How to Plan Your Visit to Nelson Ghost Town | A Complete Guide
When exploring the beauty and history of Southern Nevada, Nelson Ghost Town offers a unique experience that complements any visit to the Lake Mead Mohave region. Located just an hour’s drive from Lake Mead Mohave Adventures, this abandoned Eldorado Canyon mining town is a fascinating journey stop. Pairing a visit to this historic site with the scenic recreation of Lake Mead offers the perfect balance of history, outdoor adventure, and relaxation.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your visit to Nelson Ghost Town and make the most of your time with Lake Mead Mohave Adventures, turning a simple day trip into a full-fledged Nevada adventure.
The History of Nelson Ghost Town
Nelson Ghost Town, a captivating destination for history lovers, offers a unique charm that is sure to intrigue and excite you. It provides a glimpse into Nevada’s mining past, with the area being one of the most notorious mining sites in the state in the mid-1800s. Originally called Eldorado by Spanish explorers, it was renamed Nelson after prospector Charles Nelson, who met a tragic end in the town’s mines. The town, known for its rough-and-tumble reputation, witnessed more than its fair share of lawlessness and Wild West shootouts.
Today, Nelson Ghost Town preserves much of its original charm. As you explore the town, you’ll see old mining equipment, dilapidated buildings, and even some movie props from films in the area. Walking through Nelson feels like stepping back in time, and you can opt for a guided tour to learn more about the town’s history. The preserved relics make for a great photo opportunity, and if you’re visiting with kids, they’ll love exploring the old-timey surroundings.
Getting to Nelson Ghost Town from Lake Mead Mohave Adventures
If you stay with us at Lake Mead Mohave Adventures, Nelson Ghost Town is an easy and scenic drive away. It’s roughly 55 miles from Cottonwood Cove to Nelson, making for a pleasant drive through Nevada’s desert landscape. You can also take the time to explore the area around Lake Mohave before heading out, soaking in the views of the Colorado River, or taking a short boat ride before your road trip.
For those staying closer to Lake Mead, Nelson is only about an hour’s drive away. The route takes you through some iconic desert terrain, with several photo-worthy stops. We recommend packing a picnic and making a day of it, combining your visit to the ghost town with time at Lake Mead Mohave Adventures before or after you explore the historic town.
When to Visit Nelson Ghost Town
Like many spots around Lake Mead, the best time to visit Nelson Ghost Town is during the cooler months. Spring and fall are ideal, with temperatures ranging from mild to warm, making it easier to explore both the ghost town and the nearby attractions without the intense summer heat. If you plan to visit in the summer, be prepared for the hot desert sun and start your day early or opt for late afternoon visits.
Springtime is particularly beautiful at Nelson and Lake Mead Mohave Adventures, with desert wildflowers in bloom and moderate temperatures for boating, fishing, and hiking along the Colorado River. If you’re considering camping, our campgrounds offer the perfect spot to base your adventure, whether you’re visiting Nelson or Hoover Dam or enjoying a quiet evening by the lake.
Family-Friendly Adventure: Nelson and Lake Mead
Nelson Ghost Town is not just a historical site, but also a fantastic family-friendly destination. Kids will love the quirky relics scattered around town, including rusted-out cars, mining equipment, and even a few airplane wrecks left over from Hollywood film shoots. The area feels like stepping into an old Western movie set, and the town’s rustic charm offers a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
After a few hours of ghost town exploration, head back to Lake Mead Mohave Adventures to relax and enjoy the family-friendly activities. Our campgrounds and marinas offer boating, picnicking, and swimming options, providing a refreshing way to wind down after your trip to Nelson. The combination of history at the ghost town and water recreation at Lake Mead ensures that every family member finds something they love.
Camping and Accommodations
For those looking to extend their adventure, Lake Mead Mohave Adventures offers excellent camping options that are convenient for both the ghost town and the Colorado River. If you’re planning to stay overnight, our campgrounds at Cottonwood Cove are just under an hour from Nelson Ghost Town. This allows you to spend a day exploring Nevada’s mining history before retreating to the shores of Lake Mohave for a relaxing evening around the campfire. Each of our campgrounds features picnic tables, fire pits, and nearby access to boat rentals, making it a convenient and enjoyable choice for overnight stays.
Our campgrounds feature picnic tables, fire pits, and nearby access to boat rentals so that you can start your next day with a morning on the water. If you’d rather not camp, you’ll find accommodations in nearby Boulder City or Las Vegas—just a 45-minute drive from Lake Mead and Nelson Ghost Town.
Outdoor Adventure Near Nelson Ghost Town
One of the best parts about visiting Nelson Ghost Town is its proximity to outdoor adventure. After immersing yourself in the town’s rich history, you can head to Lake Mead Mohave Adventures for a day on the water. The Colorado River and Lake Mohave are both renowned for their recreation opportunities. Rent a boat or kayak from us to explore the stunning shoreline and take in the dramatic desert landscape. If you’re in the mood for a scenic hike, Eldorado Canyon offers some beautiful trails near Nelson Ghost Town, while Lake Mead and Lake Mohave provide even more opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you prefer water sports, hiking, or simply relaxing by the lake, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the beauty of Southern Nevada.
Suppose you’re in the mood for a scenic hike. In that case, Eldorado Canyon offers some beautiful trails near Nelson Ghost Town, while Lake Mead and Lake Mohave provide even more opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you prefer water sports, hiking, or simply relaxing by the lake, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the beauty of Southern Nevada.
Hoover Dam: A Must-See on Your Route
If you’re planning a day trip to Nelson Ghost Town, you can easily add a stop at the iconic Hoover Dam. Located just 30 miles north of Nelson, Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel offering awe-inspiring Colorado River views and Lake Mead. A guided tour will provide insight into the dam’s construction and regional impact.
After visiting Hoover Dam, head back to Lake Mead Mohave Adventures for an afternoon of relaxation by the water or more outdoor activities. Whether you prefer boating, fishing, or hiking, you’ll find plenty of ways to round out your day.
What to Pack
Here are a few essentials to bring along for your trip to Nelson Ghost Town and Lake Mead Mohave Adventures:
- Water and snacks: Nelson is a remote area with few services, so bring enough water and food for your visit.
- Sunscreen and hats: The Nevada sun can be intense, especially in the summer. Protect yourself with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Comfortable shoes: There’s a lot to explore in Nelson and Lake Mead, so wear shoes suitable for walking on uneven desert terrain.
- A camera: You’ll want to capture the unique history of Nelson Ghost Town and the stunning views around Lake Mead.
Start Your Adventure with Lake Mead Mohave Adventures
A trip to Nelson Ghost Town pairs perfectly with a Lake Mead Mohave Adventures visit. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or just soaking up the beautiful desert scenery, we offer the ideal base for your adventure. After exploring the ghost town, return to the lake for a peaceful evening under the stars or enjoy a day of boating and hiking along the Colorado River.
At Lake Mead Mohave Adventures, we’re here to help you make the most of your trip. With easy access to Nelson Ghost Town and all the lake’s outdoor activities, there’s no better place to experience the rugged beauty of Southern Nevada.
Book your stay with us today and start planning your perfect Nevada adventure!
