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Ghost Towns & Abandoned Sites Near Vegas

Rhyolite Nevada Ghost Town

There are many ghost towns near or within a day’s drive from Las Vegas, Nevada. In fact, there are more ghost towns than there are inhabited ones! These ghost towns are the remnants of once-thriving mining communities that existed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These mine camps were mostly abandoned, the ores played out, metal prices fell, or railroads passed by, leaving behind a trace of an era long gone. Others are completely deserted, but some ghost towns still have at some residents.

If you’re keen to discover these amazing historical sites, Las Vegas is a great base from which to do so. Pack your car and embark on an adventure back in time!

Ghost Towns you can drive to from Las Vegas

Status Key:

  • Abandoned: Refers to a place that has been left and is in ruins or structures in a degraded state. It is an excellent option for urban explorers.
  • Semi-Abandoned: Refers to abandoned areas with a small population in the area.
  • Historic: Indicates that preservation efforts have been made, and sometimes, plaques have been installed. It is a great option for everyone.
  • Barren: Refers to a place where there is almost nothing left of the town. It is ideal for metal detectorists.
  • Inhabited/Residential: Some permanent residents live in the immediate and proximate area.
  • Commercial: Refers to a place that is commercially owned and has amenities, restaurants, and stores. It is an excellent option for families.
  • Private: Tours might be available, but they are not open to the general public.
A Wild West Arizona Ghost Town Tour from Las Vegas

Ballarat Ghost Town

Ballarat used to be a town with three hotels, seven saloons, plus other amenities, but it is now an abandoned ghost town. The town wasn’t equipped for all the folks moving there and people just started leaving. Ballarat serves up an eerie ghost town and a taste of its very cool story. Despite being in a mostly desolate place, there exists a general store open at times on weekends and a trailer park for 4-wheeled travelers wishing to camp. Ballarat is another of the best ghost towns to visit near Las Vegas if you love adventure and camping.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

To reach Ballarat ghost town, located in the Mojave Desert, you can follow these steps: From Las Vegas, take the I-15 S and follow the signs for Los Angeles. Once you reach exit 178, take the CA-127 towards Death Valley and make a left turn. Continue driving for about 72 miles until you reach Trona Wildrose Rd. Turn right onto Trona Wildrose Rd and continue for about 28 miles. After that, make a left turn onto Ballarat Rd and continue driving for approximately 3 miles until you finally reach Ballarat.

This is a picture of an old abandoned brick building in Ballarat Ghost Town Mojave Desert California

Belmont Ghost Town

Belmont is a historic ghost town in Nye County, Nevada. Founded in 1865, it was once a booming silver mining town. Although it became the county seat and had a peak population of 2,000, the silver eventually ran out, and the county seat moved to Tonopah in 1905, causing Belmont’s decline. Today, Belmont is a historic district preserving old buildings like the courthouse and Cosmopolitan Saloon and attracts tourists and photographers seeking an old-west experience. It’s a great place to explore, learn about the town’s history and culture, and enjoy scenic high desert views.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

To get to Belmont from Las Vegas, take I-15 N and US-95 N to NV-376 N in Nye County. Follow NV-376 N for about 13 miles and turn right onto NV-82 E. Proceed on NV-82 E for about 28 miles until you reach Belmont. The total distance is about 250 miles, and the estimated driving time is about 4 hours and 15 minutes. Please note that Belmont is off the grid and has no electricity, gas, or food nearby, so make sure you have enough supplies and a reliable vehicle before you go. You should also check the current road conditions and weather forecast before you leave.

This is a picture of old wooden buildings in the Belmont Ghost Town of Nye County Nevada

Bodie Ghost Town

Bodie Ghost Town is a historic site in California that preserves the remains of a gold-mining boomtown from the late 1800s. It has now been turned into a state historic park and is also a popular tourist attraction.

