Bodie State Historic Park
Bodie State Historic Park is a genuine California gold-mining ghost town frozen in a state of "arrested decay." Once a bustling harbor of gold and grit in the late 1800s, today visitors can walk down deserted streets alongside preserved, weathered buildings. Remarkably, only about ten percent of the original structures still stand today.
- Admission
- $8 adults, $5 children (ages 5-17), free for children under 5
- Hours
- 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (May 15 to October 31), 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (November 1 to May 14)
- Duration
- 2-3 hours
- Parking
- Standard vehicle parking is available at the main entrance lot and is included with the park entrance fee.
- Access
- Uneven dirt roads and wooden boardwalks; some structures are viewable only from the exterior due to historic preservation.
Read more
Bodie State Historic Park is one of the most famous and well-preserved ghost towns in the American West. Founded in 1859 after the discovery of gold, it boomed into a wild gold-mining town of nearly 10,000 residents by the late 1870s before eventually being abandoned.
Today, the park is preserved in a state of 'arrested decay,' meaning the remaining structures are stabilized but not restored or rebuilt. Visitors can wander past over 100 standing buildings, peering through dusty windows at interiors still filled with 19th-century furniture, merchandise, and personal belongings.
Located high in the scenic Bodie Hills of the Eastern Sierra, this desolate site offers an authentic glimpse into the harsh realities of California's gold rush era. Its isolated location and hauntingly quiet atmosphere make it an unforgettable stop for history buffs and photographers alike.
Ratings
parkVisitor Tips
- ◆ Bring your own food and plenty of water, as there are no commercial concessions or restaurants within the park.
- ◆ Wear comfortable, sturdy closed-toe shoes to safely navigate the dirt roads, gravel paths, and wooden boardwalks.
- ◆ Pick up a self-guided tour map at the entrance to learn the fascinating histories behind specific buildings and residents.
- ◆ Plan to arrive early in the day, especially during the summer months, to secure parking and explore before the midday heat sets in.
Heads Up
- ◆ The final three miles of the road leading to Bodie (Bodie Road/SR 270) are unpaved, rough, and can be very bumpy or muddy depending on recent weather.
- ◆ The park sits at an elevation of 8,379 feet; visitors should stay hydrated, pace themselves, and be aware of potential altitude sickness.
- ◆ Removing any artifacts, including nails, glass fragments, or rocks, is strictly prohibited by law to preserve the historic integrity of the site.
- ◆ Summer temperatures can be intensely hot with little shade, while winter weather can bring heavy snow that closes the road entirely.
Common questions
Is the road to Bodie State Historic Park paved?
The final three miles of State Route 270 leading into the park are unpaved, rough dirt and gravel. While standard passenger vehicles can usually make the drive, it is bumpy and can become impassable during winter or after heavy rain.
Can you go inside the buildings at Bodie?
Most of the historic buildings are closed to the public to preserve them, but you can look through the windows to see the furnished interiors. Access inside select structures, such as the Standard Mill, is only available via guided tours offered during the summer.
Are dogs allowed at Bodie State Historic Park?
Yes, leashed dogs are permitted in the streets and outdoor areas of the town, but they are not allowed inside any of the historic buildings, the museum, or the cemetery.
Is there food or cell service available at Bodie?
There are no food services, gasoline, or commercial facilities in the park, and cell phone reception is extremely weak or non-existent. Visitors should bring their own food and water, though drinking water is available at the visitor center during the summer.