Calico Ghost Town - A Perfect LA to Las Vegas Road Trip Stop
As you drive the iconic route between Los Angeles and Las Vegas along I-15, there’s a hidden gem that beckons travelers to step back in time: Calico Ghost Town. With its rich mining history, scenic desert backdrop, and a host of interactive attractions, Calico makes for the perfect roadside stop, especially during the Halloween season. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, family road-tripping through the Mojave Desert, or someone in search of a unique desert adventure, Calico Ghost Town offers something for everyone. And with Halloween around the corner, the town takes on an extra layer of spooky fun, making it a can’t-miss destination for all ages. Join me below as we dive into why Calico is a must-visit and what you need to know before you go!
Mojave views from Calico Ghost Town
Calico Ghost Town in between Los Angeles & Las Vegas
Location
Calico Ghost Town is conveniently located in Southern California’s Mojave Desert, just off Interstate 15, about 10 miles northeast of Barstow. Situated almost exactly at the halfway point, Calico’s proximity makes it an ideal day trip or roadside stop for travelers driving between Los Angeles and Las Vegas (about 2.5 hours from each). Whether you're heading for a weekend getaway or just need a break from the road, Calico is easy to reach, making it a great mid-trip adventure. The town is part of the San Bernardino County Regional Parks system and offers spectacular desert views that give you a real sense of the Old West. While the surrounding desert can feel isolated and otherworldly, once you arrive at Calico, you'll find yourself stepping into a lively, historic world.
Calico Ghost Town near Barstow, CA
Schoolhouse at Calico Ghost Town
Maggie Mine “Glory Hole” marker at Calico Ghost Town
History
Calico Ghost Town's history is as rich as the silver that once filled its mines. Founded in 1881 during the height of California’s silver rush, Calico quickly grew into a bustling mining town with over 500 mines producing a staggering $86 million worth of silver and $45 million in borax. The town thrived in its heyday with a diverse population of 3,500 prospectors, business owners, and families in 1886. The dusty streets were filled with saloons, general stores, hotels, a jail, and all kinds of businesses.
However, by the late 1890s, silver prices dropped dramatically, causing a mass exodus. As miners left in search of more lucrative opportunities, Calico became a ghost town almost overnight. Its abandoned buildings and deserted streets stood as silent reminders of a once-prosperous past.
In 1951, Walter Knott—best known as the founder of Knott's Berry Farm—stepped in to restore Calico to its former glory. Knott, who was the nephew of an original Calico grubstaker (John C. King), had a deep passion for preserving California’s frontier history and bought the town. He carefully restored many of its buildings to their original state, while adding modern touches to make it a tourist attraction. Thanks to his efforts, Calico has been preserved as a piece of living history, and today, visitors can explore the town much like it was in the 1880s.
Calico was listed as a California Historical Landmark in 1962, and in 2005, it was given the distinction of being California’s Silver Rush Ghost Town, securing its place as a key part of the state's historical legacy. At that same time, Bodie State Historic Park was declared as California’s Gold Rush Ghost Town.
Maggie Mine Tour at Calico Ghost Town
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Calico House Restaurant and Fire Hall
Standing at an angle in the Calico Mystery Shack
Visiting Today
Visiting Calico Ghost Town today is like stepping into a living museum where history, entertainment, and adventure merge. Whether you’re walking through the old buildings or partaking in family-friendly activities, there’s plenty to see and do for visitors of all ages.
Historic Attractions: As you wander through the town, you’ll discover original and restored structures that give you a taste of life in the Old West. The old schoolhouse, Lane’s General Store, and the blacksmith shop are just a few of the iconic landmarks to explore. You can even visit the old town jail, where outlaws were once held, or check out the saloons where miners spent their hard-earned silver. Each building is packed with history, and you’ll find informational plaques that tell the stories of the people who once lived and worked in Calico.