A town literally frozen in time, Bodie was once one of the richest gold mining camps on the West Coast in the late 1800s. At its height, it had a population of about 8,000 but was deserted by the 1940s. Today, it is a state historic park where some of the town’s remains are preserved, and history buffs can stroll through old buildings and view artifacts.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Take I-15 North and US-95 North to NV-360 North in Mineral County. Then, turn left onto NV-360 North and continue for approximately 50 miles. After that, turn right onto US-6 West and continue for about 14 miles. Next, turn left onto CA-167 West and continue for about 38 miles. After that, turn right onto US-395 North and continue for approximately 25 miles. Finally, turn left onto CA-270 East and continue for about 13 miles, and you will arrive at Bodie Ghost Town. Total distance: 241 miles. Driving time: about 4 hours 40 minutes.

This is a photo of the remaining buildings in Bodie Ghost Town

Calico Ghost Town

In 1881, one of the most significant silver strikes in California’s history took place, which led to the birth of Calico. This authentic silver mining town still exists today as one of the few original mining camps from the Old West era. Calico Ghost Town Regional Park is a historic mining town located in California that offers a variety of attractions, activities, and camping options.

San Bernardino County Regional Parks operates Calico Ghost Town. There is a separate entry fee into the town, which is not included in the cost of the attractions. Each attraction has a separate cost. You don’t need to purchase advance tickets; you can buy tickets at each of the park’s locations. For more information, please visit calicotown.com.

Admission Prices:

  • Daily Admission: Adults: $8; youth (4-11): $5; three years and younger: Free. Annual Family Pass: $502.
  • Maggie Mine Tour, Mystery Shack, or Gold Panning Adventure: Each attraction costs $4.50 for 11 and over, $2.50 for 5 to 10 years old, and is free for four and under with a paid adult.
  • Package ticket for all three attractions: The package costs $12 for 11 and over, $6 for 5 to 10-year-olds, and is free for four and under with a paid adult.
  • Calico Odessa Railroad: The train ride costs $5.50 for 11 and over, $3 for 5 to 10 years old, and is free for four and under with a paid adult. Pets are welcome to join the family fun at the attractions and on the train for no additional charge.
  • Hours: Open daily 9:00 am – 5:00 pm except for Christmas Day

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Drive 160 miles south of Las Vegas on the I-15 to the Ghost Town Road exit. It is ten miles north of Barstow.

Chloride, AZ

Chloride is an old mining town in Arizona named after the silver chloride ore discovered in 1862. It was once home to 75 mines and 5,000 people, but after a fire in the 1920s, the population declined to only 350 residents. Despite its size, Chloride is still a popular Wild West destination known for its metal yard art, murals, and gunfight reenactments. Visitors can learn about its history at the Jim Fritz Museum, the Chloride Murals, the Chloride Cemetery, and the High Desert Drifters.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Take I-515 S/US-93 S/US-95 S from Las Vegas. Continue on I-11 S/US-93 S for about 63 miles.
Take exit 53 for US-93 S toward Kingman/Phoenix. Continue on US-93 S for about 23 miles. Turn right onto AZ-125/Chloride Rd.
Follow Chloride Rd for about 4 miles until you reach the town. The total driving distance is about 92 miles, and the estimated driving time is about 1 hour and 38 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Note: Chloride, Arizona, should not be confused with Chloride City in Inyo County, California, another historic ghost town. While both share a mining past and ghost town status, they are distinct locations with their own unique histories and features.

This is the ghost town of Chloride AZ

Chloride City, CA

Chloride City is a historical ghost town located in Inyo County, California, within the Death Valley National Park. The town experienced a boom in the late 19th century due to the discovery of valuable minerals, but its prosperity was short-lived as the mines began to deplete. By the early 20th century, the once-thriving community had transformed into a ghost town. Exploring Chloride City offers a unique opportunity to experience a bygone era, and the skeletal remains of buildings and rusted mining equipment provide a glimpse into the town’s rich history.

*Access to Chloride City may require off-road travel, and visitors should exercise caution as the area is remote.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

To reach Chloride City, take I-15 N and exit at UT-9 toward Hurricane/Zion National Park. Continue on UT-9 E/W State St and turn left onto UT-59 E. Follow AZ-389 E and turn right onto US-89A S. Make a left onto AZ-67 S and take a right onto AZ-68 W. Turn left onto US-93 S and then right onto Chloride Rd. From there, turn left onto Big Wash Rd and take a right onto Chloride Cliff Rd. This road is a dirt road and requires a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle. It may be impassable in bad weather, so always check road conditions before you travel. The journey is approximately 300 miles long and takes about 6 hours. Remember to drive safely.

