When I think of Southern Nevada, the bright lights of Las Vegas often come to mind first. But beyond the city’s bustling energy lie secluded towns that offer a different kind of allure.
These hidden gems provide tranquil landscapes, rich histories, and a chance to escape the fast pace of modern life. I’ve explored many of these places myself, discovering the unique charms each one holds.
If you’re yearning for solitude, natural beauty, or just a slice of quiet desert life, these ten secluded towns in Southern Nevada might just be the perfect getaway.
10. Amargosa Valley’s Expansive Horizons
Amargosa Valley, with a population of around 1,500, is a hidden gem near the Nevada-California border that I’ve found to be incredibly serene. The town is known for its vast open spaces and close proximity to Death Valley National Park, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts like me.
Activities include exploring the stunning desert landscapes, visiting the nearby Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, and stargazing under some of the darkest skies I’ve ever seen.
Agriculture and renewable energy projects are the main industries here, contributing to the community’s self-sufficiency.
What makes Amargosa Valley secluded is its remote location and the endless horizons that offer a true escape from urban life. It’s a place where the silence of the desert is both profound and comforting.
Where is Amargosa Valley?
Located in the southern part of Nye County, Amargosa Valley sits about 88 miles northwest of Las Vegas. Its seclusion is heightened by the expansive desert that surrounds it, with few large towns nearby.
Getting there involves a drive along U.S. Route 95 and State Route 373, which always feels like a journey into the heart of solitude for me. The town’s proximity to Death Valley and the lack of light pollution make it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature.
9. The Tranquil Sands of Sandy Valley
Sandy Valley is a small community of around 2,000 residents that I’ve come to appreciate for its peaceful desert living. The area offers spacious properties, ideal for those looking to embrace a rural lifestyle with room for horses and other livestock.
Activities here include horseback riding, community events at the local community center, and enjoying the breathtaking sunsets over the desert sands. With minimal commercial development, the main industries revolve around agriculture and small businesses.
Sandy Valley’s seclusion stems from its location nestled between mountain ranges and its distance from major highways. It’s the kind of place where neighbors know each other, and life moves at a slower, more deliberate pace.
Where is Sandy Valley?
Sandy Valley is situated about 50 miles southwest of Las Vegas, close to the Nevada-California border. Its remoteness is due to its location off the main thoroughfares, accessible primarily via State Route 160 and a series of rural roads.
Driving there, I often feel like I’m leaving the hustle behind as the landscape becomes more expansive and untamed. The surrounding mountains and open desert contribute to the town’s secluded feel, offering a genuine escape for those seeking simplicity and space.
8. Peaceful Desert Life in Indian Springs
Indian Springs, with a population of approximately 1,000, is a quiet community that I’ve found to be a peaceful retreat north of Las Vegas. The town offers open spaces and a slow-paced lifestyle, a stark contrast to the nearby city.
Residents and visitors can enjoy activities like hiking in the surrounding desert, visiting the nearby Creech Air Force Base aviation museum, and watching wildlife.
The main industry here is connected to the Air Force base, which provides employment opportunities while maintaining the area’s tranquility. Indian Springs is secluded due to its sparse population and the vast stretches of desert that envelop it. It’s a place where one can truly disconnect and recharge.
Where is Indian Springs?
Located about 45 miles northwest of Las Vegas along U.S. Route 95, Indian Springs is easy to reach yet feels worlds apart from the city’s bustle. The town’s seclusion is enhanced by the Mojave Desert that surrounds it, offering expansive views and open skies.
Every time I visit, the quiet drive through the desert sets the tone for the serenity that awaits. The simplicity of getting there, paired with the remoteness of the location, makes Indian Springs an accessible escape into solitude.
7. Hidden Oasis of Nelson
Nelson is a tiny ghost town that I’ve discovered to be rich with history and rustic charm. With a population of less than 50, it’s known for the Techatticup Mine, one of Nevada’s oldest and most famous gold mines.
Visitors can tour the mine, explore the quirky collection of vintage vehicles and buildings, and even find unique photo opportunities in this desert oasis. There isn’t much in the way of industry nowadays, aside from tourism related to the mine.
Nelson’s seclusion comes from its remote location and the preserved historic sites that make it feel like a step back in time. It’s a place that captures the imagination and offers a quiet retreat from the modern world.
Where is Nelson?
Nestled in Eldorado Canyon, Nelson is about 25 miles southwest of Boulder City, accessible via Nevada State Route 165. The winding road through the desert and mountains always excites me as it leads to this hidden gem.
The town’s seclusion is due to its off-the-beaten-path location, surrounded by rugged terrain and the Colorado River nearby. Getting there requires a bit of a journey, but the solitude and unique atmosphere make the trip well worth it.
6. The Quiet Community of Searchlight
Searchlight, with a population of around 500, is a historic town that I’ve found to be a quiet haven away from urban centers. Known for its rich mining history dating back to the late 1800s, the town offers a glimpse into Nevada’s past.
Activities include visiting the Searchlight Historic Museum, exploring old mining sites, and enjoying expansive desert views. The main industries are mining and some small businesses catering to travelers.
Searchlight’s seclusion is a result of its location far from major cities and the open desert that surrounds it, creating a serene environment perfect for reflection and relaxation.
Where is Searchlight?
