Hawthorne
Hawthorne is the county seat and largest town in Mineral County, Nevada. Located along U.S. Route 95 and near the southern shore of Walker Lake, Hawthorne had a population of approximately 3,000 as of the 2020 Census.[1]
Hawthorne is best known for hosting the **Hawthorne Army Depot**, the largest ammunition storage facility in the world. Established in 1930, the depot remains a key employer and economic driver. The town also draws travelers and outdoor enthusiasts with its proximity to Walker Lake and Nevada’s Great Basin terrain.[2]
Quick Facts
- **Status:** Unincorporated
- **County Seat:** Mineral County
- **Population:** ~3,000
- **ZIP Code:** 89415
- **Elevation:** ~4,300 ft
- **Highways:** U.S. Route 95, near U.S. 95 Alternate
Local Economy
Hawthorne’s economy includes:
- **Military employment** – Hawthorne Army Depot (DoD contractors)
- **Public services and county government**
- **Tourism** – especially Walker Lake, hiking, and desert exploration
- **Hospitality and local retail**
Attractions and Landmarks
- **Walker Lake** – fishing, boating, and birdwatching
- **Mineral County Museum** – mining, military, and Native history
- **Armed Forces Day Parade** – one of Nevada’s oldest annual events
- **Historic downtown** and mountain backdrop
Education
Hawthorne is served by the Mineral County School District, including:
- Hawthorne Elementary School
- Mineral County High School
Governance and Services
Hawthorne is administered as the seat of Mineral County and hosts government offices, courts, public safety, and services. Utilities, roads, and planning are managed through county departments with support from local agencies.
Related Pages
References
- ↑ U.S. Census Bureau. QuickFacts: Hawthorne CDP, Nevada. Retrieved May 8, 2025, from https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/hawthornecdpnevada
- ↑ Mineral County Museum. History of Hawthorne and the Army Depot. Retrieved May 8, 2025, from https://mineralcountynv.gov