27 Ghost Towns In Arizona [MAP]

Last Updated on October 5, 2023 by Urbex Underground

If you’re searching for ghost towns in Arizona, we’ve got you covered! Below are 27 different ghost towns you can explore across the great state of Arizona along with their status and exact GPS coordinates.

We rate ghost towns in Arizona based on their status. Here’s how our system works:

• Abandoned: Is abandoned with ruins and structures in a decayed state. Great for urban explorers.
• Historic: Preservation efforts have been made and sometimes plaques installed. Great for everyone.
• Barren: Almost nothing remains of the town. Ideal for metal detectorists.
• Commercial: Is commercially owned with amenities, restaurants, and stores. Great for families.
• Semi-Abandoned: Abandoned areas with a small population in the area.
• Privately Owned: Tours might be available but not open to the general public.

History:

Adamsville, Arizona, once a bustling farm town, was established in 1866 by Fred A. Adams, originally from New Mexico. Located in the Gila Valley, it was moved later to the Salt River Valley to capitalize on the fertile lands.

The Bichard brothers, notable entrepreneurs, built a state-of-the-art flouring mill and opened various stores, contributing to the town’s growth. Despite its modest size, Adamsville was once the hub of activity in the Gila Valley. However, the town was largely abandoned after the Gila River flooded it in the late 1800s, leading to its eventual decline.

What’s Left?

Today, Adamsville exists as a ghost town, having seen its population taper off considerably by the 1920s. Situated at an elevation of 1,450 feet on the south bank of the Gila River, west of Florence, the town offers a few relics for urban explorers. Among these remnants are an old cemetery and a smattering of ruins from buildings that once stood there.

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History:

Agua Caliente in Arizona was once a bustling resort town, particularly popular during the 1930s. Originally named after its natural hot springs, the area was first used by Native Americans before attracting white settlers.

In the 1940s, the town underwent a consolidation into three districts. Over the years, agricultural activities like farming and irrigation led to the depletion of the springs, contributing to the decline of the town. Despite this, the population remained mostly white throughout its history.

What’s Left?

The ruins of the old Agua Caliente resort can still be seen today, along with some signs of life scattered throughout the town. The natural hot springs that once drew people to the area have diminished due to agricultural use, but the Pioneer Cemetery remains a historical point of interest.

Contrary to popular belief, the cemetery is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it does offer a glimpse into 19th-century life in the region. Visitors exploring the area can experience a touch of the past amid the remnants of this once-thriving resort town.

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History:

Alto, Arizona, has a rich history that extends beyond mere ruins. The town holds the distinction of being the home to the United States’ first female postmaster, Minnie Bond. Established as a small community, Alto flourished briefly but like many other ghost towns, faced a decline and was eventually abandoned.

What’s Left?

Today, the area features various ruins scattered across an isolated stretch of the Arizona desert, inviting explorers to uncover its past. Additionally, a campsite is conveniently located just outside the ruins, making Alto an ideal destination for urban explorers who enjoy camping while delving into the historical aspects of the region.

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History:

Bellevue, Arizona, located five miles south of Miami, was once a thriving mining community. Established in the 1880s, the town saw its peak population of about 300 people by 1925.

Bellevue boasted various amenities like a post office, an assay office, and two newspapers. However, a decline set in when several mines closed in 1927, leading to the abandonment of the community. Today, the town serves as an atmospheric locale for those interested in Arizona’s mining history.

What’s Left?

Visitors to Bellevue can still find remnants of its once-prosperous mining era. The Gibson Copper mill stands in partial ruin, a testament to the town’s past, along with scattered ore piles.

While the post office and newspapers are long gone, these enduring structures and deposits provide a fascinating glimpse into what life was like during the town’s heyday. Explorers can walk among these historical markers, taking in the eerie atmosphere of this abandoned mining town.

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History:

As you traverse Arizona, you’ll encounter various abandoned towns, each with its own unique tale. Bonita, located in Graham County, is one such intriguing ghost town. Unlike some forgotten locales that leave no lasting impression, Bonita offers both historical insight and natural beauty, making it a worthwhile detour for travelers.

What’s Left?

To reach Bonita, visitors can take a dirt road that not only provides access to the town but also offers stunning vistas and opportunities to observe local wildlife. Due to the remote location and the condition of the road, caution and preparation are advisable for those planning a trip.

Once in Bonita, explorers will find the remnants of a community that once thrived here, an atmospheric setting that combines both the historical and the natural in a compelling way.

