In times of social distancing, what better way to spend the day than exploring historic ghost towns? Just outside of Reno, you’ll find several towns with little to no residents, but buildings reminiscent of when it was a bustling town. Below are some of the most beloved ghost towns outside of Reno to explore.

Fort Churchill State Historic Park

About an hour outside of Carson City lies the Fort Churchill State Park. It’s a former United States Army Fort that was built to protect early settlers as they made their way across the American West. The fort’s ruins make a great adventure spot and can help you picture what life was like 150 years ago.

Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park

With a rich mining history, a crumbling ghost town, and 225 million-year-old marine reptile fossils, Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park has it all. You can check out many of the original buildings from 1890 when the town was first built.

Gold Point Ghost Town

Near the Nevada/California border lies a silver mining camp that was established in the early 1860s. The buildings from the Gold Point Ghost Town are still intact, so be sure to check out these historic homes, an old general store, bank buildings, stamp mill sites, and even a modern-day Sagebrush Saloon or two.

Unionville Ghost Town

Between Lovelock and Winnemucca is a little backcountry town with a population of fewer than 24 people and has the cabin ruins of a pretty famous former resident, Mark Twain! Unionville Ghost Town was founded in 1861, and it’s a must-visit for any history buff.

Virginia City

It wouldn’t be a true list of the best Nevada ghost towns without including Virginia City. It was home of the largest silver strike in the world, and visitors can stroll original wooden boardwalk-lined streets, visit haunted hotels, and sit in old-time saloons.

There are tons of places in Reno that are full of history, and we love all of the new and old places there are to explore. If you have questions about any of the communities in the area, or if you’re looking to buy or sell a home, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to help you begin your home search. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.