Reno, Sparks, and Carson City are the closest metro area to California's High Desert correctional facilities. Susanville sits just ~85 miles northwest of Reno — closer than Sacramento — so you can base in the Reno area and work premium CDCR contracts in the Sierra.
Quick Answer
Travel nurses near Reno can work at 1 correctional facility cluster within 85 miles. Pay ranges from $3,200 to $3,200 per week.
| Facility | City | Drive | Avg Pay | Roles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
High Desert State Prison (HDSP) & California Correctional Center (CCC) | Susanville | 1 hr 30 min | $3,200/wk | RN, LVN, CNA |
Detailed info on pay, duties, housing, and what to expect at each facility.
Safer staffing ratios
Correctional facilities follow structured nurse-to-patient ratios, unlike many hospital settings.
Predictable schedules
12-hour shifts, 3 days per week. Minimal mandatory overtime compared to acute care.
Premium pay packages
Correctional assignments frequently pay more than comparable hospital positions.
Long contracts
13-week contracts with frequent extension opportunities. Less frequent relocation.
Varied clinical experience
Correctional nursing covers chronic care, urgent care, psych, and intake screenings.
High job security
Government-operated facilities have consistent staffing demand regardless of economic cycles.
CatSol recruiters specialize in CDCR placements. We handle the background check, credentialing, and onboarding.
Susanville is about 85 miles northwest of Reno, roughly a 1 hour 30 minute drive via Highway 395/44 — noticeably closer than Sacramento (155 miles). High Desert State Prison and the California Correctional Center are both in Susanville.
Travel nurses at High Desert State Prison in Susanville currently earn up to about $3,300/week for RN roles, with LVN and CNA assignments paying less. Remote-location facilities like HDSP tend to pay at the top of the CDCR range. Packages include housing stipend and per diem.
Yes — the facilities are in California, so you need a California RN or LVN license even if you live in Nevada. California is not a compact state. CatSol helps with the licensing process and reimburses fees.
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