Ghost Towns in North Carolina
11 documented ghost towns
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History
Explore the ghost towns of North Carolina.
All Ghost Towns
Bath
Bath was North Carolina's first town (1705) and served as the colonial capital. Pirate Blackbeard lived here and received a pardon. The state bypassed...
Brunswick Town
Brunswick Town was North Carolina's most important colonial port until Wilmington eclipsed it. The British burned the town in 1776 during the Revoluti...
Cataloochee
Cataloochee was a prosperous farming community isolated in the Smokies. When the National Park was created, residents were forced out. Many buildings,...
Gold Hill
Gold Hill was America's first significant gold rush town - 50 years before California. North Carolina was the nation's top gold producer until 1848. A...
Henry River Mill Village
Henry River Mill Village was a complete textile company town—then became 'District 12' in The Hunger Games. The 1905 cotton mill closed in 1970; the f...
Linville
Linville was developed as a Victorian mountain resort by the MacRae family. The historic All Souls Episcopal Church (1911) and Eseeola Lodge remain. N...
Lost Cove
Lost Cove was an isolated Appalachian community of about 150 people. When the lumber company left and floods destroyed bridges, residents moved out. O...
Mortimer
Mortimer was a thriving lumber and textile mill town. A massive flood in 1916 damaged it, but the 1940 flood completely destroyed it, leaving only con...
Old Salem
Old Salem was founded by Moravians in 1766 as a planned religious community. The town was absorbed into Winston-Salem but the historic core was preser...
Portsmouth Village
Portsmouth was once the largest settlement on the Outer Banks, used for 'lightering' (transferring cargo) from ocean ships to smaller boats. The openi...
Portsmouth Village
Portsmouth Village was once the largest town on the Outer Banks—a critical port where ships transferred cargo to shallow-draft vessels. Civil War, hur...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ghost towns are in North Carolina?
We have documented 11 ghost towns in North Carolina. These range from completely abandoned mining camps to semi-inhabited historic settlements.
Are ghost towns in North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring. Summer can be extremely hot in desert locations, while winter may make roads impassable.