July 8, 2026
Santa Maria Ranch: A Community Guide
Dennis Lindsay
Broker Associate · Berkshire Hathaway
Santa Maria Ranch is one of Dayton, Nevada's most desirable master-planned communities. Spanning 954 acres along the Carson River, it offers estate-sized lots, a family-friendly atmosphere, and direct access to some of Northern Nevada's best outdoor recreation.
Community Design
Designed for 2,214 home sites across 13 development phases, Santa Maria Ranch features luxury custom homes on lots of 10,000 square feet and larger. It is the only riverfront community in the Dayton Valley, offering Carson River access and views that define the Northern Nevada lifestyle.
The community borders 10,000 acres of Bureau of Land Management public land, providing residents with immediate access to hiking, biking, and off-roading trails right from their doorstep.
Schools and Education
Families in Santa Maria Ranch are served by the Lyon County School District. Dayton Elementary (PK-6), Dayton Intermediate (7-8), and Dayton High School (9-12) are all located along Dayton Valley Road, making school commutes short and convenient.
The Lifestyle
Living in Santa Maria Ranch means waking up to mountain views, walking paths along the Carson River, and a community park just minutes away. The Carson Valley offers championship golf, and Lake Tahoe's world-class skiing and beaches are less than an hour away.
For those who work in Carson City or Reno, commute times are reasonable at 20 and 35 minutes respectively. The Reno-Tahoe International Airport is about 40 minutes away, connecting residents to major hubs nationwide.
Properties Like 133 Denio
Homes in Santa Maria Ranch range from custom estates to well-appointed single-family homes like 133 Denio. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom ranch offers 2,826 square feet on a 0.35-acre lot, with a covered patio, hot tub, game room, and mountain views. All furnishings are negotiable, making it a truly move-in-ready option in this sought-after community.
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