This is the Chloride City Ghost Town in Death Valley CA

Darwin Ghost Town

Darwin is a former mining town in Inyo County, California, founded in 1874. It had over 3,500 residents at its peak, but today, only about 50 people live there. Despite its small size, Darwin has a post office, fire station, and art gallery. It’s located near Death Valley National Park and is known for its quirky and artistic atmosphere. Visitors can explore the town’s history, culture, and scenery by visiting attractions such as Darwin Falls, Panamint City, and the Darwin Cemetery.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Take I-15 South and exit at Blue Diamond Rd. Drive for 47.4 miles, then turn left onto NV-160 West and continue driving for 72.5 miles. After that, turn right onto CA-178 West and drive for 56.2 miles. Once you reach CA-190 West, turn left and drive for 31.9 miles. Then, turn right onto Darwin Rd and continue driving for 8.1 miles. Afterward, turn left onto Old Toll Rd and continue for 0.7 miles. Finally, turn right onto Main St and drive for 0.3 miles. You have now reached your destination. The total driving distance is about 217 miles, and the estimated driving time is 4 hours and 15 minutes.

This is the Darwin CA ghost town

Death Valley Junction

Death Valley Junction is a historic town in Inyo County, California. Founded in 1907 as a railroad stop for water and mining, it operated until 1940. Today, it has about 20 residents who run a hotel, a restaurant, and a theater. Visitors can see rare fish at Salt Creek or old mining equipment at Harmony Borax Works. Death Valley Junction is also the gateway to the Death Valley National Park and hosts cultural events and performances. It’s easily accessible from Las Vegas.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Take Highway 160 through Pahrump and Death Valley Junction from Las Vegas. Head west on NV-160 W/Blue Diamond Rd. After 60 miles, turn left onto NV-372 W/Bell Vista Ave. Travel about 28 miles, and turn left onto CA-127 S/Death Valley Rd. After 27 miles, take a right onto CA-190 W and continue for 7 miles until you arrive at Death Valley Junction.

Delamar Ghost Town

Delamar was a gold mining town founded in 1894, but it was known as the “widowmaker of Nevada” due to the high death rate of miners from silicosis. Delamar had a population of 1,500, a hospital, a school, a newspaper, and an opera house. After a fire in 1900 and a drop in gold prices in 1909, Delamar declined and was abandoned by 1917. Today, it’s a ghost town that’s worth visiting for exploring mine shafts, watching the sunset, and even spotting UFOs. The trail to Delamar is relatively easy and offers scenic views of the deserted town.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

To reach Delamar ghost town from Las Vegas, follow these directions: take I-15 N from Las Vegas and follow the signs for Salt Lake City. Take exit 64 for US-93 N toward Ely/Pioche/Caliente. Turn right onto US-93 N and keep driving for about 97 miles. Then turn left onto NV-317 N and continue for about 14 miles. After that, turn right onto NV-318 N and keep driving for about 36 miles. When you reach the junction, turn left onto NV-375 W and continue for about 9 miles. Finally, make a right onto Delamar Valley Rd and continue for about 16 miles until you reach Delamar.

This is the Delamar Ghost Town

Eldorado Canyon Ghost Town near Nelson, NV

Gold and silver were discovered in Eldorado Canyon in 1839, leading to the extraction of almost $5m worth of precious metals in 40 years. At its peak, the town was one of the wildest and most dangerous places in the West. It was home to several mining settlements along the Colorado River, plagued by violence, outlaws, bandits, Native American attacks, massacres, and battles. Today, it is a popular destination for kayaking, fishing, and exploring old mines and buildings.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

From Las Vegas, travel Southeast on I-515 for 20 miles to US 93. Turn South on US 93/95 for 13 miles to SR 165. Turn Southeast on SR 165 (Nelson Road) for 11.2 miles to Nelson, Nevada—approximately 50 miles.

