Nelson, Nevada Ghost Town
- Sheryl Linn
- Jan 14
- 2 min read
Roger and I visited Nelson, Nevada, in August of 2025 while on a road trip through Arizona, Nevada, and California. This ghost town was fascinating and has quite a history. We highly recommend it to those interested in history and exploring days gone by.
Nelson Ghost Town is an abandoned gold mine located in southern Nevada, south of Las Vegas. Visitors may join a guided tour and check out the restored houses, historical artifacts, and a collection of vintage cars. (The two photos below are online photos.)
When Roger and I arrived in Nelson, we checked in at the General Store, where we met the owners, the Nelson family, who live on-site. While I did get a kick out of the "New Rules" sign as we walked up to the entrance, the owners were very welcoming and gave us an orientation of the ghost town.
Roger and I had the opportunity to take a self-guided tour of the grounds, which we did. When I asked if I could take photos, I was given the go-ahead and informed that there is only a charge for professional photographers using the site for commercial purposes. I assured them that our photos were for personal use and that nobody would want to purchase them. We all had a good laugh.
Nelson was once a bustling mining community during the gold rush. The town flourished in the early 1900s when gold was discovered in the nearby Eldorado Canyon mountains of the Eldorado Wilderness. Miners and their families flocked to the area, setting up homes, businesses, and a school, creating a vibrant community.
The Nelson family has taken steps to preserve the Nelson Ghost Town and its historical significance while also making it accessible to the public. Visitors can discover an array of vintage buildings, rusty old cars, and various artifacts that depict daily life during the mining era. The town's layout and remnants tell a compelling story of what life was like.
Some notable features of the ghost town include an old jailhouse, a charming general store, and numerous buildings. The structures are adorned with relics from the past, and many of the items inside are original to the town, adding authenticity to the experience.
The backdrop of the Nevada desert enhances a sense of isolation. Surrounding the town are stunning mountains and desert landscapes, offering views that invite photographers and nature lovers alike.
For more information about Nelson Ghost Town, visit:
