault toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and drinking water. The campground, set among cottonwood trees, offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers who enjoy hiking, bird watching, and observing the diverse wildlife. The surrounding landscape features the Great Basin Mountain Range, sagebrush flats, and wildflower-dotted meadows, creating a picturesque backdrop.
Wildlife enthusiasts can encounter a variety of species, including pronghorn, mule deer, coyotes, and numerous bird species such as osprey, eagles, and waterfowl. The area is also a refuge for endangered species like the Moorman White River springfish.
The reservoirs within the WMA, including Adams-McGill, Dacey, Cold Springs, and Haymeadow, were created by damming the White River and its tributaries. The Nevada Department of Wildlife meticulously manages these wetlands to maintain optimal conditions for wildlife through controlled burns, grazing, and herbicide use.
While the WMA offers limited accommodations, nearby towns such as Ely and other local communities provide lodging options, guest cabins, and ranch stays. In addition, tourists can explore the historical monuments in the area, which include “Area 51” attractions and ghost towns from the silver mining era.