This is the Eldorado Canyon ghost town in Nelson Nevada

Goffs Ghost Town

Goffs is a ghost town that dates back to the early 1900s when it was a busy railroad station. It later became a stop along Route 66 but lost its importance when Route 40 bypassed it. Now, Goffs is a fascinating place to visit, with many relics of the past, such as the old rail building and the deserted shops and houses. Goffs is a convenient and fun ghost town near Las Vegas, as it is close by and easy to reach.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

To drive to Goffs, take I-15 S from Las Vegas, follow it for about 108 miles, and use exit 246 for US-95 S toward Searchlight/Needles. Merge onto US-95 S and follow it for about 40 miles. Turn left onto Goffs Rd and follow it for about 10 miles to arrive at your destination. The total distance is about 159 miles.

This is the Goffs Ghost Town General Store

Gold Point Ghost Town

Gold Point is a ghost town that was established as a silver mining town in 1868. At its peak, it had a population of around 225, a post office, a school, a saloon, a general store, and the smallest newspaper in the nation. The town declined after World War II when the mines shut down and the post office closed. In the late 1950s, it became a movie set for several films. Today, Gold Point is a privately owned ghost town with about ten residents and many preserved buildings. Visitors can tour the townsite and stay overnight in one of the cozy lodgings.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Gold Point is located about three hours north of Las Vegas and is a perfect destination for anyone who loves history, adventure, and fun. Drive north on US-95 for about 165.5 miles, passing by Scotty’s Junction. Turn left on 266 by the Cottontail Ranch and go for about 7.5 miles. Take a left on 774 and drive for another 8 miles until you reach Gold Point. The total distance is about 183.7 miles.

Goodsprings, NV

Goodsprings, Nevada, developed in the 1860s as a mining town. It was originally home to copper mining and named after Joseph Good, who found a spring there. By the 1890s, the town was a major silver and lead-mining center with a population of some 800. There was a post office, school, church, and library. In addition to four mines, there were mills and smelters throughout the year for copper, gold, silver, lead, and zinc.

But when World War II finished, the mines were not profitable anymore due to the lower need for metals. Consequently, Goodsprings fell into disrepair—and the town has only about 230 residents today. The town has a few historic buildings left, though, including the Pioneer Saloon, the oldest saloon in Nevada. Apparently, many ghosts haunt the Pioneer Saloon, adding to the lore of this once-bustling town.

If you are looking for a real-life ghost hunt, then the Goodsprings Ghost Hunt is an ethereal encounter that you can join!

How to get there from Las Vegas:

37 miles south of Las Vegas via I-15 to Jean and State Route 161.

Grafton, UT

Grafton, a historic ghost town in Utah, was of great importance to the history of early Mormon settlers. The residents of Grafton faced numerous hardships – floods and droughts, Indian raids and persecution, lack of supplies, and isolation – but they rebuilt their lives in that area until the 1940s. Today, the ruins of Grafton remain and serve as a reminder of its former self, inviting visitors who are curious about history.

The town is situated at the base of low red cliffs made of Moenkopi sandstone, which form a beautiful contrast with the green river valley and the arid landscape.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Grafton ghost town is just 20 miles from Zion National Park. Take Hwy 9 from Rockville, cross the Virgin River on the historic iron bridge, and follow the unpaved Grafton Road for about 3 miles to reach the ghost town. From Las Vegas, head north on I-15 towards Salt Lake City, take exit 75 for Valley of Fire State Park, return to I-15, take exit 16 for UT-9 towards Hurricane and Zion National Park, pass through Rockville, and turn onto Bridge Road. The total driving distance is about 160 miles.

This is the Ghost town of Grafton Utah

Kelso

Kelso was a vital railroad service stop for the Los Angeles & Salt Lake Railroad and was crucial for the war effort during World War II, delivering essential goods via Union Pacific. The National Park Service saved the iconic train depot from demolition when it was abandoned after passenger service ended in 1964 and restored it to its original glory.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Take I-15 S and exit at Nipton Rd (exit 286). Turn left onto Nipton Rd and continue for approximately 19 miles. Then, turn right onto Cima Rd and continue for about 12 miles. After that, take a left onto Kelso Cima Rd and continue for around 9 miles. Finally, take a right onto Kelbaker Rd and continue for about 2 miles. You have now arrived at Kelso.

