Visiting Silver City Ghost Town in Bodfish, CA: History, Hauntings & Tips
Located in the scenic Kern River Valley near Lake Isabella, Silver City Ghost Town in Bodfish, California, offers a captivating step back to the rugged days of California’s Gold Rush and silver-mining era. This open-air museum features over 20 authentic historic buildings relocated from abandoned mining camps throughout the region, along with thousands of artifacts that bring frontier life vividly to life.
Whether you’re a history buff, antique enthusiast, or someone intrigued by tales of the paranormal, Silver City delivers an immersive experience. The site preserves the authentic “arrested decay” of old Western structures, complete with creaky floorboards, dusty relics, and stories of outlaws and everyday pioneers. A short drive from Lake Isabella and Kernville makes it an ideal day trip destination for those exploring the Southern Sierra Nevada.
Exploring Silver City Ghost Town: Historic Buildings and Artifacts
Visitors enter through the main building, which doubles as a country store and saloon filled floor-to-ceiling with antiques and collectibles—many of which are available for purchase. From here, you can wander freely among the structures.
The Original Isabella Jail stands as one of the most striking stops. This genuine frontier lockup once held notorious gunslinger Newt Walker in 1905 after he surrendered to Kern County Sheriff John Kelly. Shackle rings embedded in the floor and eerie markings on the walls tell tales of harsh Wild West justice. Many visitors report orbs in photographs and a chilling atmosphere, contributing to the site’s haunted reputation.
The Apalatea-Burlando House, the oldest structure on the property, originally belonged to Italian immigrant Matt Burlando, a blacksmith who purchased it in 1915 to establish a cattle ranch. Today it serves as the Silver City Saloon and country store, showcasing an impressive array of period artifacts.
Other highlights include authentic miners’ cabins, a rustic church with a weathered piano and coffin display, a post office, and various outbuildings. Creepy yet fascinating mannequin displays populate many interiors, enhancing the immersive feel.
The History of Silver City Ghost Town
Silver City is not an original town but a carefully assembled collection of historic structures rescued from across the Kern River Valley. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Dave and Arvilla Mills began relocating buildings from sites such as Keyesville, Whiskey Flat, and Old Isabella to prevent their loss.
The site operated for a time but later fell into disrepair. In 1992, new owners— the Corlew family—undertook extensive restoration efforts, logging thousands of person-hours to preserve the buildings while maintaining their authentic, weathered appearance. Today, the town operates under a policy of “arrested decay,” ensuring structures look much as they did decades ago.
Silver City has earned a listing in the National Directory of Haunted Places. Owner accounts and visitor reports include poltergeist activity, such as objects moving on their own. The site has also served as a filming location for movies and TV segments on the paranormal.
Antique Treasures and Collectibles
Silver City functions as a treasure hunter’s paradise. Thousands of mining tools, household items, furniture, and frontier artifacts fill the buildings. The main antique store offers a selection of items for sale, allowing you to take a piece of history home. Browsing the collection provides deep insight into daily life during the mining boom.
Nearby Attraction: Kern Valley Museum in Kernville
For a well-rounded historical day trip, pair your visit to Silver City with a stop at the Kern Valley Museum in nearby Kernville (about 15-20 minutes north). Located at 49 Big Blue Road, this excellent free museum (donations welcome) complements Silver City perfectly by diving deeper into the region’s story.
Open Thursday through Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM, the museum features extensive exhibits on Tubatulabal Native American history (including baskets, tools, and ceremonial items), Gold Rush mining artifacts, ranching and farming tools, lumbering history, and the area’s rich legacy in Western filmmaking (John Wayne, Roy Rogers, and others filmed here). A rotating art gallery showcases local artists, and a gift shop offers unique souvenirs.
Friendly docents often provide guided tours, making it an engaging and educational stop that adds valuable context to the buildings you’ll see at Silver City.
Information for Your Visit
- Address: 3829 Lake Isabella Blvd, Bodfish, CA 93205
- Hours: Generally open daily 10 AM – 4 PM (until 5 PM on weekends during peak season, May 15 – Sept 14). Weekends only in the off-season. Closed major holidays. Weather-dependent—call ahead.
- Admission: Adults $5.50–$7 (varies slightly by source), children 6- 12 $4.50, under 6 free. All proceeds support ongoing preservation.
- Contact: (760) 379-5146 or ghosttown@verizon.net
The site is outdoors with some uneven terrain, so wear comfortable shoes. Guided tours may be available by appointment.
FAQ: Visiting Silver City Ghost Town
Is Silver City Ghost Town actually haunted?
Many visitors and owners report paranormal activity, including orbs, moving objects, and a strong presence in certain buildings, such as the jail and the vortex room. It’s listed in haunted place directories, but experiences vary.
How long does a visit take?
Most people spend 1–2 hours exploring, though enthusiasts or photographers may linger longer. Combining with the Kern Valley Museum makes for a full half- or full-day trip.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, the site is generally dog-friendly on leash.
Is it suitable for kids?
Absolutely—kids enjoy the “old Western town” feel, though some mannequin displays and haunted stories may be spooky for very young children.
Can I buy things there?
Yes, the main store has a large selection of antiques and collectibles for sale.
Is there food on site?
No, but nearby Lake Isabella and Kernville offer dining options.
Silver City Ghost Town provides a unique, low-cost window into California’s pioneering past. Combined with Lake Isabella’s outdoor recreation and the Kern Valley Museum’s exhibits, it creates a memorable day trip filled with history, mystery, and small-town charm. Whether hunting for antiques, chasing ghost stories, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this Bodfish gem rewards every visitor.
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