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History:

Arizona is home to numerous ghost towns that offer glimpses into the history of mining and the Old West, and Cedar is one such town. The community saw the establishment of its first post office in 1895, although it eventually forwarded its mail to the nearby Yucca District as the town declined.

What’s Left?

Visitors to Cedar will find a wealth of rock ruins and mining remnants, offering an extensive look into the town’s past. Nestled in a canyon, the area is dense with both natural beauty and historical structures. A surprisingly large number of abandoned buildings are scattered throughout the town, making it a rich site for exploration and a deeper understanding of Arizona’s mining history.

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History:

Cerbat is an Arizona ghost town with a captivating history. Founded in the early 1860s, it flourished for a time and even served as the county seat in 1877 before the designation was transferred to Mineral Park. Despite its early promise, Cerbat eventually fell into decline and became a ghost town.

What’s Left?

The area around Cerbat now features a cemetery that stands as a solemn reminder of the town’s past. Located adjacent to the ghost town itself, the cemetery is accessible only by a high-clearance vehicle due to the rough terrain. For those who make the journey, the experience offers a poignant look into the history and the lives that once populated this now-deserted community.

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History:

Situated 55 miles southwest of Tucson on the Arivaca Road, between Amado and Arivaca, Cerro Colorado is a mining district steeped in legend and history. The town is particularly famous for two things: the tragic massacre of mining workers by Mexican outlaws and its high-grade surface silver, which comes from the nearby Cerro Colorado Mine.

What’s Left?

Today, Cerro Colorado remains a largely abandoned mining town in southern Arizona. The once-rich deposits that initially spurred the growth of small communities have since led to the cessation of mining operations.

For those who venture to this desolate area, the remnants of the town provide a compelling glimpse into the Wild West era, complete with all its complexities and contradictions.

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History:

Harshaw, Arizona, situated in the Coronado National Forest, was a thriving community during the early 1900s, buoyed by the gold and silver booms. As the price of silver fluctuated, the town’s population declined. In 1963, the Forest Service initiated a plan to help residents relocate to a more sustainable area, but the efforts proved unsuccessful, leaving only a few inhabitants

What’s Left?

Located just south of Patagonia, Harshaw stands as one of Arizona’s most intriguing ghost towns. The majority of the town remains vacant, offering a haunting but captivating tableau for visitors.

Explorers can walk among the dilapidated buildings and the empty streets, each a silent testament to the community that once thrived in this challenging landscape.

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History:

The Hilltop Ghost Town in Arizona offers a rich historical experience, particularly for those interested in the state’s mining past. Established as a mining community, the town was abandoned in the late 1920s after the closure of the local mine. Notable remnants like the old schoolhouse still stand, making it an intriguing destination for those looking to delve into history.

What’s Left?

For those planning to explore Hilltop, caution is advised. The town’s deteriorating condition makes it unsafe for casual visits, and it’s recommended to explore the area only with an experienced guide.

While some buildings and structures are still accessible to the public, visitors should be mindful of the risks involved and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe exploration experience.

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History:

Lochiel, Arizona, is a small ghost town accessible via a dirt road, offering a unique window into the past. This tiny community once served as a border crossing, and while it may not appeal to all travelers, it holds a certain nostalgic charm for those interested in history.

What’s Left?

The journey to Lochiel is a scenic one, offering beautiful landscapes and chances for wildlife spotting. Once there, visitors can find various ancient buildings standing in different states of decay. Depending on the time of day and the safety conditions, you may explore these abandoned structures to get a feel for what life was like in this once-bustling border town.

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History:

Ruby, Arizona, is a captivating ghost town that was abandoned in 1941. Originally a mining community, the town still features a number of well-preserved buildings left behind by the mining company, offering a glimpse into the area’s past.

What’s Left?

To reach Ruby, drive a few miles from Arivaca, Arizona. The road turns to dirt halfway through the journey, but it’s well-maintained and easily navigable. Once there, visitors will find an abandoned mine along with a well-preserved mercantile, a three-room school, a playground, and other various structures.

This array of historical buildings makes Ruby one of the more well-preserved ghost towns in Arizona, offering an enriching experience for explorers.

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History:

The Sasco ghost town in Arizona is a small, little-known mining town. Named after the Southern Arizona Smelting Company, Sasco was established in 1907 and operated until 1921. Sasco’s history is intriguing, and you should try to visit it when you’re in the area.

What’s Left?

Despite its vanishing past, Sasco has some interesting ruins to explore. Although the ruins of the mining operation are still present, you can still see the old post office, hotel, and all other buildings associated with a mining operation. The plain concrete headstones are also some of the remaining. You may be able to spot a few of them on the ruins.

