Rascal's Roadshow: Ely, Nevada KOA

 Rascal’s Roadshow: Ely, Nevada 🚐🐶

Google Maps is our friend!

Our journey along U.S. Route 93 from Boulder City to Ely, Nevada, took us through the stunning Pahranagat Valley—and while I have no clue how to pronounce that, I can tell you it’s breathtaking! This long valley, framed by snow-capped mountains, offered scenic views and even a few surprises along the way. Despite its dry appearance this time of year, we spotted lush wetlands, grazing cattle, and even a few pronghorns. 🦌

This is the closest we got to Las Vegas.

A view of the snow-capped mountains as we
made a steady uphill drive to Ely.

Welcome to Ely! 🏡

We rolled through the small town of Ely (population: 3,907 as of 2023) and arrived at the KOA campground on the outskirts. The ladies at registration were incredibly kind and helpful, sharing recommendations on local attractions and the best eats in town—and after a long drive, Todd was hankering for a burger! 🍔

Beautiful open campsites.

We set up camp at our spacious pull-thru site, gave Rascal and the kitties some love, and headed into town for dinner at Smash & Grab, one of their suggested spots. What we didn’t realize? It’s inside the Jailhouse Casino! 🎰 Luckily, it’s a small casino—not like navigating a Vegas labyrinth. Todd ordered a smash burger, I opted for a taco salad, and we both left happy. From our table, we could hear the slot machines chiming away. We’re not big gamblers, but I have been known to drop a few coins into a Wheel of Fortune machine now and then… but I resisted! (So far, the only machine we’ve fed in Nevada is the laundromat washer. 😆)

Tempting, but no!

Exploring & Eating Our Way Through Ely 🌮

A couple of days later, we checked out Margarita’s, a Mexican restaurant inside the Prospector Hotel—and yes, another casino stood between us and our meal! Todd had chicken mole and said he’s pretty sure it’s the best he’s ever eaten. Meanwhile, from the casino that tempting Wheel of Fortune machine was calling my name again, but I held strong. 💪

We had to pass the lion and the casino
to reach Margarita's Restaurant.

As for the KOA? Top-notch. ✨ It’s clean, well-maintained, and spacious, with a steady flow of fellow travelers passing through. There’s a great dog park for Rascal 🐕, Picturesque views 🖼️, and even a charming gift shop stocked with unique items from craft shows (yes, I did some shopping!).

Cute little gifts I found in the
KOA gift shop.

Todd’s Fishing Adventures 🎣

Todd has spent a couple of chilly days fishing at nearby Comins Lake—and believe it or not, he’s actually caught a few! 🎉 I think he’s crazy, though, because today’s high is only 45°F. 🥶 Too cold for me! Back at Lake Mead, he had a first-time experience: a ranger checking for fishing licenses! Good thing he’s a law-abiding fisherman and had his Nevada State Fishing License in hand.

Happy fisherman right there!

Final Thoughts & What’s Next! 🚀

If you’re traveling through Nevada, I highly recommend the Ely KOA for a comfortable stay. The local restaurants are great, the scenery is stunning, and if you’re feeling lucky, maybe drop a few coins into a slot machine! 😉

We had a little snow on the ground when 
we arrived in camp.

Next up? Our visit to Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park and the Great Basin National Park—stay tuned for all the details in my next post! 🏞️⛺

Until next time, happy trails! 🚐🐾✨

Rascal scoping out his home of the week.

The 5th rule applies to Rascal...he can be a K9 bully. 
So he's only allowed in with us, no other doggies.

Pretty views from the K9 park...and nice doggy bags with handles
supplied by the KOA.

K9 park meets with Rascal's approval

Campground Kitty looks like our Panther Kitty.