The High Rock Desert is home to some of the most secluded and resilient communities in the American West. Nestled among ancient lava flows, expansive playas, and remote canyons, these towns remain far removed from modern hustle, offering stunning desert landscapes, rich pioneer history, and untamed solitude. Once traversed by emigrants along the California Trail, this arid terrain has long been a place of self-reliance, adventure, and quiet isolation.
From former mining outposts to tiny ranching enclaves, each town in the High Rock Desert carries a unique story of survival and adaptation in one of the most extreme environments in the country. Whether you’re drawn to historic ghost towns, vast open skies, or the deep silence of the desert, these ten hidden communities provide a rare glimpse into the wild, untouched beauty of the High Rock Desert.
10. Eagleville: Nestled in the Desert’s Embrace
Eagleville, with a population of just over 50 residents, is a tiny community offering unparalleled peace and quiet. This quaint town is a haven for those seeking solitude, surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Surprise Valley and the Warner Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and soaking in nearby hot springs. Agriculture, particularly cattle ranching, is the mainstay of the local economy, contributing to its rustic charm. Eagleville’s remoteness and minimal commercial development make it a perfect spot for anyone looking to unplug and reconnect with nature.
Where is Eagleville?
Located in northeastern California, Eagleville sits near the border of Nevada, nestled within the expansive landscapes of the Great Basin. Its seclusion is heightened by its distance from major highways and cities, with the nearest town, Cedarville, about 20 miles north. Accessible mainly via State Route 447 and a network of rural roads, getting to Eagleville is a journey through serene and sparsely populated areas, which adds to its sense of being off the beaten path.
9. Fort Bidwell: At the Edge of Wilderness
Fort Bidwell is a small unincorporated community with an approximate population of 200 people. This historic town was once a military fort in the 19th century and now offers a peaceful setting rich in history. Visitors can explore the old fort structures, enjoy horseback riding, and experience traditional Native American culture from the nearby Fort Bidwell Indian Community. The local economy is primarily supported by ranching and some small-scale tourism. Its secluded nature stems from its location in the far northeastern corner of California, offering a quiet life away from urban centers.
Where is Fort Bidwell?
Fort Bidwell is located in Modoc County, California, near the borders of Nevada and Oregon. Sitting at the northern end of the Surprise Valley, it’s surrounded by the Warner Mountains and expansive desert plains. The town’s isolation is due to its distance from major highways and limited access via rural roads. Travelers can reach Fort Bidwell by taking State Route 299 to smaller county roads, making the journey part of the adventure into this tranquil wilderness.
8. Cedarville: Gateway to Surprise Valley
Cedarville is a charming town with a population of approximately 500 residents. Known as the gateway to Surprise Valley, it offers a blend of small-town hospitality and scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as exploring local art galleries, visiting the Modoc County Historical Museum, and attending the annual Country & Blues Festival. Agriculture and ranching are the primary industries, contributing to its rural atmosphere. Cedarville’s secluded nature comes from its remote location and the surrounding vast high-desert landscapes, providing a tranquil setting away from crowded urban areas.
Where is Cedarville?
Situated in the northeastern corner of California, Cedarville lies close to the Nevada border. The town is nestled at the base of the Warner Mountains, offering stunning views and outdoor recreation opportunities. Its seclusion is enhanced by the long distances to major cities and limited access via Highway 299. Travelers can reach Cedarville by taking a scenic drive through the mountainous terrain, which adds to the feeling of escaping into a peaceful retreat.
7. Fields: A Stopover to Tranquility
Fields is a tiny unincorporated community in southeastern Oregon with fewer than 20 residents. Despite its size, it’s known for the famous Fields Station, where travelers can enjoy legendary milkshakes and hearty meals. The area offers opportunities for bird watching, soaking in hot springs, and exploring the Alvord Desert’s unique landscapes. Ranching is the predominant industry, with vast open spaces dedicated to cattle grazing. Fields’ seclusion is underscored by its sparse population and the surrounding wide-open desert, making it a tranquil stopover for those journeying through the region.
Where is Fields?
Fields is located in Harney County, Oregon, near the state’s southern border with Nevada. Nestled at the western edge of Steens Mountain, it is far from major highways and urban centers. The community can be reached via Oregon Route 205, which winds through remote and scenic high-desert terrain. The isolation of Fields is accentuated by the vast distances between it and the next nearest towns, providing a true sense of serenity for visitors and residents alike.
6. Sulphur: Echoes of Mining History
Sulphur is a ghost town that harks back to Nevada’s rich mining past. Once bustling with activity due to sulfur mining operations, it now stands mostly abandoned, offering a glimpse into the early 20th-century boomtown era. Visitors can explore remnants of old buildings and mining equipment, capturing the essence of a bygone time. There are no active industries today, and the lack of amenities contributes to its seclusion. Sulphur’s desolate surroundings and historical ruins make it a fascinating spot for history buffs and adventure seekers.
Where is Sulphur?
