Ghost Towns in Virginia
9 documented ghost towns
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History
Explore the ghost towns of Virginia.
All Ghost Towns
Ca Ira
Ca Ira (French for 'It will be fine') was planned as a major tobacco port on the Willis River. However, the river silted up, rendering navigation impo...
Cumberland Gap
Cumberland Gap was the primary route through the Appalachians for westward expansion. Daniel Boone blazed the Wilderness Road through here in 1775. Ov...
Goshen Pass
Goshen Pass is a scenic gorge where the Maury River cuts through Little North Mountain. Remnants of the James River and Kanawha Canal locks remain fro...
Jamestown
Jamestown was the first permanent English settlement in North America, founded in 1607. It served as Virginia's capital for 92 years. When the capital...
Liberty
New London (renamed Liberty) was a major colonial courthouse town—Patrick Henry argued cases here. It was under consideration as a capital during the ...
Lignite
Lignite was a company town for the Alleghany Ore and Iron Company. At its peak, it had hundreds of houses, a hotel, and a theater. When the mines clos...
Pocahontas
Pocahontas was famous for its high-grade metallurgical coal that powered the US Navy. The town boomed from the 1880s to the 1950s. Today, about 350 pe...
Stratford Hall
Stratford Hall was home to generations of the Lee family. The enslaved community and tenant farmers who once lived here are gone; the mansion is now a...
Wash Woods
Wash Woods was settled by survivors of shipwrecks who used lumber washing ashore to build their homes. The community thrived on fishing and hunting un...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ghost towns are in Virginia?
We have documented 9 ghost towns in Virginia. These range from completely abandoned mining camps to semi-inhabited historic settlements.
Are ghost towns in Virginia 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 Virginia?
Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring. Summer can be extremely hot in desert locations, while winter may make roads impassable.