This is the Kelso Ghost Town

Ludlow Ghost Town

Ludlow is a small town in the Mojave Desert that lies on Route 40, halfway between Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Most travelers pass by this town, but it has a hidden charm that makes it worth a visit. Ludlow is one of the few places in the desert where you can still see some signs of life. There are not many remnants of the past, but you can explore the old buildings and homesteads that dot the landscape. Ludlow is also a good stop if you are following the historic Route 66, which runs parallel to Route 40. Ludlow is a quiet and peaceful ghost town that offers a glimpse of the desert life.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

To drive to Ludlow, take I-15 S from Las Vegas and follow it for about 140 miles. Take exit 107 for I-40 E toward Needles. Merge onto I-40 E and follow it for about 35 miles. Take exit 50 for Ludlow. Turn right onto Crucero Rd, and you will arrive at your destination. The total distance is about 175 miles.

This is the Ludlow ghost town in California Ludlow Cafe Route 66

Nelson, NV

Nelson was founded in 1775 as a Spanish mining settlement. It was later renamed Eldorado by the Mexicans, who mined for gold and silver in the area. Also called Nelson’s Landing, after Charles Nelson, a steamboat operator who ran a ferry service on the Colorado River, it had a population of about 500 people and a post office, a school, a store, and a hotel. Many of the victims of the 1866 Eldorado Canyon War were buried in the Nelson cemetery. The town declined after a flash flood in 1974, which destroyed most of the buildings and killed several people. Today, it is a tourist attraction with a few residents and a ghost town museum.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

To get to Nelson from Las Vegas, you need to drive for about 60 minutes. Take I-215 E and I-11 S to US-95 S. Then, you need to follow US-95 S for about 10 miles. Next, turn left onto NV-165 and follow it for about 10 miles until you reach Nelson.

The Nelson Landin Ghost Town in Nevada

Oatman, AZ

Oatman is a former mining town located in Mohave County, Arizona that was established in 1915. It was once a thriving gold mining center and one of the largest gold producers in the American West. The town is known for its historic buildings, including many false-front buildings on Main Street that house shops, saloons, and restaurants where shootouts are held. It is also famous for its wild burros that roam the streets. These mules are the descendants of the pack animals used by miners in the past and are protected by law.

The Oatman Hotel is a popular spot, especially for movie fans. In 1939, it was the honeymoon suite for Clark Gable and Carole Lombard. The little town holds the annual Oatman Gold Rush Days and the Oatman Bed Races, which attract many tourists from all over the world who want to experience Oatman’s unique and quirky heritage.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Oatman is a town located in Arizona, approximately 135 miles away from Las Vegas if you take the old Route 66. To get there, start on US-95 S from Las Vegas and continue for around 70 miles. Then, take exit 46 for NV-163 towards Laughlin. Turn left onto NV-163 E and follow it for about 38 miles. After that, turn right onto Boundary Cone Rd and continue for around 14 miles. Finally, turn left onto Oatman Hwy. and drive for around 3 miles. You have now arrived at your destination, Oatman, AZ.

Panamint City Ghost Town

Panamint City is a hidden gem in Death Valley National Park. It was a silver mining town in the 1870s, but now it is a ghost town with only one resident. You can see the old houses, saloons, mines, and even a soda shop that are still standing. The town is in the Panamint Mountains, surrounded by small hills. To get there, you need a four-wheel drive and a lot of water. The hike is about seven miles long and very challenging. You will cross a creek, climb over rocks, and follow an old road. You can find water at Thompson Camp, an old cabin above the town.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Take I-15 N and follow it for about 20 miles; use exit 64 for US-95 N toward Reno and follow it for about 100 miles. Turn left onto NV-267 and follow it for about 20 miles. Go right onto Panamint Valley Road and follow it for about 16 miles. Turn left onto Wildrose Road and follow it for about 10 miles. Take a right turn onto Panamint City Road and follow it for about 7 miles until you reach Panamint City.