Located in Humboldt County, Nevada, Sulphur lies within the Black Rock Desert region, not far from the High Rock Canyon. Its isolation is profound, with miles of desert stretching in all directions and no nearby towns. Accessing Sulphur requires traveling on dirt roads off State Route 49 (the Jungo Road), making four-wheel-drive vehicles advisable. The remote location and challenging terrain ensure that only the most dedicated explorers visit this ghostly remnant of Nevada’s mining heritage.
5. Soldier Meadows: Wilderness Retreat
Soldier Meadows is a remote area known for its natural hot springs and as a gateway to the untouched wilderness of the High Rock Desert. With an extremely small population, it’s more of a ranch and lodge than a traditional town. Visitors can enjoy soaking in the hot springs, wildlife viewing, and exploring historical sites like the remnants of the Lassen-Applegate Emigrant Trail. The primary activity here is eco-tourism, with the Soldier Meadows Ranch offering accommodations for those seeking a true wilderness experience. Its seclusion is a major draw for guests looking to disconnect and enjoy pristine natural surroundings.
Where is Soldier Meadows?
Soldier Meadows is situated in northwestern Nevada, within Humboldt County, about 60 miles north of Gerlach. The area is deeply secluded, accessible via rugged dirt roads that require careful navigation and sometimes four-wheel-drive vehicles. Its remote location within the Black Rock Desert-High Rock Canyon Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area emphasizes the sense of isolation. Getting there involves a scenic but challenging journey through unpopulated desert landscapes, adding to its allure as a wilderness retreat.
4. Vya: Nevada’s Hidden Hamlet
Vya is an almost forgotten settlement in Washoe County, Nevada, with a current population that is virtually nonexistent. Once a modest ranching community, today it’s considered a ghost town, offering solitude and an authentic sense of the High Rock Desert’s vastness. The remnants of old buildings and the expansive rangeland provide a snapshot of the area’s history. There are no active industries, and its secluded location makes it an intriguing destination for those interested in exploring off-the-beaten-path locales.
Where is Vya?
Vya is located in the far northwestern corner of Nevada, near the borders of California and Oregon. Its seclusion is significant, with the closest towns being Cedarville to the west and Gerlach to the south, both many miles away. Access is primarily via unpaved roads like Nevada State Route 34, which traverse the remote desert landscape. The isolation of Vya, surrounded by vast tracts of undeveloped land, makes it a place where visitors can truly experience the serenity of the High Rock Desert.
3. Denio: Oasis on the Edge
Denio is a small community straddling the Nevada-Oregon border, home to around 50 residents. The town offers a quiet refuge with amenities like the Denio Junction Motel and a small store serving locals and travelers alike. Outdoor activities abound, including fishing in the nearby Trout Creek Mountains, rockhounding, and exploring the surrounding desert. Ranching is the primary industry, contributing to its rural character. Denio’s seclusion stems from its remote setting and limited population, making it an ideal spot for those seeking an escape.
Where is Denio?
Situated in Humboldt County, Nevada, Denio lies along State Route 140 near the Oregon state line. Its remote location places it hours away from larger towns, emphasizing its seclusion. The surrounding terrain includes high desert plains and rugged mountain ranges, adding to the area’s natural beauty. Accessing Denio involves traveling long stretches of highway through sparsely populated regions, making the journey part of the experience for visitors seeking solitude.
2. Empire: The Revived Ghost Town
Empire is a fascinating example of a revived ghost town, with a population that has grown to around 200 residents after nearly becoming deserted. Once a company town for the United States Gypsum Corporation, it was closed in 2011 but has since been repurchased and rejuvenated. Now, it offers a unique living experience with a general store, a swimming pool, and housing for its residents. Outdoor activities include exploring the nearby Black Rock Desert and attending events like Burning Man. The seclusion of Empire lies in its remote desert location and small community size.
Where is Empire?
Located in Washoe County, Nevada, Empire is about 100 miles north of Reno, along State Route 447. Its proximity to the Black Rock Desert places it in one of the most remote regions of the state. The town is accessible by a long drive through high-desert scenery, enhancing its sense of isolation. The surrounding landscape of flat dry lakebeds and distant mountain ranges contributes to Empire’s secluded ambiance.
1. Gerlach: Gateway to the Black Rock Desert
Gerlach, with a population of approximately 200 people, serves as the last outpost before entering the vast expanse of the Black Rock Desert. The town offers a unique blend of rugged charm and community spirit. Visitors can enjoy the local café, explore nearby hot springs, and experience the starting point for adventures into the desert, including the famous Burning Man festival held annually on the playa. The primary industries include tourism and services related to the event and outdoor recreation. Gerlach’s seclusion is due to its remote location and the surrounding uninhabited desert, making it a true gateway to solitude.
Where is Gerlach?
Situated in Washoe County, Nevada, Gerlach lies at the end of State Route 447, about 110 miles north of Reno. The town’s isolation is accentuated by the miles of open desert surrounding it, with the Black Rock Desert to the east and the Granite Range to the west. Accessing Gerlach requires a long drive through sparsely populated areas, contributing to its remote feel. The journey itself, through scenic high-desert landscapes, underscores the sense of departing from the everyday and entering a place of tranquility.
