In the American Southwest, solitude isn’t a deficit—it’s a kind of fullness. A wide, sunlit hush stretches between scattered homesteads, and the silence feels less like absence and more like intention. Tucked into ridgelines and mesas, these neighborhoods offer a slower grammar of living, where days are shaped by shadow lines and wind direction, not commutes or curb appeal.
Places like Yarnell, Arizona, where the Weaver Mountains cradle homes with quiet dignity, or Pine Valley, Utah, where a few lucky souls live under tall trees and even taller stars—these aren’t places you stumble upon. They’re the kind of places you seek when noise starts sounding like clutter, and you want something steadier, quieter, more elemental.
There’s a generosity in their landscapes—sunlight that falls like honey on rock, skies so wide they feel like permission. The neighborhoods here are less about layout and more about relationship: with land, with weather, with time. They remind us that remoteness can be a kind of refuge, that simplicity can feel like luxury when it’s surrounded by space.
These 10 secluded neighborhoods aren’t retreats from life, but deeper entries into it. You’ll find them off the paved maps, where the land still speaks first, and the people know how to listen.
10. Queen, New Mexico – A Quiet Mountain Escape
Tucked away in the Guadalupe Mountains, Queen is a small, unincorporated community in Eddy County, New Mexico. With an estimated population of around 50 residents, this remote area offers a peaceful and secluded atmosphere surrounded by rugged terrain and vast desert landscapes.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Lincoln National Forest, providing ample hiking opportunities, bird watching, and wildlife photography. The community’s economy is primarily centered around ranching and small-scale agriculture, with tourism playing a minor role due to the area’s natural attractions.
Queen’s isolation is part of its charm, as its remote location and limited development create a serene, untouched environment for those seeking quiet mountain living. With minimal light pollution, it’s also an ideal spot for stargazing, adding to its sense of peaceful solitude.
Where is Queen?
Queen is located in southeastern New Mexico, about 27 miles southwest of Carlsbad. It sits along New Mexico State Road 137, a scenic route winding through the mountains and desert, further emphasizing the area’s remoteness.
The nearest larger town, Carlsbad, provides essential services and amenities, but Queen remains well off the beaten path. The journey to Queen involves navigating vast open land, reinforcing the community’s sense of isolation and natural beauty.
This secluded setting makes it a perfect hideaway for those looking to escape the Southwest’s busier, more populated areas.
9. Cibola, Arizona – Seclusion Along the Lower Colorado River
Nestled along the banks of the Lower Colorado River, Cibola is a small community that offers a peaceful and secluded environment.
With just over 200 residents, this area is characterized by its vast agricultural lands and low population density. Residents enjoy the tranquility of rural living, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge.
Outdoor activities abound, including bird watching, fishing, and exploring the rich ecosystems of the river and wetlands. The quiet atmosphere and expansive open spaces make Cibola a haven for those seeking solitude away from bustling cities.
Where is Cibola?
Cibola is located in La Paz County, southwestern Arizona, bordering California along the Colorado River. It sits approximately 20 miles south of Blythe, California, and is accessible via Interstate 10 and Highway 78.
The community’s remote location and proximity to the river create a unique, serene, and picturesque geography. Visitors can reach Cibola by taking rural roads that meander through desert landscapes, adding to the sense of seclusion and adventure.
8. Mount Charleston, Nevada – Alpine Seclusion Near the Desert
Perched high above the desert floor, Mount Charleston is a hidden alpine community offering a cool respite from the heat of Las Vegas. With a small population of around 350 residents, it provides a secluded mountain retreat 35 miles northwest of the city.
The area is known for its forested landscapes, spacious properties, and natural barriers that create a sense of privacy and isolation. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and skiing at the nearby Lee Canyon Resort, immersing themselves in the serene beauty of the Toiyabe National Forest.
The community’s elevation of nearly 7,500 feet offers cooler temperatures and a unique climate compared to the surrounding desert. This blend of high-altitude living and proximity to urban amenities makes Mount Charleston a uniquely secluded neighborhood in Nevada.
Where is Mount Charleston?
Mount Charleston is located in the Spring Mountains of southern Nevada, approximately 35 miles northwest of Las Vegas. Accessible via U.S. Route 95 and State Route 157, the drive takes about an hour from the city through scenic desert landscapes transitioning into alpine forests.
The area’s elevated position in the mountains provides breathtaking views and a sense of seclusion from the urban environment. The winding mountain roads and natural surroundings enhance the peaceful atmosphere, making the journey to Mount Charleston an escape into nature.
7. Pine Valley, Utah – Peaceful Living Among the Pines
Nestled within the Pine Valley Mountains, Pine Valley is a tranquil community that embodies peaceful living among towering pine trees.
With a small population of about 200 residents, it offers a secluded environment far from city life’s hustle. The area is characterized by large wooded lots and limited development, ensuring privacy and a close connection with nature.
Residents enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing in the nearby Pine Valley Reservoir, and exploring the scenic trails of the Dixie National Forest. The slow pace and natural beauty make Pine Valley a serene hideaway for those seeking solitude in southwestern Utah.
Where is Pine Valley?
Pine Valley is located in Washington County, Utah, approximately 35 miles north of St. George. The community is accessible via State Route 18, followed by Pine Valley Road, which winds through picturesque landscapes and mountains.
Its location within the Pine Valley Mountains provides a unique geography of elevated terrain and dense forests. The limited access roads and the surrounding natural features enhance the seclusion, making Pine Valley a peaceful retreat away from urban areas.
6. Hiko, Nevada – The Secluded Heart of Lincoln County
Set in the vast expanse of Nevada’s rural landscape, Hiko is a small, unincorporated community that epitomizes seclusion. With just over 100 people, it offers expansive rural properties and a quiet lifestyle away from urban centers.
