12 Old Ruins to Explore in Nevada

The Baker Archaeological Site is a significant cultural and historical site located in White Pine County, Nevada. It is situated near the town of Baker and covers an area of over 450 acres. The site is home to a number of prehistoric and historic artifacts and structures, including the remains of a Native American village that dates back to the 13th century.

Buckland's Station, is more than just a historical landmark. Founded in the early 1850s by one of the county's earliest settlers, Granville William "Billy" Buckland, this station was once a hub of activity for travelers and traders alike. Nowadays, you can visit the site and catch a glimpse of what it was like to live in the Wild West. But let's be real, the real draw is the quirky gift shop where you can find everything from Nevada-shaped fridge magnets to cowboy hats.

Chollar Mansion is a historic landmark located in Storey County. Built in 1863 during the height of the Comstock Lode mining boom, the mansion was owned by Henry P. Comstock, the discoverer of the famous Comstock Lode.The mansion is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture, with ornate details and intricate woodwork. The interior features luxurious furnishings, including a grand piano and a chandelier that once graced the halls of the Palace of Versailles.

Dangberg Home Ranch Historic Park is a significant historical site located in Douglas County, Nevada, which offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. The park covers an area of 5,000 acres and features several well-preserved historical buildings and artefacts that showcase the daily lives of early settlers and ranchers.The Dangberg family, who settled in the region in the mid-19th century, were among the first non-native settlers in the area.

The Elgin Schoolhouse State Historic Site is a veritable time capsule that transports visitors back to a bygone era. This charming brick building, which was erected way back in 1922, stands as a testament to the grit and resilience of the pioneers who settled in this rugged part of the country. As a history buff, it warms my heart to see such painstakingly preserved artifacts, such as the original wooden desks and chalkboards, which still bear the scribbles and doodles of long-forgotten pupils.

This little gem of a destination boasts one of the largest collections of petroglyphs in the country, with over 10,000 etchings carved into the rocks by the ancient Native American tribes that once called this area home. Not only is it a historic marvel, but the surrounding desert landscape offers breathtaking views and the opportunity to see wildlife such as bighorn sheep and golden eagles. And let's not forget the thrill of hiking and rock climbing in the midst of it all.

A ghost town from early twentieth century, when many homesteaders attempted to farm in the Great Basin. Metropolis was a project of an eastern businessman, Harry L. Pierce, intended to be the center of a huge farming district.

The Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park is a treasured landmark in Clark County. It is the site of the first permanent non-native settlement in the Las Vegas Valley, established by Mormon missionaries in 1855 as a trading post for travelers on the Salt Lake City - Los Angeles Road. Today, the park features a restored adobe fort, which houses a museum that showcases the history of the fort, the local area, and the Mormon pioneers who settled there.

Rhodes Cabin is a well-preserved historic structure located in White Pine County, Nevada. It was built in the late 19th century by a rancher named John Rhodes, who used it as a base camp for his cattle drives. The cabin is typical of the log cabin style that was popular in the American West during this period, with its simple design and sturdy construction.

Silver Terrace Cemetery is a historic cemetery, established in 1868 and was used primarily for the burial of miners and their families during the height of the Comstock Lode mining boom.The cemetery features a variety of grave markers, including ornate headstones, simple wooden crosses, and unmarked graves. Many of the graves belong to prominent figures from the early days of Storey County, including politicians, businessmen, and law enforcement officers.

Stoke's Castle in Lander County, Nevada is an impressive sight to behold. Built in the early 1890s, it stands tall on a hilltop overlooking the picturesque valley below. Legend has it that it was constructed by a wealthy businessman named Anson Phelps Stokes as a place to escape the harsh realities of city life. But let's be real, who wouldn't want to escape the city and retreat to a castle in the middle of nowhere?

The Virginia City Historic District is a well-preserved 19th-century mining town. Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the district is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.The town was founded in 1859 following the discovery of the Comstock Lode, one of the richest silver strikes in American history. Virginia City quickly became one of the most important mining towns in the West, producing millions of dollars worth of gold and silver.