What was once a thriving 19th-century mining town makes for a fantastic autumn day trip when you find yourself itching for an adventure! You’ll find Calico Ghost Town way out in the Mojave Desert, surrounded by the striking scenery and the Calico Mountains. Boasting endless fun, attractions, and rich history, you’ll be glad you made the trip out to this abandoned townsite. Here’s what the ghost town has to offer:
Nestled in the Calico Mountains in the Mojave Desert, Calico was founded in 1881 as a silver mining town. Although it's hard to tell today, the thriving town once had over 500 mines and a population of 1,200 people.
By the turn of the century, Calico was all but a ghost town as residents had long moved away and many of the town's buildings were moved elsewhere. It sat silent and abandoned until the 1950s when Walter Knott purchased Calico and attempted to restore it to its former glory.
Knott spent around $700,000 to restore Calico's missing and dilapidated buildings. In fact, the effort ended with restoring all but five original buildings to look as they did in the 1880s. Over half a century later and Calico still looks like a town ripped straight out of the 19th century.
Calico Ghost Town is part of the San Bernardino County Regional Parks system. Visitors flock from all over to explore the historic town and get a sense of what life was like in the real Wild West. The historic buildings are definitely a sight to see.
In addition to its rich history, Calico also boasts an abundance of family-friendly attractions. Stop by the Calico Odessa Railroad to take a historical tour on a train that's similar to those used in the early days of mining. Other popular attractions include Maggie Mine (an authentic silver mine from the 1880s) and Gold Panning (just like the original prospectors did it!)
The town itself is home to all sorts of fun little shops that are worth peeking into. Check out Calico Woodworks, Lane's General Store, R & D Fossils & Minerals, and Calico Leather Works for a special gift or memento to remember Calico by.
Feel like extending your adventure in Calico? Spend the night in the town's campground or rent a cabin for an overnight stay. Daily admission to Calico Ghost Town costs $8 for adults, $5 for kids, and is free for kids 3 years and younger. Learn more by visiting the park's website here.
Have you been to Calico Ghost Town in Southern California? Exploring ghost towns is always a good time! Share your experiences with us in the comments below.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
