The Sinister Story Behind This Popular Northern California Park Will Give You Chills
By Jill S.|Published August 20, 2017
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Jill S.
Author
Jill is a freelance writer from a small Northern California town and lives in the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you have an idea for an Only In Northern California story, email her at jsanford@onlyinyourstate.com.
Northern California is a place with a very interesting history. From the gold mines of the Sierra foothills to the logging camps of the northwest corner of the state, there are bound to be a few ghosts in the attic, so to speak. This one state park is a spooky example of our state’s unique history.
Fort Humboldt State Park, located in Eureka, is one of the creepiest parks in Northern California.
It sits on the bluffs and overlooks Humboldt Bay. It was originally a military installation that was established for the sole purpose of keeping the peace in the region.
In 1853, it was built to discourage conflict between the influx of white settlers arriving for gold mining and logging and the Native Americans who had called this place home for hundreds of generations.
The future President was the commanding officer here after gaining notoriety in the Mexican-American War. He didn't like the remoteness of this location, however.
The state park was established in 1955, and visitors can visit and tour the parts of the Fort that are still standing. It's a fun and informative experience, just try not to disturb the ghosts of the past when you swing by.