Diamondfield Gulch

Situated in the hills surrounding Goldfield, Diamondfield Gulch is a former gold mining camp turned only-in-Nevada camping destination. This private residence sits on 60 acres of history, and with advance notice, travelers can overnight among authentic relics, uncommon sights, and false-front, Old West buildings.

In the early 1900s, Western desperado Jackson Lee “Diamondfield Jack” Davis discovered gold-rich ore in the hills north of Goldfield after being pardoned for murder in Idaho. Thousands of fortune seekers came, and during its heyday, Diamondfield had restaurants, mercantile stores, schools, a church, livery, blacksmith shop, miner’s union hall, a post office, and a handful of saloons. 

Now, the real excitement here is what owner and resident Ron Matheny has created. Honoring the original Diamondfield, Matheny’s Diamondfield Gulch is a reimagined version of the gold mining camp complete with a saloon, jail, blacksmith shop, general store, bank, and telegraph station. These false-front buildings have been meticulously constructed among a handful of original foundations and other mining relics.

At Diamondfield Gulch, Matheny offers primitive campsites (RVs also welcome) with reservations required in advance. Depending on when you visit, you might also be able to arrange a free Jeep tour around the property with Ron as your guide or attend monthly events. No matter how you’re hoping to experience Diamondfield Gulch, call Matheny at least a week in advance to arrange your day-trip or overnight visit to his private residence.

Getting There & Info to Know Before You Go

Diamondfield Gulch lies about 20 minutes northeast of Goldfield on well-maintained dirt roads. Keep an eye out for a sign directing you into the property for the final quarter mile. You’ll most likely be without cell service on your way to and at Diamondfield Gulch. Plan to bring your own food and drink, too, as you’ll be fully off the grid (and there’s no grocery store in Goldfield).

When traveling Nevada’s backroads, be sure to live by the Dirt Road Code. Travel with good tires (and a spare), pack plenty of water and snacks, and be sure to let someone know where you’re headed and when you plan to return. And remember: There’s only one safe way to experience historic mining sites. Stay out and stay alive.