The area is surrounded by desert and mountain terrains, providing natural seclusion and open skies.
Residents appreciate the tranquility, privacy, and the opportunity to engage in activities like stargazing, exploring nearby ghost towns, and enjoying the wide-open spaces. Hiko’s rich history and remote location make it a unique destination for those seeking solitude.
Where is Hiko?
Hiko is located in Lincoln County, Nevada, approximately 115 miles north of Las Vegas, along U.S. Route 93. The community sits near the eastern edge of the Pahranagat Valley, surrounded by desert plains and mountain ranges.
The remote geography contributes to its secluded nature, far from major highways and urban development. Visitors can reach Hiko by driving through scenic desert landscapes, embracing the isolation that defines this hidden corner of Nevada.
5. Yarnell, Arizona – A Hidden Gem in the Weaver Mountains
In the Weaver Mountains, Yarnell is a quiet community known for its tranquil atmosphere and natural surroundings. With around 650 residents, it offers sparse housing and a close-knit community feel. The winding mountain roads limit traffic, enhancing privacy and seclusion for those living there.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby attractions like the Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial State Park and the historic downtown area. Yarnell’s elevation provides cooler temperatures and picturesque views, making it a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful mountain lifestyle.
Where is Yarnell?
Yarnell is located in Yavapai County, Arizona, approximately 85 miles northwest of Phoenix along State Route 89. The community sits about 4,800 feet in the Weaver Mountains, providing a unique geographical setting.
The area is characterized by rugged terrain and winding roads, which contribute to its seclusion. Accessing Yarnell involves a scenic drive through mountainous landscapes, enhancing the sense of escape from bustling cities.
4. Pioneertown, California – Seclusion in a Western Movie Set
Originally built as a living movie set in the 1940s, Pioneertown has evolved into a unique and secluded community in the California desert. With around 400 residents, it offers large lot sizes and a quiet, private lifestyle amid a backdrop of historic Western buildings.
The remote desert locale provides stunning natural beauty, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscapes. Residents and visitors can enjoy the cultural heritage, local art scenes, and outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding. Pioneertown’s blend of history and seclusion makes it a distinctive escape in Southern California.
Where is Pioneertown?
Pioneertown is located in San Bernardino County, California, about 125 miles east of Los Angeles and 4 miles northwest of Yucca Valley. Accessible via Pioneertown Road off State Route 62, the drive to this secluded community takes visitors through the scenic Mojave Desert.
The area’s geography includes rugged terrain and vast open spaces, enhancing its secluded character. The proximity to Joshua Tree National Park adds to its appeal, while the remote roads limit traffic, maintaining its peaceful atmosphere.
3. Terlingua Ranch, Texas – Living on the Edge of Big Bend
Spanning over 200,000 acres near Big Bend National Park, Terlingua Ranch is a subdivision located in Brewster County. It is a vast and sparsely populated area offering unparalleled seclusion.
With expansive acre-plus properties and a population of only a few hundred residents, it’s a place where solitude is the norm. The dramatic desert landscapes, including rugged mountains and arid plains, surround the community, providing stunning vistas and a deep connection with nature.
Residents can engage in activities like hiking, stargazing, and exploring the region’s rich history. Terlingua Ranch offers a remote lifestyle for those drawn to the beauty and solitude of the West Texas desert.
Where is Terlingua Ranch?
Terlingua Ranch is located in Brewster County, Texas, bordering Big Bend National Park to the south and east. The area is accessed via State Highway 118 and Terlingua Ranch Road, which takes visitors deep into the remote Chihuahuan Desert.
The rugged terrain and vast distances between properties contribute to its secluded nature. The journey to Terlingua Ranch involves traversing long stretches of open road, emphasizing the isolation and expansive beauty of the region.
2. Crown King, Arizona – A Remote Mountain Retreat
High in the Bradshaw Mountains, Crown King is a historic unincorporated mining community that offers residents unparalleled privacy and seclusion. With a population of around 100 people, it’s accessible primarily by rugged mountain roads, enhancing its remote feel.
The dense forests and rugged terrain provide natural barriers, making it a haven for those seeking to escape the bustle of modern life.
Activities include exploring historic sites, hiking through pine forests, and enjoying the tranquility of mountain living. Crown King’s rich history and secluded setting make it a unique retreat in Arizona’s high country.
Where is Crown King?
Crown King is located in Yavapai County, Arizona, approximately 85 miles north of Phoenix. It is accessible via Crown King Road, a winding dirt road that climbs into the Bradshaw Mountains from the town of Cleator.
The challenging drive, with steep grades and rugged terrain, adds to the town’s isolation. The surrounding Prescott National Forest provides a lush and secluded environment, making Crown King a hidden mountain treasure.
1. Mountain Springs, Nevada – A Hidden Oasis in the Mojave
Nestled between Las Vegas and Pahrump, Mountain Springs is a secluded desert community that serves as a hidden oasis in the Mojave. With a small population of around 100 residents, it features large lots and natural mountainous barriers that provide a tranquil escape from city life.
The Spring Mountains surround the community, offering scenic views and a cooler climate compared to the valley below. Residents enjoy the privacy of sparse development and the beauty of the desert landscape.
Activities include hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the nearby Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Mountain Springs offers a peaceful lifestyle for those seeking solitude within easy reach of urban amenities.
Where is Mountain Springs?
Mountain Springs is located in Clark County, Nevada, along State Route 160 between Las Vegas and Pahrump. It is situated at around 5,500 feet and is within the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area.
The community is accessible via a winding mountain pass, enhancing its secluded feel. The geography of rugged mountains and open desert creates a natural barrier from the surrounding urban areas, making the journey to Mountain Springs a scenic and tranquil experience.