A view of a rusty mining cart and rail system at the Panamint City Ghost Town

Pioche, NV

Pioche, a historic town in Nevada, was once a thriving silver mining center in the 1870s. With a population of around 6,000 at its peak, it became notorious for frequent conflicts over mining claims and disputes, making it one of the most violent towns in the Old West. The town’s “Million-Dollar Courthouse” was also infamous for scandal. However, today, Pioche is a peaceful place that offers small-town hospitality and attractions, such as Thompson Opera House, Boot Hill Cemetery, Cathedral Gorge State Park, and Echo Canyon State Park.

To get there from Las Vegas:

Pioche is located 175 miles northeast of Las Vegas. To get there, you need to take I-15 to the turnoff at US 93, turn north for 85 miles to Ash Springs, and continue on US 93 east to Caliente. From Caliente, it’s about a 25-mile drive to Pioche. The total travel time from Las Vegas to Pioche is approximately 3 hours. You will need to take I-15 North, US-93 North, and NV-321 North to reach Pioche. Once you reach Pioche, continue on NV-321 North for about 12 miles until you arrive at your destination.

This is the main street of the Pioche Nevada Ghost Town

Potosi Ghost Town

Potosi, also known as Potosi Camp, was formerly named Crystal City in the 1870s. It is a deserted mining town located in Clark County, Nevada, with an elevation of 5,705 feet. The Potosi mine was discovered by Mormons from the Las Vegas Mission in 1856, and it is believed to be the oldest lode mine in Nevada. The mine was a major producer of lead, zinc, and silver until the early 20th century. The town was founded in 1856 and abandoned in the 1940s. Today, visitors can explore the historical buildings, old vehicles, and the mine at Potosi, but they should be cautious because of the rough terrain and wildlife in the area.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Head south on I-15 S toward Los Angeles. Take exit 33 for NV-160 W/Blue Diamond Rd toward Pahrump. Keep right at the fork, follow signs for NV-160 W/Blue Diamond Rd, and merge onto NV-160 W/Blue Diamond Rd. Continue on NV-160 W for about 22 miles. Turn left onto Potosi Rd. Continue on Potosi Rd for approximately 5 miles. You will reach Potosi or Potosi Camp (Crystal City) at an elevation of 5705 feet.

The Potosi Camp Ghost Town

Randsburg

Randsburg was a gold mining town founded in 1895 at the Rand Mine. With a population today of about 70, it is an authentic Western ghost town. Located in Kern County, California, it was established in 1895 after gold was discovered in the Rand Mine. Randsburg soon became the largest gold producer in Southern California and attracted miners and settlers from far and wide. Nowadays, it is considered a living ghost town with only about 70 residents, but it has many preserved buildings and relics that showcase its rich history.

Popular attractions:

  • Randsburg Art Gallery showcases paintings created by local artist Hoot Smith and other artworks.
  • Randsburg Museum is dedicated to exhibiting artifacts and photographs from the town’s mining history.
  • X-15 Monument Site serves as a tribute to the experimental rocket plane that flew over the area during the 1960s.
  • The Joint is a saloon that has been a part of the town’s history and serves drinks and food.
  • Randsburg City Jail is a wooden structure that was used to house the town’s lawbreakers.
  • The Church of St. Barbara is a wooden church that still conducts religious services.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Take I-15 South, exit at 179 for CA-58 West, continue for 113 miles, take exit 165 for US-395 South, continue for 19 miles, turn left onto CA-178 West, continue for 20 miles, turn right onto Randsburg Red Mountain Road, continue for 4 miles, turn left onto Butte Avenue and continue for 0.3 miles to reach Randsburg.

This is the General Store in the Randsburg living ghost town Death Valley California

Rhyolite Ghost Town

Rhyolite was established in 1904 as a gold mining town. The discovery of gold in the area saw the town’s population rise to an estimated 10,000 people, becoming one of the largest cities in Nevada. The town boasted a railroad station, a stock exchange, a hospital, a school, a newspaper, and an opera house. It also had modern amenities such as electric lights, water mains, telephones, and automobiles. However, the financial panic of 1907 caused the mines to close and the investors to withdraw, leading to Rhyolite’s eventual decline. The town was abandoned by 1920, becoming a ghost town.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

To reach Rhyolite Ghost Town from Las Vegas, you need to drive approximately 140 miles northwest. Take US 95 north to Beatty, then turn west onto State Route 374. Follow this road for 4 miles until you reach Rhyolite Ghost Town. The journey takes about 2 hours. To get there, you must first take I-15 S, then I-215 E, and finally, I-11 S to US-95 N. After that, continue on US-95 N for about 100 miles before turning left onto NV-374.

