The drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas is the ultimate straight-shot highway experience—four hours of desert, billboards, and tumbleweeds. But fear not! There are a few quirky, must-see stops along the way to break up the monotony.

Sure, you could pull over for a selfie at Seven Magic Mountains (those giant neon rocks near Jean) or take a detour down Zzyzx Road (a name so weird it deserves its own Wikipedia entry). But the real gem? Calico Ghost Town, just off I-15 near Barstow. It’s an Old West mining town frozen in time, perfect for stretching your legs, grabbing a bite, and maybe seeing a ghost or two.

Once Upon a Time in Calico

Let’s rewind to 1881, when Calico was the place to be—California’s silver rush was booming, and this little town was the hub of all the action. Picture over 500 mines, a population of 1,200, and a thriving economy fueled by silver ore production.

Fast forward a dozen years, and the silver market collapsed faster than a sandcastle in high tide. By 1907, the town was abandoned as mining operations ceased, left to the desert winds and, apparently, some pretty clingy ghosts. Enter Walter Knott (yes, the Knott’s Berry Farm guy), who swooped in during the 1950s to give Calico a facelift. Today, it’s a perfectly preserved slice of Old West charm—and it’s open for your exploration.

What to Do in Calico: Ghosts, Gold, and Gravity 

You don’t need to be a history buff to enjoy Calico. There’s something for everyone here, whether you’re hunting for haunted vibes or just need an excuse to take a break from driving.

• The Mystery Shack: Ever wanted to see water flow uphill? This crooked house makes the laws of physics look optional.
• Gold Panning: Try your hand at prospecting and see if you can uncover a little treasure of your own.
• Narrow-Gauge Train Ride: Hop on for a short, scenic ride through Calico’s dusty trails—train whistles included.
• Shopping and Dining: With 14 shops and three restaurants, you can grab some quirky souvenirs or a bite to eat before hitting the road.

Haunted? Maybe. Spooky? Definitely.

Calico isn’t just a ghost town in name. Legend has it that a few Old West spirits decided they weren’t ready to leave. Visitors report seeing John and Lucy Lane, who ran the general store back in the day, still keeping tabs on their beloved town. So if you feel a chill down your spine while browsing the shops, it might not just be the air conditioning.

For the Adventurous

Beyond ghost stories and mining history, Calico offers modern-day fun for anyone who likes their road trips with a side of adventure:

• • Camping: Stay the night under the stars with RV hookups, cabins, and bunkhouses.
  • Off-Roading & Biking: Hit the trails and kick up some desert dust.
  • Seasonal Events: From Civil War reenactments (complete with cannon fire) to the Halloween Ghost Haunt in October, there’s always something happening.

Why You Should Stop

Calico isn’t just a cool pit stop—it’s the kind of place that turns “just another road trip” into a story. Whether you’re there for the history, the haunted vibes, or just a chance to walk around after hours in the car, it’s worth the quick detour.

And hey, when else will you get to visit a ghost town that serves lunch?

So, next time you’re cruising to Vegas, ditch the casino billboards for a little Old West charm. Calico Ghost Town is waiting—with open arms, crooked houses, and maybe a ghost or two.

Can You Bring Pets?

Yes, you can bring pets to Calico Ghost Town! Dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash and under control. Be sure to clean up after them and keep them hydrated, especially since the desert environment can get quite hot. Pets are allowed to explore the outdoor areas with you, but they may not be permitted inside some attractions or buildings, so plan accordingly.

On-Site Accommodations at Calico Ghost Town

Cabins and Bunkhouses:

These rustic lodgings let you stay right in the heart of the action. Cabins offer basic comforts, while bunkhouses are great for groups or families looking for a budget-friendly option.

Campgrounds:

• • Tent Camping: Pitch your tent under the stars and enjoy the desert ambiance.
  • RV Sites: Equipped with hookups for water, power, and sewer, perfect for travelers with RVs.

Vegan-Friendly Dining

While the menu at Calico House Restaurant leans heavily on classic comfort foods, you can often find options like salads, baked potatoes, or fries that can be customized to suit a vegan diet. Alternatively, you could bring your own food and enjoy a picnic at the town, or take a short drive to Barstow for a wider variety of vegan-friendly dining options.

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