Sand Harbor photo wins 1st place in nationwide contest

(Lake Tahoe, Nev.) – The Nevada Division of State Parks, within the Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, is excited to announce that, of approximately 10,000 entries, the #1 winning photo of Aspira’s 2018 America State Parks Photo Contest showcases the ever-inspiring Sand Harbor - Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park. Launched in 2017, the first annual photo contest received more than 8,000 entries nationwide, and last year’s winning photo featured Nevada’s own Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park.

This year’s winning photo of Sand Harbor was taken by Karen Wong, a stay-at-home mom of two boys, who says she’s had no photography experience and simply captured the image using her smart phone.  Wong saw the contest announcement on Facebook and decided to submit her beautiful photo.

“I'm still in disbelief that my photo was selected and won!” said Wong. “Our family visited Lake Tahoe for the first time two years ago and it is our favorite lake. I was inspired by Pinterest photos of Sand Harbor and we finally got a chance to go back to this beautiful spot.”

The winning photos of Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park in 2017 and Sand Harbor-Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park in 2018 shine the spotlight on Nevada’s ultra-diverse surroundings, outdoor adventures, and unique sense of place. From the one-of-a-kind beehive-shaped charcoal ovens at Ward, to the bluer-than-blue majestic lakeshore of Sand Harbor, and beyond, there is a Nevada State Park for just about every adventure you choose. What’s more, within the Nevada State Parks system, there are more than 350 interpretive programs and guided hikes each year, 23 campgrounds, nine designated historic sites (including Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park), and access to numerous off-highway vehicle trails.

“Nevada’s 26 State Parks are an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, featuring premier recreational opportunities, epic stories, historic treasures, native species, and inspiring vistas spanning every geographic region in our great state,” said Bradley Crowell, Director of the Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. “We are thrilled that our residents and visitors continue to bring the essence of Nevada’s State Parks to life by sharing their memories, outdoor discoveries, and iconic natural and cultural wonders – through their own creative lenses.”

“State Parks are places for families to create memories and enjoy the natural beauty,” added Wong. “There is so much to see and never enough time. It’s important to take time out of our busy lives.” Wong’s family plans to explore additional Nevada State Parks, including Valley of Fire State Park, in the near future.

With a focus on highlighting real-life moments and celebrating the heart-and-soul of our nation’s State Parks, Aspira’s annual America State Parks Photo Contest encourages nature lovers and amateur photographers to submit photos of their State Park adventures within the six categories of Scenic & Seasons, Camping, Activities, Wildlife, and Friends & Family. Aspira’s next America State Parks Photo Contest is slated to launch in June 2019.

To learn more about Nevada State Parks and discover your next adventure, visit parks.nv.gov.