The Wild Charm of Desert Rose Ranch
If you have ever wondered what happens when two artists, a herd of donkeys and a Comstock mine come together, wonder no more. Welcome to Desert Rose Ranch – a 6-acre, off-grid slice of Nevada where history, humor and hoofbeats rule the day.
This sun-drenched desert paradise sits just off State Route 341 on top of the old Ward Mine Shaft at the divide of Gold Hill and Virginia City. The Ranch is not your run-of-the-mill field trip or family outing – it is the biggest livestock holder on the Comstock. Their animals are adopted, rescued or donated and all enjoy a safe and loving existence. The petting farm is home to standard donkeys, an American Mammoth Jackstock mule, Juliana pigs, Flemish Giant rabbits plus friendly goats and chickens. You can come to just meet the animals or also take part in wagon rides and a prospecting experience.
Owners Paul Buelna and Amanda Jones started building their hilltop haven three years ago – it was Jones idea but Buelna dove in head first after they adopted their BLM donkeys, direct descendants of burros still on the range from the late 1800s Comstock mining days.
Buelna likes to jokingly say, “everything I know I’ve learned reluctantly,” but as soon as he starts talking about local history and their critters, you can tell how much he truly cares. He grew up with horses but after working with the donkeys, he will never go back to horse life.
“They’re very, very sweet animals,” Buelna said of the donkeys. “They’ve all been trained to drive (pull wagons) and all our roads were built by these donkeys. Since I already pay for the tractor fuel, I’m going to use the tractor.” (Get it? The donkeys are the tractors … hilarious).
The Ranch even boasts celebrity donkey residents Burnadeen and her foal Indy – Burnadeen is well-known in Virginia City, participating in parades and walking C Street to meet people with beloved resident StinkE then with his grandson PokE after StinkE’s passing. Burnadeen (18 years) and Indy (about 10 years) are living a semi-retired life now but are still making new friends at the Ranch.
Starting in late June, Desert Rose Ranch will be open Thursday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., giving more visitors a chance to experience this charming place firsthand. Only $10 for adults, $7 for kids. The Ranch has water and Switchel (Haymaker’s Punch) on site for folks to stay hydrated. Jones and Buelna are also excited to start a P.M. Supper Club, serving members hearty ranch-style meals with great company. Stay tuned for details.
Desert Rose Ranch is not just a petting zoo or roadside stop—it’s a celebration of the Comstock’s rugged past, a nod to Nevada’s independent spirit and a living, braying example of how history can still kick up a little dust.
Visit desert-rose-ranch.com, call 775-400-5379 or stop by for questions. Also check out Ernie Dionne's YouTube video "Why This Destination Will Bring You Back to the Past".
