If you happen to RV through Southern California, have a penchant for history, and love ghost towns, Calico Ghost Town should be on your travel plans.
Nestled in the Mojave Desert, this once-bustling mining town offers a unique blend of Old West charm and modern amenities. It’s a perfect stop for RVers.
A brief history
Back in 1881, Calico sprang to life during the silver rush, quickly growing into a lively community. At its peak, the town boasted a population of around 3,500 residents. This included folks from China, England, Ireland, Greece, France, the Netherlands, and various parts of the U.S.
Over a span of 12 years, Calico’s mines yielded more than $20 million worth of silver ore. However, as silver prices plummeted in the late 1890s, the town’s fortune dwindled, and by 1907, it was largely abandoned.
Reviving the past
Fast forward to today, Calico has been lovingly restored to mirror its 19th-century heyday. While some original structures remain—like Lil’s Saloon, the town office, and the former home of Lucy Lane (now a museum)—others have been reconstructed to give visitors an authentic glimpse into the past. As you wander through the town, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back into the Wild West.
Activities and attractions
Calico isn’t just a static museum; it’s a vibrant destination with many activities:
• Mine tours: Delve into the depths of the Maggie Mine and get a firsthand look at the conditions miners faced.
• Calico & Odessa Railroad: Hop aboard this narrow-gauge train for a scenic tour around the town.
• Gunfight stunt shows: Experience the thrill of live reenactments that bring the Old West to life.
• Gold panning: Try your hand at striking it rich by panning for gold.
• Mystery Shack: Challenge your senses with optical illusions and perplexing phenomena.
Throughout the year, Calico hosts special events like the Civil War Days in February, Spring Festival in May, Calico Days in October, and a Ghost Town haunt leading to Halloween.
RV-friendly accommodations
For those of us traveling in RVs, Calico Ghost Town offers convenient amenities:
• Overnight camping: The park provides RV campsites equipped with necessary hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Facilities: Enjoy access to restrooms, showers, and picnic areas to make your visit as pleasant as possible.
Getting there
Calico Ghost Town is conveniently located off Interstate 15, about 10 miles northeast of Barstow, California. Its proximity to major routes makes it an easy addition to your travel itinerary.
You should go!
The town welcomes visitors daily, except on Christmas Day. While there’s an entrance fee, the rich history and array of activities make it well worth the price. Some attractions may require additional fees, so it’s a good idea to check the official website for the latest information before planning your trip.
Embarking on a journey to Calico Ghost Town offers a delightful mix of education, entertainment, and a touch of nostalgia. It’s a destination that will enrich your RV adventures with memories of the Old West.
YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY:
- Top 10 ghost towns in America
- Top 10 most-haunted campgrounds and parks in the U.S.
- Exploring California’s Highway 49 historic Gold Rush towns
- Visit Bodie, California, perhaps America’s best ghost town
##RVT1203
When I lived in SoCal I went to Calico often in the ’60s & early 70s, when it was a true ghost town. It was later bought up by Disney (I think) & turned it into a tourist trap, ruined the real ghost town feel. JMHO
Not Disney, Knott’s Berry Farm.
We try to visit a ghost town or two every year. Calico was way too commercialized for our liking. Much prefer the abandoned ones that seem so much more real and bring out the imagination from what the 1800’s were like. That’s just us.
Thank you, Gail, for the suggestion and accompanying information! Perhaps one day we’ll make it to California. Meanwhile, have a great day and safe travels!
Bodie is a don’t miss destination. Calico doesn’t compare, but has a large number of RV sites and can be a good place to stop when traveling on I-15.