Calico: Visit Southern California’s Ghost Town

In the late 1800s, word started to spread that a stretch of land surrounded by colorful mountains located deep in the Mojave Desert in Southern California was loaded with silver deposits. In 1881, thanks to a silver mining bonanza—the boom town of Calico began to blossom. Calico flourished for 12 years, until the price of silver plummeted and sent the town into a tailspin.

Calico would have been a forgotten ghost town if San Bernardino businessman Walter Knott—of Knott’s Berry Farm fame—had not swooped in and renovated several of the town’s historic buildings in the 1950s. For a small fee, visitors can explore Calico’s old-timey buildings, take a short train ride through the town on the Calico Odessa Railroad, and tour a once-bustling silver mine known as the Maggie Mine.

Calico’s Mystery Shack is one of the town’s most beloved attractions. The Mystery Shack is full of oddities such as a broom that seemingly stands on its own. Only the bravest souls dare to sit in the chair that is nearly impossible to get up from. The Mystery Shack will leave wondering if you have momentarily stepped into an alternate dimension.

The Calico Mining Company offers visitors the opportunity to pan for gold. Every guest will step away with a few nuggets of pyrite—otherwise known as fool’s gold. If you’re lucky, you may even walk away with a few authentic silver or gold deposits. Visitors can also peruse a gift shop that has plenty of Calico-themed merch.

Visitors who are searching for a rustic experience can book a stay at one of Calico’s on-site cabins or campsites. The cabins do not have private bathrooms or linens. There are showers and restrooms located in the campground. You may not have a private bathroom during your stay in Calico, but there is a Starbucks where you can order a mocha latte to remind yourself that you are indeed vacationing in San Bernardino County.

Calico is often described as a little more touristy and amusement park-like than your average ghost town, which is no surprise since it was restored by the founder of Knott’s Berry Farm. Despite Calico’s stylized appearance, there is still plenty of authentic history to enjoy. Calico is an excellent spot for a family trip. Visitors who are yearning for a striking view of the Mojave Desert can hike up Calico’s multicolored foothills to enjoy a panoramic view of some truly breathtaking terrain.