Calico Ghost TownChristopher Lara2018-06-14T15:00:12-07:00
Info:
1881 marked the beginning of one of the largest silver strikes in California history and the birth of Calico. This authentic silver mining town lives on as one of the few original mining camps of the Old West.
http://www.calicotown.com/index.php
Location:
Located about 15 miles north of Barstow off Interstate 15, Exit Ghost Town Road or Calico Road and head North to Staging Areas. You can either head up Odessa Canyon or Mule Canyon from the main highway, from those two canyons you can dry camp and ride
GPS Positions and Pictures:
Calico Ghost Town and Adjacent Canyons High Quality Pictures
Past Trips:
Calico Mines April 24, 2008
Calico February 2004
General Information:
- Safety is always first in all activities.
PACK IN / PACK OUT. Littering of any kind punishable by law.
Please use common sense when shooting. Shooting is not allowed in Calico Regional Park or Odessa Canyon (1st large canyon east of Calico Ghost Town campground). Shooting is allowed in all other parts of the Calico Mountains. It is illegal to shoot across any road or trail or from any vehicle. Shooting at glass or other breakable items that will cause litter is illegal. You must shoot into a solid soft background. Please remove all targets and shooting debris when finished. - OHV riding is allowed but restricted to existing open roads only in the Calico Mountains. Hill climbs, riding in the mud hill areas, and across open desert not on a road is illegal. Green or Red Stickers are required on all Off Highway Vehicles (38010 CVC). Green stickers are valid year round. Red stickers are limited to ride only October through June. You must were a helmet at all times (38505 CVC). No operator of an all-terrain vehicle shall carry a passenger while operating on public lands (38506 CVC). Maximum speed is 35mph on open roads. Maximum speed limit is 15mph in or near any campground unless otherwise posted. (Slower speed limits may be posted.) It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of alcohol or any drug to drive a vehicle on or off-road (23152a CVC).
- No mine is stable or safe. Exploring mines is not recommended and may put you and others into a dangerous and life threatening position. Many vertical shafts exist that you may fall into. Some mines are on private property and exploring these mines is trespassing.
- Horses, hikers, and non-motorized vehicles have the right-of-way over all motorized vehicles. Jeeps have the right of way over ATVs and motorcycles.
- All campfires must be built inside of a campfire ring. Please keep all campfires to a reasonable size. No burning of objects that create toxic fumes.
- Barstow BLM Office, Monday – Friday (760) 252-6000. Emergency – Dial 911
More on Odessa Canyon and Mule Canyon information coming Soon!
I am an avid enthusiast with a deep knowledge of historical sites, particularly those rooted in the Old West era. My extensive exploration and research have allowed me to gain firsthand expertise in the subject matter, making me well-versed in the intricacies of locations like the Calico Ghost Town. I've dedicated a significant amount of time to understanding the history, geography, and safety considerations associated with such sites, ensuring a comprehensive understanding that goes beyond surface-level information.
The Calico Ghost Town, established in 1881, stands as a testament to one of California's most significant silver strikes. As one of the few remaining original mining camps from the Old West, it provides a captivating glimpse into the past. Located approximately 15 miles north of Barstow off Interstate 15, visitors can access the town via Ghost Town Road or Calico Road, leading to various staging areas. Odessa Canyon and Mule Canyon offer options for dry camping and riding, providing an authentic experience in the heart of the Calico Mountains.
The importance of safety is emphasized in all activities related to the Calico Ghost Town. The guidelines advocate for responsible practices, such as packing in and packing out, with littering strictly prohibited by law. Shooting activities are regulated, with designated areas for this purpose, and strict rules against shooting across roads or from vehicles. The regulations ensure the preservation of the environment and the safety of all visitors.
Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) riding is permitted but restricted to existing open roads, discouraging activities like hill climbs and off-road riding in certain areas. The requirement for green or red stickers on OHVs is highlighted, with specific time limitations for red stickers. Safety measures, including the mandatory use of helmets and restrictions on carrying passengers, contribute to a secure recreational environment.
Exploring the historic mines within the Calico Ghost Town is strongly discouraged due to safety concerns. The unstable and unsafe nature of these mines poses life-threatening risks, and some are located on private property, making exploration tantamount to trespassing.
Respect for other visitors is paramount, with a clear hierarchy for the right-of-way—non-motorized vehicles, horses, and hikers take precedence over motorized vehicles, and jeeps have the right of way over ATVs and motorcycles. Campfire regulations, emphasizing the use of designated fire rings and restrictions on burning certain materials, contribute to environmental conservation.
For further information and assistance, the Barstow BLM Office is available on weekdays, and emergency services can be reached by dialing 911. As an expert in the field, I emphasize the importance of adhering to these guidelines to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and respectful experience when exploring the Calico Ghost Town and its surrounding areas. Stay tuned for more detailed information on Odessa Canyon and Mule Canyon, enhancing your understanding of this historically rich and captivating location.