Rhyolite Nevada Ghost Town

Sandy & Sandy Valley, NV

A small milling community that sprang up in the 1890s to service the Keystone Mine in the nearby Spring Mountains.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Sandy and Sandy Valley are located 51 miles southwest of Las Vegas. Drive for an hour. Take I-15 South and then NV-160 West to Kingston Road. Turn right and drive 18 miles to Sandy. Keep driving on Kingston Road for 5 miles to reach Sandy Valley.

Searchlight, NV

This mining town began around 1879 and, in 1907, was the most critical community in southern Nevada. However, by 1910, the depletion of high-grade ore had soon reduced Searchlight’s population significantly, and those remaining made a living from ranching or catering to highway traffic.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Searchlight is located approximately 57 miles south of Las Vegas on US 95. To get there from Las Vegas, you will need to drive for about 1 hour. Take I-515 S, I-11 S, and US-95 S to reach Searchlight. Once you are on US-95 S, continue driving for approximately 55 miles until you reach your destination.

Silver Reef Ghost Town

Silver Reef is a ghost town with a rich history of silver mining in the early nineteenth century. The town, originally called Rockpile, was home to over 2,000 people who extracted more than $10 million worth of silver from the nearby hills. However, the town faced many challenges, such as the lack of a nearby mill and railhead, which were over 100 miles away. The town’s fortunes changed when the Walker Brothers and William Barbee built a mill to process the silver ore and crush the rock. Silver Reef has a unique charm and authenticity. The town is located fifteen miles northeast of St. George, Utah, and offers visitors a chance to see various ruins, preserved buildings, and a museum.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

To drive to Silver Reef Ghost Town from Las Vegas, start on I-15 N and follow it for about 120 miles. Take exit 16 for UT-9 E toward Hurricane/Zion National Park. Turn right onto UT-9 E and continue for about 9 miles. Go left onto S Main St and follow it for about 4 miles. Take a right onto Silver Reef Rd and drive for about 2 miles. Turn left onto Wells Fargo Rd, and you will reach your will have arrived at Silver Reef Ghost Town.

The Silver Reef Ghost Town in Utah

St. Thomas Ghost Town

Established in 1865 by Mormon settlers sent by Brigham Young, St. Thomas was a small town with less than 500 residents. It was named after Thomas Smith, one of the town’s leaders. It had a post office, school, church, store, and a ferry service across the Muddy River. In the 1930s, the Federal government purchased the town to create Lake Mead, causing most residents to move. When the water level of Lake Mead rose after the Hoover Dam was constructed in 1935, the town was submerged and abandoned by 1936. Today, it is a ghost town underwater and visible only when the lake level is low.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

St. Thomas Ghost Town is located 67 miles Northeast of Las Vegas in the Moapa Valley near Overton, off the I-15. To reach St. Thomas Ghost Town from Las Vegas, you have to drive for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. You need to take I-15 N and NV-169 N to St. Thomas. After that, follow NV-169 N for around 15 miles until you arrive at St. Thomas.

The Saint Thomas Ghost Town at Lake Mead Nevada

Zzyzx

Zzyzx is a small town in the Mojave Desert of California. Curtis Springer founded it in 1944 as a health resort and spa. Springer claimed to have natural hot springs and mineral waters that could heal all health problems, but they were actually artificial and heated by a boiler.

In the 1960s, the government shut down the resort as Springer was exposed as a fraud and a quack. The land was taken over by California State University, which established the Desert Studies Center there in 1976. Visitors can now explore Springer’s resort, Lake Tuendae, Soda Springs, and the Mojave River and enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and camping.

How to get there from Las Vegas:

Take I-15 S and exit at Zzyzx Rd (exit 239). Turn left onto Zzyzx Rd and continue for about 4 miles. You have arrived at Zzyzx.

The Zzyzx Road Ghost Town abandoned Mineral Springs Spa

If you are interested in ghostly towns and relics of the past, check these out!

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