There are few things more terrifying than an old, vacant, and dilapidated hospital. Maybe it’s the fact that hospitals are supposed to be places of warmth and comfort. People go to them to heal and feel better. However, seeing them in an abandoned and run-down state is the exact opposite of the positive image that we like to associate with hospitals.We think you might be surprised to learn that the following Nevada City abandoned hospital is still standing.

This former Nevada City mental sanitarium is even believed to be haunted due to the hospital’s tragic history. Once you hear the creepy story behind this Nevada County hospital, we understand if you decide to keep your distance from this place. Without further ado, read on if you’re ready to get spooked!

Hiding on the outskirts of Nevada City is a massive 34,000-square-foot complex that's seen better days. The structure, known as the HEW building, has been abandoned for well over a decade, but that doesn't stop people from visiting this former Nevada City mental hospital - especially those who are intrigued by the ex-hospital's creepy history.
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It may be hard to believe, but at one point this now vacant building was home to the Nevada County Hospital.
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Originally built in 1860, it operated until 1975. In the 1980s, the building was then used to house low-risk inmates from the county's overcrowded jails.
The structure would last be used as the headquarters for the Behavioral Health Department, along with other offices.
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As a hospital, the historic structure undoubtedly saw a lot of death. However, it wasn't until 2001 that an unforgettable tragedy occurred in the building, dooming it to an inevitable end.

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On January 10, 2001, a mentally ill man who had once received assistance from the Behavioral Health Dept. opened fire inside the former Nevada City mental sanitarium, shooting three people. Two of them died.
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Just five years later, the county would officially vacate the HEW building forever.
Since then, the HEW building has been left in near ruins.
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Nature has slowly started to reclaim this abandoned Nevada County hospital. Long twisting vines and graffiti cover the building from head to toe. In 2013, plans were made to develop the property into housing but have yet to come to fruition. It's almost like the building has been left in permanent limbo.
Today, this Nevada City abandoned hospital is officially closed off to the public.
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You can view the outside but all the doors and windows are boarded up and locked, restricting you from getting a peek inside. Unfortunately, this hasn't stopped people from breaking in or vandalizing the historic structure.
Due to the structure's unsettling history, some people have made claims that the building is undoubtedly haunted. Reports of unexplained shadows and general feelings of unease have been made. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, you have to admit there's something about this place that feels...off.
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If you do decide to visit this century-old Nevada City mental sanitarium, please be courteous. As you can see, the structure has been victim to all sorts of vandalism over the years and we'd like to preserve this unique piece of history for as long as possible!

Did you know the story behind this creepy Nevada City abandoned hospital which we think is both spooky and downright sad? If you’d like to explore more abandoned destinations after taking a peak at this mental sanitarium, we suggest checking out the 10 most terrifying places in Northern California.

For more unique experiences in Northern California, take a look at Viator to learn about other unique and fun activities in this part of the state.

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Nevada City Abandoned Hospital

Marla S. | October 10, 2023

What are some of the most terrifying places in Northern California?

Aside from the Nevada City mental hospital you just learned about, here are some of the most terrifying places in Northern California:

  • Bodie, California: Now a ghost town, this was a thriving community in the 1800s, during the height of the Gold Rush. Nowadays, some believe this is one of the most popular haunted spots in Northern California.
  • Old Shasta City: We guarantee you'll feel like you've been transported back in time when you take a look at the remains of this Gold Rush town less than 6 miles from Redding.
  • The Old City Cemetery in Sacramento: When visiting this eerie spot, you'll discover tombstones of historical leaders such as political officials and more.
  • The Little River Cemetery Sinkhole: You'll need to take a quick hike to check out this spooky-looking natural wonder.

 

What are some popular ghost towns in Northern California? 

Take a look at the following ghost towns in Northern California:

  • Auburn: Originally founded by French miners, this former gold rush town has been restored.
  • Coulterville: With a tiny population of about 100 residents, this eerie town is just northwest of Mariposa.
  • Angels Camp: Back in the day, this once-thriving miners town generated over $20,000,000 in gold.

 

If you'd like to visit more creepy places, check out this Northern California road trip too.

 

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