Bodie State Historic Park
If you’re only going to visit one ghost town in California, Bodie is a must-see. Located in Bridgeport, this town was a booming gold-mining community in the late 1800s, with over 10,000 residents at its peak. Today, Bodie is preserved as a state historic park, giving visitors a glimpse into the wild and rugged life of the gold rush era. You can explore the well-preserved buildings, walk the deserted streets, and imagine what life was like during the town’s heyday.
Shasta State Historic Park
This park is home to the remnants of Shasta City, once known as the ″Queen City of the North.″ During the gold rush, Shasta was one of the busiest towns in California. Today, you can wander through the well-preserved brick buildings, including a courthouse, schoolhouse, and general store. The park offers a fascinating look at life in a mining town and the history of the gold rush.
Calico
Located in the Mojave Desert, Calico is a popular destination for those seeking a true ghost town experience. Originally settled in the 1880s, Calico was a bustling mining town with a notorious reputation. Today, visitors can explore the deserted streets, visit museums, take narrow-gauge train rides, and try their hand at gold panning. The town’s rich history and eerie atmosphere make it a must-visit for ghost town enthusiasts.
Empire Mine State Historic Park
Grass Valley’s Empire Mine State Historic Park is a unique ghost town experience. This park showcases one of California’s oldest, largest, and richest gold mines. Visitors can tour the visitor center to learn about the mine’s history and then explore the grounds, which include the mine’s entrance, historic buildings, and gardens. You’ll get a fascinating glimpse into the state’s mining past and the lives of the people who worked in the industry.
Cerro Gordo
Tucked away in the Inyo Mountains near Death Valley National Park, Cerro Gordo is a hidden gem among California’s ghost towns. Accessible via a dirt/gravel road, this town offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience. You can explore the deserted buildings, including the hotel, saloon, and mining operations. The secluded location and eerie ambiance make Cerro Gordo a must-visit for ghost town enthusiasts looking for something different.
North Bloomfield
Located within Malakoff Diggins State Park in Northern California, North Bloomfield is a well-preserved ghost town from the 1800s. Once known as Humbug City, this town was a hub of gold mining activity. Many of the original buildings still stand, giving visitors a glimpse into the past; Rather than being restored, the town is preserved in its abandoned state, allowing you to experience the authentic atmosphere of a gold rush era ghost town.
Exploring California’s ghost towns is like stepping back in time. Each town offers a unique experience and a chance to learn about the state’s fascinating history. Whether you’re interested in the wild and lawless days of the gold rush or simply enjoy the eerie ambiance of abandoned buildings, a visit to one of California’s ghost towns is sure to satisfy. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on a journey through time in these fascinating and haunting places.
