Back in 1881, the region that is now known as Hawthorne was booming! With several significant golf strikes happening in nearby mining camps, the Carlson & Colorado Railroad established a route through this sought-after gold mining hotspot.
Nicknamed “America’s Patriotic Home,” Hawthorne calls to military history enthusiasts from near and far. In this small Nevada town, you’ll find thousands of artillery storage bunks, a munitions museum, and an annual legendary Armed Forces Day celebration, held the third weekend of May for the last 70 years.
History buffs will also enjoy Fletcher’s Station, a once-important freight stop for travelers heading through Lucky Boy Pass. There’s also a nearby ghost town worth visiting. The population of Aurora once reached 5,000 back in 1863, however, in recent years, the only things still standing are dilapidated mining shafts, crumbling house foundations and eerie tombstones.
For those looking to experience the splendor of the Nevada desert, there are many ways to please the outdoor recreationalists in your party. First, spend the day at Walker Lake, a 50-square-mile oasis. Here you can kayak, fish, hike, horseback ride, ATV, bike and more. Just be cautious during the hottest peak of the summer. Orb-weaving spiders like to move in when the weather gets extremely hot.
Another draw to the area of Hawthorne is the abundance of bighorn sheep, antelope, mule deer, wild horses, chakur and other wildlife. No matter which part of the area you’re visiting, you’re sure to see plenty of wildlife.
