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Bonelli Landing - Rioville
One persistent pioneer family remained behind when the Mormon homesteaders of St. Thomas, Nevada, voted to abandon the town in 1870.
Daniel Bonelli left St. Thomas after it was abandoned and built his home at Junction City, at the mouth of the Virgin River, and named it Rioville. Bonelli raised cattle and agricultural crops, and mined salt for sale to the miners from Temple Bar to El Dorado. Bonelli recognized another need, so Rioville also became known as Bonelli's Ferry. The ferry operated until 1920. Rioville had a store, post office, and a Pony Express station. Daniel Bonelli is credited with naming "The Mormon Temple" at Temple Bar.
Bonelli's Ferry - NPS photo
Bonelli Landing is a small, scenic spot located along Lake Mead in Arizona. It's a popular destination for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors, particularly for activities like fishing, boating, and camping. The landing itself is a launch point for boats, offering easy access to the vast waters of Lake Mead.
Lake Mead, as you might know, is a massive reservoir formed by the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River. It's surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, making places like Bonelli Landing perfect for those who love nature and water-based fun. The area around the landing is known for its peaceful, laid-back atmosphere, which is ideal for a relaxing day trip or a longer stay at one of the nearby campgrounds.
The region is also rich in history, as Lake Mead and its surroundings have been central to various Native American cultures for centuries. Today, it's a great place to explore, whether you're interested in water sports, wildlife, or simply soaking up the natural beauty.
Virgin River
St. Thomas, NV.
Temple Bar
Bonelli House
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