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History:

Sasco, a little-known ghost town in Arizona, was named after its founding company, the Southern Arizona Smelting Company. Established in 1907, the mining town thrived for a period before it ceased operations in 1921. The town’s history is both compelling and relatively obscure, making it an intriguing destination for those interested in Arizona’s mining past.

What’s Left?

Although Sasco has largely faded into the annals of history, a number of intriguing ruins remain. Visitors can explore the remnants of the mining operation as well as the old post office, hotel, and other structures typical of a mining community. Among these remains, plain concrete headstones also dot the landscape, adding another layer to the town’s historical texture.

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History:

Duquesne, often referred to as “downtown” Duquesne, has been abandoned for nearly a century. This Arizona town was once a bustling mining community, complete with mines, various structures, and even a hotel situated off Duquesne Road in a forested area.

What’s Left?

Today, the Duquesne Ghost Town offers a variety of ruins to explore. Notably, it was once the site of the Westinghouse Electric Company’s headquarters and the Bonanza Mine.

Visitors can also see the ruins of homes and businesses, including a house once owned by George Westinghouse himself. Additional remnants like a boarding house, a brothel, and an old cemetery add depth to the town’s layered history.

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History:

Weaver, Arizona, was a gold mining town established in 1863 following the discovery of gold in the area. The town was named after Pauline Weaver, a mountain man, trapper, military scout, and prospector who led a group to discover gold on Rich Hill, situated on the town’s east side. Pauline Weaver became Arizona’s first white citizen and took up residence on the hill, where the cemetery still exists today.

What’s Left?

Weaver remains one of Arizona’s more intriguing ghost towns, rich with old, crumbling homes and ruins. The town offers a treasure trove of exploration opportunities, making it an ideal location for history buffs, explorers, and photographers to capture the essence of a bygone era.

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History:

Big Bug, one of the oldest ghost towns in Arizona, was established in 1862 by Theodore Boggs and his family during the American Civil War. Originally home to around one hundred people, the town was eventually abandoned and now serves as a recreation area within the Prescott National Forest. It’s named after Big Bug Creek, which got its name from the large bugs that inhabited the region.

What’s Left?

Though almost nothing remains of the original town, it still holds historical significance, particularly in relation to the nearby old mining camp at Providence. For those interested in relic hunting or historical exploration, the area where Big Bug once stood could offer some buried treasures. To visit, you’ll need to use GPS coordinates, as it is now primarily a recreation area.

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History:

Obed, an Arizona ghost town, was once a bustling transportation hub, serving as a stage line to silver mines in the region. For those interested in history and old photographs, the town offers a window into its vibrant past when it was alive with activity and ambition.

What’s Left?

Today, Obed stands as a hauntingly beautiful testament to the dreams of fortune seekers, offering an evocative experience for visitors. Although little may remain in the way of buildings or infrastructure, vintage black-and-white photos can offer a glimpse into what the town used to be. Obed is among eight must-see ghost towns in Southern Arizona, each offering its own unique history and atmosphere.

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History:

Goldfield Ghost Town is a reconstructed 1890s mining town in Arizona that offers a glimpse into the state’s gold mining history. Visitors can tour an authentic gold mine, witness Old West gunfights, and explore the history museum. Ideal for those interested in Arizona’s past, Goldfield offers a unique and immersive experience that’s not your typical tourist attraction.

What’s Left?

Today, Goldfield Ghost Town serves as an entertainment and historical venue that’s not far removed from modern amenities. It is located close to the Superstition Mountains, providing visitors with stunning desert vistas.

Despite being a reconstructed town, it offers an authentic feel, complete with period-appropriate buildings and activities that transport you back to the 1890s.

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History:

Goldfield Ghost Town is a reconstructed 1890s mining town in Arizona that offers a glimpse into the state’s gold mining history. Visitors can tour an authentic gold mine, witness Old West gunfights, and explore the history museum. Ideal for those interested in Arizona’s past, Goldfield offers a unique and immersive experience that’s not your typical tourist attraction.

What’s Left?

Today, Goldfield Ghost Town serves as an entertainment and historical venue that’s not far removed from modern amenities. It is located close to the Superstition Mountains, providing visitors with stunning desert vistas.

Despite being a reconstructed town, it offers an authentic feel, complete with period-appropriate buildings and activities that transport you back to the 1890s.

