Clowning Around on an RV Roadtrip to the Clown Motel in Nevada

Traveling in an RV opens up a world of adventure, allowing you to embark on a journey that combines the thrill of discovering unusual and fascinating roadside attractions with the freedom to camp amidst breathtaking landscapes and partake in exhilarating outdoor activities. The beauty of RV travel lies in its ability to provide both flexibility and comfort, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an unforgettable exploration of the offbeat wonders of the world, like the Clown Motel in Nevada.

One of the greatest advantages of RV travel is the ease with which you can visit peculiar and captivating roadside attractions that might otherwise go unnoticed. These hidden gems are scattered across the vast American landscape, waiting to be discovered by curious travelers. With an RV, you have the freedom to deviate from traditional tourist routes and embark on spontaneous detours to explore these fascinating landmarks, adding a touch of whimsy and uniqueness to your journey.

Moreover, an RV provides the ultimate flexibility to camp amidst nature’s grandeur and engage in thrilling outdoor activities. Whether it’s setting up camp near a tranquil lake, amidst towering mountains, or in a serene forest, the RV becomes your home away from home, offering both comfort and convenience. After a day of sightseeing and adventure, you can retreat to the serenity of nature, enjoying the soothing sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves as you unwind in the midst of picturesque surroundings. RV camping allows you to immerse yourself in the great outdoors, indulging in hiking, biking, fishing, or simply relishing a peaceful evening by a crackling campfire, roasting marshmallows, and sharing stories with fellow adventurers.

Scary or silly? You decide at the Clown Motel in Nevada.

The Clown Motel in Tonopah, Nevada, is a roadside attraction that has become famous for its clown-themed decor and its proximity to an abandoned cemetery. The motel is located in a remote part of the Nevada desert and is home to over 3,000 clown dolls and figures, making it a must-see destination for fans of the macabre.

History of the Clown Motel

The Clown Motel was originally built in 1985 by Bob Perchetti, a former miner who had worked in the nearby Mizpah Mine. Perchetti had a passion for collecting clown memorabilia and decided to turn his collection into a roadside attraction. The motel quickly became a popular destination for travelers passing through the area. In 2017, the motel was sold to new owners, who have continued to maintain the clown theme and have added new attractions, such as a clown-themed gift shop and a museum dedicated to the history of clowns.

An aerial view of Tonopah, Nevada, home of the Clown Motel.

Haunted History of the Clown Motel

The Clown Motel is located next to an abandoned cemetery, which is said to be the final resting place of many miners who died in the nearby mines. Some visitors to the motel have reported seeing ghostly apparitions and hearing strange noises coming from the cemetery. In addition to the cemetery, some guests have reported strange occurrences inside the motel itself. Some have claimed to have seen the ghost of a young girl in the hallway, while others have reported hearing strange noises coming from the rooms. Despite the reports of hauntings, many visitors to the Clown Motel come for the novelty of staying in a motel filled with clown memorabilia. The motel has been featured in numerous television shows and has become a popular destination for fans of the strange and unusual.

No desire to reserve a night at the Clown Motel? Stay in your RV at Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park.

While a stop at the Clown Museum may be one of the most unusual stops on your road trip, you may not want to stay there that long! In that case, consider driving on to one of Nevada’s amazing state parks for a few relaxing days in the great outdoors. Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park is a remote park located in Nye County, Nevada that offers a unique camping experience in the heart of the Nevada desert. The park is open all year round, but extreme winter weather may prohibit access to the park. Although it’s 120 miles from Tonopah, it offers a variety of outdoor activities your family will enjoy.

RV Camping at Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park

The park offers 14 campsites that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The campsites are primitive and do not offer hookups, but there are water taps and clean pit toilets available. RVs up to 25 feet in length can be accommodated at the campsites. Reservable campsites are also available by phone.

Explore abandoned buildings in the ghost town at Berlin-Ichthyosaur state park.

Family Activities at Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park

Apart from the unique fossils that will take you back to prehistoric times, there are many other activities that families can enjoy at Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park. Here are some of the activities that families can enjoy:

  • Explore the ghost town of Berlin, which was once a thriving mining town in the late 1800s. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the townsite and learn about the history of the area.
  • Take a guided tour of the Fossil House, which houses the remains of the Ichthyosaur, a prehistoric marine reptile that lived during the time of the dinosaurs. Visitors can learn about the history of the Ichthyosaur and see the remains of these fascinating creatures up close.
  • Hike one of the many trails that wind through the park. The park offers several trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels, including the Ichthyosaur Trail, which is a 1.5-mile loop that takes visitors past the remains of the Ichthyosaur.
  • Enjoy a picnic at one of the many picnic areas located throughout the park. The park offers several shaded picnic areas that are perfect for a family lunch or dinner.
  • Take a scenic drive through the park and enjoy the stunning desert landscape. The park offers several scenic drives that take visitors through some of the most beautiful areas of the park.

Want to surprise your family with a uniquely fun RV road trip?

Our country is filled with so many great vacation destinations, and traveling in an RV allows you to take the time to stop to enjoy them all. From the Pacific to the Atlantic, our highways and byways are filled with sites to behold and parks to enjoy. DuraFlap can help protect your RV and your towed vehicle throughout your journeys with high-quality wheel-well and rear mudflaps. Contact us today to learn more about the DuraFlap difference.

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