NEVADA - It is one of the great ironies of the gambling capital of the world: you can bet on a single number at the roulette table in any Las Vegas casino, but you can’t buy a Powerball ticket anywhere in the state of Nevada. Because of a century-old constitutional ban, Nevadans looking for a life-changing jackpot have to embark on a specific kind of pilgrimage—the "Lotto Run." As we move into 2026, three specific border locations have become the undisputed "hot spots" for Nevada residents, boasting some of the largest payouts in lottery history.1. The Primm Valley Lotto Store (The "Volume King")
Located just 45 miles south of the Las Vegas Strip, this store is technically in Nipton, California, but its heart belongs to Nevada. It is often cited as the busiest lottery retailer in the United States.
- The "Luck" Factor: Because of the sheer volume of tickets sold here, it hits "Big Winner" status more than almost any other store in the West. It famously sold a $191 million Mega Millions ticket and continues to be the site of frequent six-figure "Match 5" winners.
- The Pro Tip: If there is a billion-dollar jackpot, expect lines that stretch for hours. Savvy locals head here on Tuesday mornings to beat the weekend rush.
2. Gold Ranch Lottery Station (The North’s Best Bet)
For residents of Reno and Sparks, the go-to destination is Gold Ranch in Verdi, California. Just a stone's throw from the Nevada border, this station is designed specifically for the "Lotto Run" crowd.
- The "Luck" Factor: Gold Ranch has a massive wall of fame featuring winners of $100,000 or more. It famously sold a $150 million winning ticket and is known for a high frequency of winning "Scratchers."
- The Experience: Unlike the dusty roadside stops, Gold Ranch offers a full RV resort and casino atmosphere (on the Nevada side), making it a popular "day trip" for those hunting for California’s higher payouts.
3. The Last Stop Travel Center (The Arizona Connection)
If you are on the east side of Las Vegas or near Henderson, the drive to the Arizona border is often faster than the trek to Primm. The Last Stop in White Hills, Arizona, is the preferred destination for those looking to play the Arizona Lottery.
- The "Luck" Factor: This location gained "lucky" status after selling a $665,000 Triple Twist jackpot and multiple Powerball winners. Arizona’s lottery often has different odds and prize structures than California, making this a strategic choice for serious players.
- The Experience: It’s a true desert oasis that caters specifically to Nevadans, often featuring "Lottery Leaderboards" that track recent wins from Vegas-based visitors.
Why Nevada Still Doesn't Have a Lottery in 2026
Despite 80% of residents supporting a state lottery, the powerful gaming and resort industry has historically opposed it, arguing that a lottery would compete with the state's existing casino revenue. While 2025 and 2026 saw renewed legislative efforts to put a lottery amendment on the ballot, the constitutional ban remains in place for now.
Until then, the "Lotto Run" remains a Nevada rite of passage. Whether you head South to Primm, North to Verdi, or East to White Hills, these three locations remain the only way for Nevadans to get their hands on a "lucky" ticket.
