--- title: "10 Best Ghost Towns in California (2026 Guide)" description: "Discover California's most fascinating ghost towns, from Gold Rush mining camps to abandoned desert settlements. Complete guide with photos, directions, and visitor tips." date: 2026-01-01 author: Ghost Towns Close-To-Me featured_image: /images/blog/california-ghost-towns.jpg keywords: best ghost towns california, california ghost towns, abandoned towns california, gold rush ghost towns --- # 10 Best Ghost Towns in California California's ghost towns are living monuments to the Gold Rush era and the boom-and-bust cycles that shaped the American West. From the high Sierra Nevada to the Mojave Desert, these abandoned settlements offer a window into the lives of the miners, pioneers, and dreamers who once called them home. ## 1. Bodie State Historic Park Location: Mono County, Eastern Sierra Why Visit: America's best-preserved ghost town Bodie is the crown jewel of California ghost towns. This former gold mining camp sits at 8,375 feet in the Eastern Sierra, frozen in time since the 1880s. With over 100 original buildings still standing, Bodie offers an unparalleled glimpse into Wild West mining life. Visitor Tips: - Open year-round, but winter access may require snowshoes - $8 per adult, $5 per child (ages 4-17) - Allow 2-3 hours to explore View Bodie on our map → ## 2. Calico Ghost Town Location: Yermo, San Bernardino County Why Visit: Family-friendly restored mining town Once a thriving silver mining town producing $86 million in silver ore, Calico was restored by Walter Knott (of Knott's Berry Farm fame) and later donated to San Bernardino County. It's now a popular tourist destination with shops, tours, and events. Visitor Tips: - Small admission fee; some attractions cost extra - Great for families with kids - Annual events include Calico Days and Ghost Tours ## 3. Cerro Gordo Location: Inyo Mountains, above Owens Lake Why Visit: Privately preserved silver mining town Cerro Gordo ("Fat Hill" in Spanish) was one of the richest silver strikes in California history. The town has been privately owned and preserved, offering overnight stays in historic buildings for adventurous visitors. Visitor Tips: - Advance reservations required for visits - Historic hotel stays available - 4WD recommended for the steep access road ## 4. Darwin Location: Inyo County, Death Valley Region Why Visit: Still semi-inhabited atmospheric ghost town Darwin is a unique "living ghost town" with a handful of artists and eccentrics still calling it home. The juxtaposition of occupied and abandoned structures creates a haunting atmosphere unlike anywhere else. Visitor Tips: - Respect residents' privacy - Best visited on weekdays - Combine with Death Valley National Park visit ## 5. Ballarat Location: Panamint Valley, near Death Valley Why Visit: Remote desert ghost town Ballarat served as a supply town for nearby mining operations. Today, only a few adobe ruins and the historic general store remain. The remoteness and desert setting make it perfect for photography. Visitor Tips: - Bring extra water and fuel - No services available - Best in cooler months (October-April) ## 6. Rhyolite Location: Nevada border, near Beatty (technically Nevada) Why Visit: Dramatic ruins and outdoor art museum While technically just over the Nevada border, Rhyolite is commonly grouped with California ghost towns due to its proximity to Death Valley. The dramatic bank building ruins and Tom Kelly Bottle House are iconic. ## 7. Panamint City Location: Panamint Mountains, Death Valley Why Visit: Remote wilderness ghost town Accessible only by hiking or high-clearance 4WD, Panamint City rewards the adventurous with well-preserved ruins in a stunning mountain setting. The silver mining town once had a population of 2,000. Visitor Tips: - Requires 4WD vehicle and hiking - Bring all supplies - Check conditions with Death Valley NPS ## 8. Pine Grove & Volcano Location: Amador County, Gold Country Why Visit: Accessible Gold Rush history These neighboring towns in California's Gold Country are easier to reach than more remote ghost towns. Volcano still has some residents but maintains its historic character. ## 9. Shasta City (Old Shasta) Location: Shasta County, near Redding Why Visit: State Historic Park with museum Old Shasta was the "Queen City" of the northern mines. Today, brick ruins and a museum preserve the history of this once-booming Gold Rush supply center. ## 10. Drawbridge Location: South San Francisco Bay Why Visit: Bay Area's only ghost town Drawbridge is California's most unusual ghost town - a hunting village on stilts in the salt marshes of the South Bay. Access is restricted, but the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers occasional guided tours. --- ## Planning Your California Ghost Town Trip ### Best Time to Visit - Spring (March-May): Wildflowers in the desert - Fall (September-November): Cooler temps, fewer crowds - Winter: Bodie may be snow-covered but beautiful - Avoid: Summer desert towns (extreme heat) ### What to Bring - Water (1 gallon per person per day in desert) - Sun protection - Sturdy hiking boots - Camera with spare batteries - Maps (cell service is limited) ### Safety Tips - Never enter unstable structures - Watch for mine shafts - Tell someone your plans - Carry a first aid kit --- Ready to explore? Browse all California ghost towns →