The Calico Ghost Town is a short drive from your Anaheim hotel, located at 36600 Ghost Town Road in Yermo. The venue is open every day, except Christmas, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors can make camping reservations by calling 800-TO-CALICO, or simply stop at the Wild West mining town. A tourist favorite for over 100 years. In 1881, the biggest silver strike in the state took place at this site. In the short span of just 12 years the 500 mines drummed up more than $20 million in revenue. Sadly, silver began to lose its value in 1890 and Calico residents fled from the area.
Why Is It Called a Ghost Town?
Miners left and abandoned what was a thriving city just a few years prior and Calico became a ghost town very quickly. Walter Knott (of Knott’s Berry Farm) bought the town in the 1950s and started restoring all the buildings to look identical to their appearance of the 1880s. Former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger declared Calico an official California Silver Rush Ghost Town in 2005.
You Look Like You’ve Seen a Ghost
Calico is managed by the San Bernardino County Regional Parks system and the ghost town draws visitors from around the world. Visiting is a great way to find out more about the city’s history and the beauty of the surrounding desert. Visitors will find some contemporary restaurants, shops and camping options to enjoy some outdoor fun around Calico. Keep in mind that the Calico mines are dangerous and most of the city is not handicap accessible.
Check It Out in Calico
Visit the Lucy Lane Museum to check out some unique artifacts. Visit the Maggie Mine to see a restored mine that is over 100 years old and the Mystery Shack Tour where you will be amazed by some optical illusions. Ghost tours, gold panning and the Odessa Railroad are waiting for you to explore. Come discover and enjoy a blast from the past.
