Take an RV Road Trip Down The Loneliest Road in America

Looking for wide-open spaces, desert landscapes, and a true sense of adventure? Then, an RV road trip along U.S. Highway 50 in Nevada is calling your name. Known as The Loneliest Road in America, this stretch of historic highway runs from Ely to Carson City, taking you through some of the most remote and scenic parts of the country. While services are sparse, the solitude and beauty make it an unforgettable adventure. So, stock up on supplies, order a new set of DuraFlap mud flaps, and get ready to explore one of the most isolated highways in the U.S., knowing your RV or tow rig has the most protection from road debris.

What Makes This Road So Lonely?

When Life Magazine dubbed U.S. Highway 50 “The Loneliest Road in America” in 1986, they meant it as a warning. But today, travelers embrace its desert valleys, mountain ranges, and ghost towns. The highway follows old Pony Express and mining routes and is a place where you can truly disconnect and take in the grandeur of the American West.

Trip Highlights Along U.S. Highway 50 in Nevada

While U.S. Highway 50 may be lonely, it’s far from boring. Must-see stops include:

1. Ely – A Step Back in Time

Your journey begins in Ely, Nevada, a historic mining town that still retains much of its Old West Charm.

• What to do: Take a ride on a historic steam train at the Nevada Northern Railway Museum. If you’re into ghost towns, Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park features eerie beehive-shaped charcoal ovens once used by silver miners.
• Where to stay: KOA of Ely offers full hookups, Wi-Fi, and pull-through sites.

2. Great Basin National Park – A Hidden Gem

A slight detour south of Highway 50 takes you to Great Basin National Park, one of the least-visited yet most stunning national parks in the country.

• What to do: Take a ranger-led tour through the stunning limestone Lehman Caves, hike up Wheeler Peak, or just soak in the pristine night skies, which offer some of the best stargazing in the U.S.
• Where to stay: Baker Creek Campground provides dry camping with breathtaking scenery and wildlife sightings.

3. Eureka – The Friendliest Town on the Loneliest Road in America

Dubbed “The Friendliest Town on the Loneliest Road,” Eureka is a well-preserved 19th-century mining town.

• What to do: Visit the beautifully restored 1880s Eureka Opera House, or step inside the Eureka Sentinel Museum and admire the classic Old West architecture.
• Where to Stay: Silver Sky Lodge & RV Park is a small but convenient stop with full hookups.

4. Austin – A True Desert Outpost

Further west is Austin, a quirky mountain town with a rich mining history.

• What to do: Be sure to check out Stokes Castle, a mysterious 19th-century stone tower built by a wealthy miner. Toquima Cave is home to ancient Native American petroglyphs and is well worth the detour.
• Where to stay: Bob Scott Campground is a U.S. Forest Service campground complete with picnic tables and fire rings.

5. Middlegate Station – A Classic Roadside Stop

If you’re looking for a classic roadside experience, Middlegate Station is a must.

• What to do: This tiny outpost is famous for the Middlegate Monster Burger, a massive challenge for serious eaters. It’s also home to the Shoe Tree – a quirky landmark covered in old shoes.
• Where to stay: Middlegate Station RV Parking offers free overnight parking after you grab a meal inside.

6. Sand Mountain Recreation Area – A Desert Playground

Just before reaching Fallon, you’ll pass Sand Mountain, a massive 600-foot-high sand dune.

• What to do: Off-road enthusiasts will love riding ATVs on the dune. Be sure to listen to the “singing” sand while you’re there, as the fine grains of sand produce an eerie humming sound when the wind blows.
• Where to stay: Sand Mountain Recreation Area has BLM camping available at the base of the dune.

7. Fallon – The Gateway to the Sierra Nevada

Your final stop on The Loneliest Road in America is Fallon, known for its agricultural history and Naval Air Station.

• What to do: The nearby Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge is great for birdwatching, and the Naval Air Station is home to the real-life Top Gun training program.
• Where to stay: Fallon RV Park is well-equipped with full hookups, laundry, and easy access to town.

Tips for RVing the Loneliest Road

• Fuel Up Whenever Possible: Gas stations are few and far between, so always top off your tank when you see one.
• Stock Up on Supplies: Grocery stores are scarce along Highway 50, so stock up before you hit the road.
• Download Maps: Cell service is spotty in remote areas.
• Check Road & Weather Conditions: Desert temperatures can swing dramatically between day and night, and mountain passes can get snow in winter.

Travel The Loneliest Road in America with DuraFlap

A drive along U.S. Highway 50 in Nevada is a true adventure that takes you through some of the most rugged and remote landscapes in America. DuraFlap can keep your RV or tow rig protected along the way. Our high-quality, drill-less mud flaps are designed to provide the most protection front dents and dings on the road. From size to artwork, each pair is custom-built to your specifications. Visit our website to learn more, then load up the RV and get ready to embrace the solitude of The Loneliest Road in America.