Shopping: Calico offers several unique shops where you can find one-of-a-kind souvenirs that reflect the spirit of the Wild West. From handmade leather goods and antiques to quirky collectibles and Old West-themed trinkets, there’s something for everyone. Many of the shops feature goods made by local artisans, so it’s a great place to pick up a memento of your trip.
Dining: When hunger strikes, head over to Lil's Saloon or the Calico House Restaurant for some hearty, frontier-style fare. Both offer classic comfort foods like fried chicken, BBQ, sandwiches, and even sarsaparilla—a popular Old West drink. Dining in Calico is an experience in itself, with old-timey decor that makes you feel like you’ve traveled back to the 1800s.
Activities: Calico is packed with interactive activities that bring the past to life. Try your hand at panning for gold, take a ride on the Calico & Odessa Railroad, or embark on a self-guided tour of Maggie Mine, one of the original silver mines from the town’s heyday. For a truly quirky experience, check out the Calico Mystery Shack, where gravity seems to defy logic, and you'll find yourself questioning what’s up and what’s down. These activities are fun for both kids and adults, making Calico a family-friendly adventure.
Panning for gold at Calico Ghost Town
Calico & Odessa Railroad attraction with Halloween decorations
Halloween decorations at Calico Ghost Town
Visiting During Halloween Time
If you’re planning a visit in October, you’re in for a spooky treat! During Halloween, Calico Ghost Town transforms into a Halloween wonderland. Ghostly decorations, haunted attractions, and live entertainment stage shows add an extra layer of fun and fright. Costumed characters roam the streets, and there are plenty of family-friendly activities, including trick-or-treating, pumpkin carving, and costume contests. For those looking for a thrill, the ghost town's already eerie atmosphere becomes even more spine-tingling during Halloween. It's an ideal destination for those who love blending history with a touch of spooky fun. Check out the official Calico website for all the details.
Old mining structures at Calico Ghost Town
Overlooking Calico Ghost Town with Yermo, CA in the distance
Camping
Looking to extend your stay? Calico offers a range of camping options, perfect for a night under the desert stars. The Calico Ghost Town Campground has sites for tents and RVs, as well as cozy cabins for those who want a more comfortable experience. Facilities include restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and even a small general store for essentials. Camping at Calico is a unique experience, offering quiet, scenic desert views and the chance to explore this unique area at night.
Calico Ghost Town from the Scenic Viewpoint
Exploring old mining structures at Calico Ghost Town
Calico Candle Company building
Know Before You Go
• Admission: There’s an entry fee to access the ghost town, which is managed by San Bernardino County Regional Parks. Some of the special activities, like gold panning, the mine tour, the mystery shack, and the train ride, require additional fees. Visit the official Calico Attractions website for more info.
• Hours: Calico is open year-round, but operating hours may vary by season or during special events like Halloween. Check the official website before your visit to confirm times.
• Weather: The Mojave Desert can be extreme, with hot summers and chilly winters, so it’s important to dress accordingly and bring plenty of water.
• Accessibility: While the main street down Calico is accessible, many of the older structures and attractions, like the mine tour, may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. The park is undergoing renovations to improve accessibility, so be sure to check with park staff for updates and specific accessibility information.
• Caution: Be extra cautious when exploring the areas around the Maggie Mine and Glory Hole. The landscape is rocky and rugged, so plan footwear accordingly. And never venture beyond any posted signs warning of unstable terrain. There is a large network of old mine tunnels throughout this region, and exploring beyond the park perimeter can be extremely dangerous.
• Wildlife: You may not encounter a lot of noticeable wildlife while visiting Calico Ghost Town, but there’s a good chance you’ll see wild chukar birds scurrying around the grounds.
Wild chukar birds at Calico Ghost Town
In Summary
Thanks so much for joining me this week in the Mojave Desert. For a virtual visit of the Calico Ghost Town, make sure to watch my Behind the Blog video located at the top of this post, or watch it on YouTube here. Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
Calico Ghost Town
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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