Buckhorn Is Iowa's Most Interesting Abandoned Ghost Town

Iowa is full of ghost towns, and one of them in particular is worth a visit. The town of Buckhorn is located west of Maquoketa, less than a hour from the Quad Cities, and the remnants of this once bustling town will take your breath away.

Buckhorn was once a farmer's co-op, and it was home to a tavern and hotel, stagecoach shop and more.

In the 1960s, the entire co-op and town was bought out by a larger commercial dairy, and the population left in droves.

Now, there are only a few buildings, and a few residents, left in this abandoned ghost town.

The Buckhorn Creamery is the most famous of the abandoned buildings, and the property is nearly crumbling to the ground.

The town's church, though abandoned for decades, is still in very good shape.

Across the highway from the church stands a sprawling cemetery, where former residents of this once-busy town have been laid to rest.

Most Iowans don’t even know that Buckhorn exists, but it’s easy to visit. Just head west on Route 64 from Maquoketa until you see the cemetery on your right! Turn left by the church and the road will take you straight to the old Creamery. Be aware, though, that these buildings are private property, and we don’t recommend you try to enter and explore. If you can’t get enough of this spooky Hawkeye history, you might want to embark on our Haunting Road Trip Through Iowa Ghost Towns – it’s one trip you’ll never forget!

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Kim Magaraci

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