Ghost Towns in Maryland
9 documented ghost towns
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History
Explore the ghost towns of Maryland.
All Ghost Towns
Daniels
Daniels was a cotton mill town in the Patapsco Valley for 160 years. Hurricane Agnes devastated it in 1972, and residents never returned. The ruins - ...
Glendening
Glendening was one of many small coal company towns in Maryland's Allegheny Mountains. When coal declined, so did Glendening. The forest has largely r...
Holland Island
Holland Island was a thriving watermen's community. Rapid erosion ate away the island clay. By 1918, most families had floated their houses to the mai...
Old Ellicott City
Old Ellicott City is a historic mill town that was devastated by flash floods in 2016 and 2018 (both called '1000-year floods'). Many businesses were ...
Point Lookout
While not a traditional town, the massive city of tents and structures at Point Lookout housed over 50,000 Confederate prisoners, with horrific condit...
Port Tobacco
Port Tobacco was one of Maryland's largest colonial ports, rivaling Annapolis. The harbor silted up and the railroad bypassed it. Today, a few histori...
Sharp's Island
Sharp's Island was once a thriving community in the Chesapeake Bay with farms, a hotel, and a lighthouse. Erosion caused the island to shrink dramatic...
St. Mary's City
St. Mary's City was the first capital of Maryland (1634-1694). When the capital moved to Annapolis in 1694, the town declined. By 1720, it was essenti...
St. Mary's City
St. Mary's City was Maryland's first capital and the 4th permanent English settlement in North America—but when the capital moved to Annapolis in 1708...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ghost towns are in Maryland?
We have documented 9 ghost towns in Maryland. These range from completely abandoned mining camps to semi-inhabited historic settlements.
Are ghost towns in Maryland 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 Maryland?
Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring. Summer can be extremely hot in desert locations, while winter may make roads impassable.