travel tips: calico ghost town, ca
Welcome to the dusty trails and legendary tales of Calico Ghost Town! Nestled in the stunning Mojave Desert near Barstow, California, Calico isn't just a collection of old buildings – it's a living, breathing testament to California's exhilarating silver mining boom of the 1880s. Once a bustling hub of prospectors and pioneers, Calico saw riches, hardship, and ultimately, became a ghost of its former self when silver prices plummeted.
Today, meticulously preserved as a San Bernardino County Regional Park, Calico Ghost Town offers an unparalleled journey into the Wild West.
know before you go
best time to visit
- Cooler Months are Key: The Mojave Desert gets extremely hot. The best time to visit is during the winter months (December to February) when temperatures are cooler. Spring (March-April) and Fall (October-November) can also be pleasant but still warm.
- Morning Hours: Even in cooler months, it's best to arrive when the park opens at 9:00 AM. You'll beat the biggest crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures before the midday sun.
- Avoid Summer Afternoons: If visiting in summer, strictly avoid the hottest part of the day (mid-afternoon). The heat can be intense and uncomfortable.
- Special Events: Calico hosts various events throughout the year (e.g., Calico Bluegrass Festival in May, Halloween events in October, California Days in February, Holiday Festival in November). Check their official website for event schedules, as these can be fun but also draw larger crowds and may have special admission fees.
what to pack
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: You'll be walking on dirt roads, uneven terrain, and potentially rocky paths. Closed-toe, comfortable shoes are essential.
- Sun Protection: Regardless of the season, bring a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. The desert sun is intense, and shade is limited in many areas.
- Plenty of Water: Bring more water than you think you'll need, especially if visiting during warmer months. Staying hydrated is crucial.
- Layered Clothing: Even if it's hot during the day, desert evenings can cool down significantly. Layers are a good idea.
admission & activities
- General Admission Fee: There's an entry fee to the ghost town itself (currently around $8 for adults, $5 for youth 4-11, free for under 3s).
- Separate Attraction Fees: Many of the popular attractions within the town have separate fees. These typically include:
- Maggie Mine Tour: A self-guided walk through an authentic 1880s silver mine.
- Mystery Shack: A quirky attraction with optical illusions and gravity-defying tricks.
- Gold Panning Adventure: Try your hand at panning for "fool's gold" (pyrite).
- Calico Odessa Railroad: A short train ride offering scenic views and historical narration around the mining area.
- Package Tickets: You can often save money by purchasing a bundled package ticket that includes several of these attractions. Inquire at any of the attraction ticketing counters.
- Camping Perk: If you camp at the Calico Ghost Town campgrounds, your admission to the town is often included.
Transport options & pets
- Car is Essential: Calico Ghost Town is located off I-15 near Barstow and is best accessed by car. There's ample parking available.
- Pet-Friendly: Calico Ghost Town is pet-friendly! Dogs are welcome for a small fee (currently $1) but must be on a 6-foot leash at all times. They are generally allowed in the attractions too.
accessibility
Calico Ghost Town offers partial accessibility. While the main street is paved and relatively flat, making it navigable for many with mobility aids, some areas present challenges.
- Main Street: Mostly flat and paved, good for walkers/canes.
- Parking: Accessible spots exist, but some lots have stairs to the main street.
- Buildings & Terrain: Many buildings have stairs, and the town's hillside location means inclines and uneven ground in places.
- Train Ride: Limited accessibility.
- Restaurants: Some may be accessible with ramped porches.
Overall, while not fully ADA compliant, Calico Ghost Town aims to accommodate visitors, and many areas are enjoyable for those with mobility challenges.
during your visit
exploring the town
- Start with the Main Street: Walk along the main street lined with historic buildings, shops, and places to eat. Many buildings have been restored to their original appearance.
- Visit the Museums/Historic Buildings: Look for the Lucy Lane Museum (a former home with artefacts), the Fire Hall (housing an old fire truck), the Calico Jail, and the replica School House.
- Scenic Views: Don't miss the short walk up the hill behind the town for panoramic views of the town and surrounding desert landscape. The area around the School House also offers great photo opportunities.
- Photography: This is a fantastic place for photos! Consider wearing some Western-themed attire (cowboy hats, bandanas) for fun, stylized pictures.
- Beware of Mines: While you can visit Maggie Mine, many old mine shafts in the surrounding area are abandoned and extremely dangerous. Do not venture beyond marked and safe areas.
food & drink
- Lil's Saloon: Evokes that classic frontier feel, serving up hearty pizza, hot dogs, and a cold beer to quench your thirst.
- Old Miner's Cafe: Provides a solid selection of burgers, sandwiches, and a well-deserved scoop of ice cream. While the style is relaxed and 'theme park-esque'.
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