In the heart of Dayton, Nevada, a dusty road leads to a hidden gem that intertwines both history and nature. This site, known for its past as a divorce haven, is on the brink of becoming Nevada’s 28th State Park.
The land, purchased by the Western Rivers Conservancy and Nevada State Parks in 2026, is rich in wildlife and natural beauty, according to Susanna Danner of the Conservancy. She highlights its significance as part of a critical wildlife corridor. “This corridor, along with Dayton State Park and Fort Churchill State Historic Park, that provide a highway for birds to fly from the Carson Valley out to the Carson Sink, this continuity of habitat is critical for them.”
Historically, the area was known as “Break-A-Heart Ranch,” a popular divorce ranch in the 1940s and later a military vehicle testing site. Tyler Kerver from Nevada State Parks explains, “In the 1940s, the state legislature lowered the residency requirement to get a divorce from six months to six weeks, that would encourage people to come to Nevada and live here. Then they could just sign divorce papers without their spouse’s signature.”
While detailed historical surveys are still pending, public input and existing documentation have been instrumental in uncovering the property’s past. For the first time in decades, Nevadans have the opportunity to participate in this historical transformation by helping to choose a name for the park. The park is slated to open to the public next year after incorporating community feedback and finalizing plans.