Located about 60 miles south of Las Vegas along U.S. Route 95, Searchlight sits at a crossroads leading to Laughlin and the Colorado River. Its remote setting, away from the hustle of larger towns, gives it a peaceful ambiance that I always appreciate when passing through.
The simplicity of the town and the vastness of the surrounding desert accentuate its secluded nature, making it an ideal spot for those seeking quietude.
5. Mount Charleston’s Alpine Retreat
Mount Charleston is a small mountain village that I’ve come to love for its alpine environment—quite a contrast to the desert below. With a population of around 350, the town is noted for its cooler climate, wooded surroundings, and the towering peaks of the Spring Mountains.
Activities include hiking, skiing at the Lee Canyon resort, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. The primary industries are tourism and hospitality, catering to visitors seeking a mountain escape.
What makes Mount Charleston secluded is its elevation and the dense forest that envelops it, providing an escape from the desert heat and a sense of isolation amid nature.
Where is Mount Charleston?
Just 35 miles northwest of Las Vegas, Mount Charleston is accessible via State Route 157, yet it feels like a world apart. The winding mountain roads leading up to the village always fill me with anticipation for the crisp air and serene environment.
The town’s seclusion is due to its mountainous location and the limited access roads, making it a true retreat from the city’s fast pace. It’s a place where I can breathe deeply and enjoy the tranquility of the alpine setting.
4. Rural Charm of Cal-Nev-Ari
Cal-Nev-Ari is a unique small community with a population of about 350, and it’s one of those places that intrigues me every time I visit.
Located near the intersection of California, Nevada, and Arizona borders, the town offers expansive desert vistas and a distinct small-town atmosphere. Activities include visiting the local casino, flying into the private airstrip, and exploring the surrounding desert.
The main industries are hospitality and aviation-related businesses. Cal-Nev-Ari’s seclusion comes from its remote desert location and the wide-open spaces that surround it, giving it a quiet charm that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Where is Cal-Nev-Ari?
Situated along U.S. Route 95, about 70 miles south of Las Vegas, Cal-Nev-Ari is a bit off the beaten path. I enjoy the drive through the Mojave Desert to get there, as it enhances the feeling of entering a secluded spot.
The town’s proximity to the junction of three states adds to its unique character, while the sparse population and remote setting contribute to its tranquil atmosphere. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to experience rural desert life.
3. Remote Wilderness in Cold Creek
Cold Creek is a secluded area at the foothills of the Spring Mountains that I’ve found to be a haven for nature lovers. With a population of just over 200, residents enjoy large lots and untouched natural surroundings.
The area is famous for its wild horses roaming freely, adding a magical touch to the landscape. Activities include hiking, wildlife spotting, and simply enjoying the peace and quiet of the wilderness.
There are no significant industries here, which helps maintain its untouched charm. Cold Creek’s seclusion is due to its remote location and limited access, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature.
Where is Cold Creek?
Cold Creek is located about 50 miles northwest of Las Vegas, accessible via a turnoff from U.S. Route 95 onto Cold Creek Road. Every time I make the drive, the transition from city to desert to mountain foothills is striking.
The town’s remoteness is heightened by the single road leading in and out and the expansive wilderness that surrounds it. The journey there feels like an adventure into the wild, rewarding visitors with tranquility and natural beauty.
2. Serene Living in Blue Diamond
Blue Diamond is a small village with a population of around 300 that I’ve always found enchanting. Nestled within the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, the town is surrounded by some of Nevada’s most picturesque landscapes.
Activities include hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking on the numerous trails that weave through the stunning red sandstone formations. The main industry is tourism, but the village retains a peaceful, residential feel.
Blue Diamond’s seclusion comes from its location within a protected area and the natural barriers that keep the bustle of Las Vegas at bay. It’s a serene haven for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone seeking a quiet community.
Where is Blue Diamond?
Located just 15 miles southwest of Las Vegas along State Route 159, Blue Diamond is surprisingly close yet feels delightfully removed from the city’s rush. The scenic drive through Red Rock Canyon always leaves me in awe, setting the stage for the village’s tranquil ambiance.
The town’s seclusion is due to its placement within the conservation area and the limited development allowed there. Access is straightforward, but the enveloping natural beauty makes it feel like a secluded paradise.
1. The Historic Mining Town of Goodsprings
Goodsprings is a quiet, historic town with a population of about 200 that holds a special place in my heart. Nestled away from the bustle of Las Vegas, it’s known for its old mining sites and the famous Pioneer Saloon, one of Nevada’s oldest saloons.
Activities include exploring the remnants of the mining era, grabbing a bite at the saloon, and hiking in the surrounding hills. There isn’t much industry left besides tourism, which revolves around the town’s rich history.
Goodsprings’ seclusion is due to its location off the main highways and its small size, offering a peaceful atmosphere that lets you step back in time. It’s a charming escape where the echoes of the past blend seamlessly with the quiet of the desert.
Where is Goodsprings?
Goodsprings is situated about 35 miles southwest of Las Vegas, accessible via Interstate 15 and State Route 161. The short drive through the desert leads to a town that feels hidden away, a contrast I’ve always appreciated. Its seclusion is enhanced by the surrounding arid landscape and the lack of urban development.
Getting there is easy, but the sense of discovery upon arrival makes it feel like a well-kept secret, perfect for those looking to uncover a piece of Nevada’s history while enjoying a tranquil setting.
