Calico Ghost Town
- Admission
- $8 adults, $5 youth (ages 4-11), free for children under 3
- Hours
- Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Duration
- 2-4 hours
- Parking
- Ample parking available on-site; fee included with park admission
- Access
- Main street is paved but steep; many historic buildings have limited wheelchair access due to stairs and gravel paths
Step back into the 1880s at this authentic silver mining boomtown, restored by the founder of Knott's Berry Farm. Visitors can explore real silver mines, ride a historic narrow-gauge train, and stroll past dusty saloons. It's a living history experience complete with gunfight reenactments and gold panning.
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Founded in 1881 during a massive silver strike, Calico Ghost Town was once a bustling mining hub home to over 500 mines. After silver lost its value in the 1890s, the town quickly depopulated and became a ghost town before being acquired and restored by Walter Knott in the 1950s.
Today, Calico operates as a San Bernardino County regional park, preserving a mix of original historic structures and faithful reconstructions. Visitors can explore the old main street, tour the Maggie Mine, ride a narrow-gauge train, and pan for gold amidst the scenic Mojave Desert backdrop.
Ratings
attractionVisitor Tips
- ◆ Wear comfortable, sturdy closed-toe shoes as the town features steep, unpaved terrain and loose gravel paths.
- ◆ Plan your visit during the cooler months, from October to April, to avoid the extreme summer heat of the Mojave Desert.
- ◆ While general admission covers entry, keep in mind that individual attractions like the mine tour and train ride require separate fees.
- ◆ Leashed pets are welcome throughout the town, making it a convenient stop for travelers with dogs.
Heads Up
- ◆ Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a high risk of heat-related illnesses if you do not carry adequate water.
- ◆ Due to the historic preservation of the site, many buildings and steep outdoor paths are not fully wheelchair accessible.
Common questions
Are dogs allowed in Calico Ghost Town?
Yes, leashed dogs are allowed in the town for a small daily fee, though they are not permitted inside the shops, restaurants, or on the mine tour.
Can you go inside any of the mines at Calico?
Yes, you can go inside the Maggie Mine, which offers a self-guided walking tour through a restored 1880s silver mine.
Can you camp at Calico Ghost Town?
Yes, there is an onsite campground run by San Bernardino County that offers RV sites with hookups, tent sites, and cabins.
Is Calico Ghost Town wheelchair accessible?
The town is only partially accessible, as the main street has a very steep incline and many historic buildings have steps or narrow entrances.