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History:

Castle Dome Landing, located northeast of Yuma, Arizona, was once a bustling mining community first discovered by American settlers in the 1860s. The town’s post office opened in 1875 but closed a year later. The mines reopened in 1890 and contributed significantly to lead supplies during World War I and World War II. Castle Dome Landing serves as an important chapter in the region’s mining history.

What’s Left?

The site was eventually renamed “Castle Dome” and served as a transport depot for steamboats on the Colorado River, as well as a shipping and supply point. At one point, it even rivaled Yuma and was a lively destination during Mexican Independence Day celebrations. Today, visitors can explore a museum that showcases many elements of the town’s vibrant past, offering a glimpse into its rich history.

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History:

Established in 1862, Chloride is the oldest continuously operated mining town in Arizona. At its peak, the town had a population of around three thousand, but by the late 20th century, the number had dwindled to about four hundred. The manpower drain during World War II significantly affected the community, leading to its decline as a mining town.

What’s Left?

While the town is considered one of the best-preserved ghost towns, it is experiencing a resurgence thanks to tourism. Among the town’s attractions are colorful murals painted by Roy Purcell in the 1960s. A museum also offers insight into Chloride’s rich history. The vivid murals have largely retained their original colors, making Chloride a popular destination for tourists interested in history and art.

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History:

Klondyke, Arizona, is located near the eastern entrance to Aravaipa Canyon and is a short day trip from Tucson. Established in 1905, the town was a thriving community with a population of about 500 people. It had essential amenities like a school, church, saloon, and a wooden store. However, like many ghost towns in the region, Klondyke declined as its lead and silver mines were exhausted.

What’s Left?

Today, Klondyke remains largely abandoned with its unpaved roads as a testament to its past. While not much is left of the original structures, you can still see some remnants of the old community. The area offers a serene, isolated experience for those looking to explore a piece of Arizona’s mining history.

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History:

Oatman, Arizona, is a historic ghost town conveniently situated near Las Vegas and California. Known for its year-round warm weather, the town can get particularly crowded and hot during the summer. It’s advisable to visit during the milder spring and fall seasons.

The Oatman Hotel, where Clark Gable and Carole Lombard honeymooned in 1939, was a famous haunt for local miners, who left their mark on the walls with signed dollar bills.

What’s Left?

The town’s Main Street is a highlight for visitors, primarily because of the “wild” burros that roam freely. These burros are descendants of animals brought by early miners and were left to roam after the mines closed.

Stores in the area sell nutritional food packets specifically for the burros, so you can feed them safely. Be mindful, though; some of these burros are curious enough to poke their heads through open windows.

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History:

Stanton, Arizona, was a thriving mining and stagecoach station in the 1890s, complete with a general store, a stamp mill, a hotel, and several other buildings. As the gold reserves depleted, the town went into decline. Now a modern-day ghost town, Stanton offers a unique atmosphere replete with ghost stories, and even includes RV hookup sites and a museum to showcase its mining history.

What’s Left?

Unfortunately, many original structures were destroyed in the 1960s when a group of hippies moved in and used the old buildings for firewood. However, some of the town’s historical buildings have been restored, including the old dance hall and saloon. These restored structures offer a glimpse into the town’s vibrant past.

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History:

Salero, located in Santa Cruz County, Arizona, is a well-preserved ghost town that is privately owned by Salero Ranch. Unfortunately, it is not open to the general public. Despite its restricted access, the town retains many of its original structures.

What’s Left?

Although Salero is not open to public exploration, you can still see some of its preserved buildings from a distance. If you’re interested in Arizona’s ghost towns, consider taking a guided tour of other locations, as Salero is not accessible. These tours often provide valuable insights into the state’s mining history and can be a great addition to a trip that might also include the Grand Canyon or the White Mountains.

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History:

Vulture City is a unique, uninhabited ghost town that was once a mining community. Though the town itself is unsupervised, guided walking tours are available for those who wish to learn more about its history. The site is open to the public for limited hours, so planning ahead is advisable for anyone interested in exploring the town.

What’s Left?

Visitors can wander through the town to explore various historic buildings and roads. The area is also known for its striking desert landscapes, complete with saguaros and beautiful sunsets. Interestingly, the site even allows for ceremonies like vow renewals, adding a unique, ghostly ambiance to the occasion.

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Go out and explore!

That concludes our list of ghost towns in Arizona, but that doesn’t mean that’s all there is to find. Take the back roads, follow train tracks, and find some places for yourself. There are plenty of places I kept off this list so get out there and explore.

If you’re having trouble finding ghost towns be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Finding Abandoned Places, or explore other ghost towns across the country.