I-15 Road Trip Stop · Mojave Desert, CA
Calico
Ghost Town
A thriving silver mining town in 1881 — and a surprising gem hiding just six minutes off I-15.
Driving through the deserts of Nevada and California along I-15 can be a mind-numbing experience. Between the Joshua Trees, solar panels, and sagebrush, there isn’t much to catch your eye. But between Baker and Barstow lies a small Ghost Town named Calico that you can visit in a few short hours — or even less if you just need a way to wake up your mind during the monotonous drive.
My family has driven past this town hundreds of times without stopping. On our last trip we finally did — and we were thrilled that we did.
From the freeway
Minutes off I-15
Just a short detour between Baker and Barstow — barely worth calling a detour at all.
Admission
Per Adult
$5 for youth ages 4–11. Children 3 and under are free. Some activities have additional costs.
How long to visit
Hours to Explore
A quick stretch-your-legs stop or a half-day adventure — entirely up to you and the kids.
A Little History
From Boom Town to Ghost Town
Calico was a thriving silver mining town founded in 1881. In the mid-1890s, silver lost its value and the town was abandoned as miners left to find work elsewhere.
Fortunately for today’s I-15 travelers, it was bought and restored in the 1950s by Walter Knott — the founder of Knott’s Berry Farm — who later donated it to San Bernardino County, where it remains a gem of their parks system.
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Sightseeing
Top Things to Do in Calico
“Step back into 1881”
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01 — First Stop
Enjoy Main Street
Take in the view and walk the street. It isn’t often you get to step back in time and imagine life in a mining town in the late 1800s. The buildings were restored to look as they did — it feels remarkably authentic.
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02 — Start Here
Visitors Center
Pick up a map of all 33 buildings and sites, cool off in the A/C, and browse historic photos and videos that put the town’s story in context. A great first stop before you set out exploring.
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03 — Explore
The Old Buildings
There are over 33 buildings and sites to visit — Town Hall, the Jail House, Saloon, School House, Fire House, and more. You could spend hours or just minutes depending on which ones you pop into.
One of our favorite stops was hiking above Maggie’s Mine for a view of the whole town. Little caves with doorways, a walking trail with railings on the steeper parts — not a difficult climb at all, and well worth it.
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04 — Underground
Explore Maggie’s Mine
This is one of the original silver mines, made secure so it’s safe to walk through. Many areas on the outskirts of town are off-limits — likely due to unsecured mine entrances — which makes this guided experience even more special.
We didn’t take time for this on our stop, but it’s on the list for next time.
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05 — All Aboard
Ride a Train
Take a narrated train ride around a prominent hill in town, passing many historical points of interest along the way. A great option for families with younger kids who need a break from walking.
Another one we’re saving for our next visit!
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06 — Kids Love It
Pan for Gold
A fantastic activity for little kids who haven’t had the experience before. Everyone around us seemed to absolutely love it. We’d done gold panning at the Mormon Battalion Historic Site in San Diego, so we opted to skip it this time — but it’s a wonderful first-time experience.
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07 — Take a Piece Home
Shop for Souvenirs
A couple of gift shops offer fun goods and wares that’ll remind you of your trip back through time. We collect ornaments and couldn’t resist a darling little gun-in-a-holster keychain — a perfect addition to the Christmas tree this year.
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08 — Refuel
Enjoy Refreshments
A few sweet shoppes and restaurants can help fill your bellies, tame a sweet tooth, or wet your whistle before you hit the road again. A great way to wrap up the visit before climbing back in the car for the rest of the drive.
📷 Add a wide desert landscape or Calico overview photo here
Before You Go
Good to Know
Check Hours & Prices
Hours and admission prices can change seasonally. Always check Calico’s official website before you visit to avoid any surprises at the gate.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain is uneven and some areas involve gentle uphill hiking. Sneakers or sturdy sandals are fine — but skip the flip-flops if you want to hike above Maggie’s Mine.
It’s the Desert
Bring water, sunscreen, and hats — especially if you’re visiting in summer. The Mojave heat is no joke, and there’s not much shade between buildings.
Worth Every Minute of the Detour
Calico is a great reprieve from the monotony of a desert road trip. It can draw you in for hours, or just give you a fun experience as you stretch your legs. Either way — stop. You won’t regret it.
Plan Your Visit at Calico’s Website →