The Allure of Pahrump, Nevada

This community in the Silver State is a winter haven for RVers with golfing, wine tasting and outdoor adventure.

by

Words by Steve Fennell

Nevada conjures up thoughts of the Mojave desert, gaming, live entertainment, dining and shopping. While these are the common staples of the state’s three largest cities of Las Vegas, Reno, and Henderson, there are more cultural and engaging attractions to this southwestern destination than meets the eye.

Beyond all the buzz and bling that Nevada is known for are a number of communities with rich history, thriving vineyards (yes, vineyards), unique museums, and outdoor activities many may not realize exist in the desert. It’s communities like Pahrump that make the state extra appealing and has become a haven for snowbirds throughout the winter.

Located in the southeast corner of Nye County, bordered by the Spring Mountain Range to the east and The Nopah Vista to the west, Pahrump is about an hour west of Las Vegas. It's close proximity to Sin City allows for great day trips, but you’ll also be more interested in Pahrump’s local charm, culture,  and variety of nearby natural attractions. Plus, with a population of just 44,000, Pahrump doesn’t have the large crowds or hustle and bustle. It’s where you can enjoy everything at your own pace and take in all the attractions day by day, or even week by week.

RV parks abound for every preference and budget with many five-star amenities at reasonable daily, weekly and monthly rates. Perhaps these are some of the reasons why Pahrunmp’s campgrounds like Nevada Treasure RV Resort, Preferred RV Resort and Wine Ridge Resort and Cottages host RV rallies throughout the year. RV manufacturers, cooperations, caravan tours, even large family get-togethers all book group rallies in the area as there’s always something for everyone.

The Wine Country of Nevada

What makes Pahrump unique is it has evolved into an established wine-producing region.  It’s easy to think that there’s more of a chance of harvesting grapes in the Arctic than in the Mojave Desert, but the rich soil and dry, arid conditions (as well as the expertise of Pahrump vintners) provide the ideal climate and terrain to harvest a variety of grapes. Pahrump contributed to the 35 tons of grapes that were produced throughout Nevada in 2020 alone, and where you can enjoy the fruits of local award-winning vintages like Zinfandel and Syrah, varieties of Cabernet, Merlot and Barbera.

The vineyard operations in Pahrump began in 1988 with the opening of the Pahrump Valley Winery by Nevada-resident Jack Sanders. Although it has since been sold, it remains a steady wine producer under the same name. Sander’s then opened the Sanders Family Winery and both operations are just two of the area’s winery destinations.

Other local vintners - Tim and Pam Tyler Burke - eventually followed in Sander’s footsteps and opened Artesian Cellars with a wine tasting room in 2020. It’s located right in Pahrump and harvests grapes from its four vineyards throughout Nevada (and also right in the local area). Similar to the other wineries, it hosts events, offers scheduled tours/wine tastings and organizes a wine club. Both the Pahrump Valley Winery and Sanders Family Winery are also available for weddings.

One of the latest developments in Pahrump is the passing of a recent ordinance that now allows what is called ‘home wineries’ to be developed in the valley on a minimum of 2 ha (5 ac). One is currently in the works by the Kerr Family, who are currently in the process of planting vines.

Craft Beer and Distilleries

If craft beer is preferred,  there’s a choice of local breweries as well. Approximately 40 minutes from Pahrump is Death Valley Brewery, the producer of Belgium ales in addition to wheat, High ABV, Session, Super Hops and Artisan beers. An organized beer club, dining options, events, guest taps, even on-site dry camping for $10/night are other highlights. Down the road (about a four-minute drive)  is The Tecopa Brewing Company, next door to Delight’s Hot Springs Resort just across the state line in California. (Ed note: At the time of publication, the brewery was temporarily closed so be sure to verify operating hours before visiting).

Distilleries are also popular throughout Nevada and the Desert Cane Distillery is a quick drive from any of the RV parks. Desert Cane is a producer of fine hand-distilled rums that are produced from sugar cane grown right on-site and other locally sourced ingredients. Can’t decide which is best? Try a sit-down tasting with owners Debbie and Tom Dahlman as they explain their spirits including Dark Rum, Roasted Coconut Lime,  Agricole, Crystal, Spiced and Amber Oak.

It’s also worth sampling the locally produced mead at Stonewise, a community-based, craft mead, cider maker and taproom located on Frontage Road #2. Mead, also known as ‘honey wine,’ is fermented from honey and is commonly blended with one or more natural ingredients like apples, grapes, maple syrup, pineapple, or even cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg to provide many unique varieties.

There’s more to Pahrump than wining and dining. A nearby popular natural attraction for outdoor enthusiasts is the iconic Death Valley National Park. One of the hottest places on the planet and driest areas in North America, its weather is greatly affected by the surrounding mountain ranges and has a mere annual rainfall of about 5 cm (2 in).

Although summer daytime temperatures can reach as high as an unbearable 48° C (120°F) winter months are much milder with an average high of 78 ° F (26°C), providing ideal conditions to visit the Bad Water Basin, the lowest elevation in North America consisting of a vast landscape of salt flats; the vista of Twenty Mule Team Canyon; Zabriskie point; and Dante's View, one of the most scenic areas in the park. There are also nine designated camping areas if you want to stay awhile.

Other outdoor activities can be enjoyed in nearby Amargosa Valley and Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge (about 50 minutes from Pahrump), which consists of low-desert peaks and valleys, with unique historical and natural attractions.

Golf and More in Pahrump

Or, stay in and around Pahrump. Golfing is popular and if you have never played a round in Nevada, you’ll appreciate Mountain Falls Golf Club. A championship 18-hole track designed by Nicklaus Design Group and Cal Olson Design, the course was named  Nevada’s Desert Jewel by GolfDigest, is ideal for all skill levels and popular with its engaging scenic fairways. Its grounds also include a Recreation Center, the Grill Room restaurant and a recently redesigned pro shop.

Another option is Lake View Executive Golf Course, designed by golf architect William F. Bell and voted the best “Executive or Midsize Course in Nevada.” Well-maintained fairways and fast greens promise a challenging round among stunning desert scenery.

To cool off after a day on the links or relax after a wine tasting, Lake Spring Mountain is a resort-style lake oasis perfect for family day trips and large group events. With its sand beach and cool waters, relax along its shore in a cabana and enjoy the service of the Tiki Bar with food and beverage service. Watersport equipment rentals including paddleboards and paddle boats are also available.

Although golfing, wine tasting and desert exploring will keep you busy throughout the snowbird season, Pahrump is known for many spectacular events. The largest is its four-day Fall Festival, held every September and has been dazzling visitors for more than 50-plus years. A number of exciting attractions include hot air balloon rides, a rodeo, carnival, float parade and more. The Stompapalooza Grape Stomp in October,  popular Pahrump Balloon Fest in April,  Social Pow Wow in November, and the 9th Annual Silver State Chili Cook-off in March are additional events throughout the year.

Regardless of when you visit, Pahrump is a well-rounded destination with rich culture, many attractions and a tranquil environment, which all combine to provide an ideal snowbird haven for this season and seasons to come.

www.visitpahrump.com

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, adhere to state regulations when visiting local attractions, public facilities/businesses, and call ahead to verify hours of operation.