Johnston's J-Bar-B Stables

Sheetmetal cowfolk and mountains behind. Mr Kimberly (Atlas Obscura User)

Just 20 minutes northwest of downtown Las Vegas, a private horse ranch and equestrian center is surrounded by whimsical, tasteful artwork. Bombs and cut-metal flowers decorate the property’s side gate, while sheetmetal cowboys and cowgirls can be seen atop various inner structures.

Old farm implements and horseshoes have been converted into decorations, with repeating silhouettes of horses, sunflowers and other designs added to the fences and buildings within. Much of it is painted in a white and blue color scheme.

Signs on the West Gowan side state the Johnston Stable has been there since 1961. The city has long since grown around the ranch, transforming into an outpost of desert country life now surrounded by the suburbs.

It’s best to view the unusual fence decorations from the road. The stables are a private boarding facility and trespassing is not permitted.

Know Before You Go

The ranch is clearly marked with private property signs. So, unless invited in, all the scrap metal artistry can be observed from the streets along the the property, and from the dusty lot to its east.