Ghost Towns in Indiana
9 documented ghost towns
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History
Explore the ghost towns of Indiana.
All Ghost Towns
Ben-Hur
Ben-Hur was named for Lew Wallace's famous novel published in 1880—the same year the town was founded. When the railroad bypassed it and automobiles m...
Elkinsville
Elkinsville was a quiet valley community that was seized by imminent domain to create the Lake Monroe reservoir. Although the lake waters never actual...
Gnaw Bone
Gnaw Bone's unusual name has many origin stories - from pioneers gnawing on bones during a harsh winter to a corruption of 'Narbonne' (French settler)...
Hindostan Falls
Hindostan Falls was once a booming county seat. In the 1820s, a mysterious epidemic (likely Yellow Fever or Cholera) struck, killing or driving away t...
Metamora
Metamora is a preserved Whitewater Canal town with a functioning 1840s grist mill and covered aqueduct. When railroads replaced canals, the town decli...
Monument City
Monument City was named after a monument to Civil War soldiers erected there. In the 1960s, the Salamonie Reservoir was created, flooding the town. Th...
New Harmony
New Harmony hosted two utopian experiments. German Harmonists founded it in 1814, then sold it to Robert Owen in 1825 for a socialist commune. Both fa...
Rising Sun
Rising Sun was a prosperous Ohio River town in the 1800s. When railroads replaced river traffic, the economy stagnated. The preserved downtown retains...
Story
Story was a logging town that emptied when timber was gone. In the 1980s, Rick Hofstetter bought the entire town and turned it into the Story Inn. The...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ghost towns are in Indiana?
We have documented 9 ghost towns in Indiana. These range from completely abandoned mining camps to semi-inhabited historic settlements.
Are ghost towns in Indiana safe to visit?
Most ghost towns are safe to explore, but exercise caution. Watch for unstable structures, mine shafts, and wildlife. Some are on private property - always check access rules before visiting.
What should I bring when visiting ghost towns?
Bring water, snacks, sun protection, sturdy shoes, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. Many ghost towns are in remote areas without cell service, so download offline maps.
Can I take artifacts from ghost towns?
No. Removing artifacts, bottles, or debris is illegal and destroys historical sites. Take only photos and leave only footprints.
What's the best time to visit ghost towns in Indiana?
Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring. Summer can be extremely hot in desert locations, while winter may make roads impassable.