Historic Mt. Charleston Lodge to rise again under casino owners’ vision

A century-old retreat gets a second life. After devastating flames, the Ellis family is restoring this beloved lodge—bigger, bolder, and ready for 2026.

, and Administrator

2026 January 21 . 1:18 PM

1 min read

The image shows a stunning view of the Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada, with its majestic... — The image shows a stunning view of the Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada, with its majestic mountains, lush green grass, and rocky terrain. The sky is filled with white, fluffy clouds, adding to the beauty of the scene.

Historic Mt. Charleston Lodge to rise again under casino owners’ vision

The historic Mt. Charleston Lodge, destroyed by fire in 2021, is set to be rebuilt by the owners of Ellis Island Casino. Work on the new 11,000-square-foot structure will begin in January 2026, marking another chapter for the site, which has stood since 1915. The lodge has long served as a retreat for visitors and locals just 40 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip.

The property has a rich and varied past. Originally established in 1915, it was first called Charleston Park Lodge and Casino before later becoming known as The Ponderosa. A fire in 1961 destroyed the first lodge, but the site was rebuilt and eventually leased to the Frontier Hotel. Later, it came under the ownership of the Hacienda’s proprietors.

In April 2018, the Ellis family, who own Ellis Island Casino, acquired the lodge for $2.1 million. Their plans for a full rebuild follow the 2021 blaze, which reduced the building to ruins. Investigators never confirmed the cause of that fire. The new lodge will feature a two-storey A-frame design, complete with an enlarged restaurant and an outdoor patio. A bi-level parking garage will also be added to accommodate visitors. While no specific construction company has been named for the project, preparations are underway for the January 2026 start date.

Once completed, the lodge will restore a key destination in Mt. Charleston, a year-round escape for tourists and residents alike. The rebuilt structure will retain its historic ties while offering updated amenities. The project reflects the Ellis family’s commitment to reviving a landmark that has been part of the area for over a century.