Weather Underground: Bodie State Historic Parkforecast. The Bodie Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation dedicated to the preservation, interpretation, and public enjoyment of Bodie State Historic Park, Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve, and Grover Hot Springs State Park. The drive to get here was quite fun, especially the last 3 miles where the pavement runs out! Driving precautions:In winter, many four wheel drive vehicles with chains get stuck each year in powdery snow. So, if you are running low on gas, refuel at Lee Vining or Bridgeport (depending on which direction youre coming from). Snowmobiles must stay on designated roads in the Bodie Hills. Sub-zero temperatures, strong winds and white-out conditions are common. Directions to Bodie, CA - MapQuest . From Washington, NC, take US-17 to Williamston and follow US-64 East to Nags Head, NC and the junction of NC-12 South. However, water fountains can be found in the parking lot adjacent to the restrooms. This is not a reconstructed town! Enter your city to get quick directions to Bodie: These sites have information on road and weather conditions: Be sure to stop for gas in Bridgeport or Lee Vining (depending on which direction you are coming from)before you going to the park. A mill was established in 1861 and the town began to grow. One day I threw on a backpack, grabbed a camera, hit the trail, and never looked back. Turn right onto NC-12 South and you will be at the north entrance. Credit card is accepted only at the entrance kiosk, although cash is preferred. Bodie, California | Bodie Mercantile You cant go inside the buildings but you can peer inside and look through the windows. Please note - there are two entrances to the ghost town. Bodie State Historic Park of California is located in the Eastern Sierra in Mono County, close to Bridgeport, June Lake, Lee Vining, Mono Lake and the east entrance to Yosemite National Park. www.Bodie.com. Hwy 270 (unpaved) from its junction with State Hwy 167 north of Mono Lake. I've been to many "western towns" and none of them hold a candle to Bodie. No pets, other than service animals will be allowed. Bodie is one of the best day trips in Mono County. The drive to Bodie, California is not recommended for anyone with severe back or neck problems or any other condition that could be aggravated by the bumps. All hopes for another boom literally went up in smoke. Follow I-95 South to Richmond, VA. Take I-64 East toward Norfolk/Virginia Beach, VA. Take I-64 or I-664 to Chesapeake, VA. From I-64, take Exit 291B to Route 168, the Chesapeake Expressway (toll fees required). As well there are separate tours for the mining complex (which is not otherwise accessible). Winter weather is often unpredictable. This is a must see if you love history and ghost towns. Visiting Bodie is the most authentic way to see the real-life setting of the California gold rush. Bodie, CA Weather Radar | AccuWeather Only a small part of the town survives, preserved in a state of "arrested decay." Real town, real history - well worth it!! Visitors can walk down the deserted streets of a town that once had a population of nearly 10,000 people. Do not arrive in heels over 1.5 inches high or with bare feet. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Powered by Verbosa & WordPress. During a 30 minute tour, visitors will have the opportunity to ascend the 219 steps of the lighthouse to the balcony, following the footsteps of generations of lighthouse keepers. Please check weather and road conditions prior to visiting, and have plenty of gas. Take U.S. Hwy. Closed Areas For public protection, certain unstable sections of the park are posted as prohibited areas, and are closed to entry by park visitors. Continue on NC-12 South for approximately 5 1/2 miles then turn right on Bodie Island Lighthouse Rd. We asked about it and were told it is old glass from the days when the town was active. Looking for accommodations for your trip from California to other parts of the Southwest? Bodie Map | United States Google Satellite Maps - maplandia.com Bodie Historic District, the best-preserved ghost town from the California Gold Rush, is located 7 miles south of Bridgeport, California at an elevation of 8,379 feet in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. PDF Bodie State Historic Park Today it looks much the same as it did over 50 years ago when the last residents left. Those hills later revealed a massive amount of gold deposits and from there, the boom was in full swing. Today, it has almost 200 structures still standing. This former mining town had so much interesting history and to see the building with all the original materials inside was a lot of fun. Keep in mind that some children may not enjoy the dark, sometimes claustrophobic environment. Definitely make sure to get the walking tour book and see the 20-minute video when you arrive. And while the park is open year-round, SR 270 will close with snow. Running, jumping, or stomping on stairs and landings is not allowed. They must be leashed and theyre not permitted inside any of the structures or on the stamp mill tour. Bodie sits at 8,375 feet in elevation and has unpredictable weather patterns (even during the summer months). Today it looks much the same as it did over 50 years ago when the last residents left. stay for about 1 hour. After sending the item back, however,, the bad luck would cease and life returns to normal. Visiting Bodie is definitely the most impressive experience of the Old West. I like how authentic the place is and how it is rustic and true to form. This historic site is one of California's best ghost towns. Suitable for most stock SUVs with 4-wheel drive and moderate clearance. They are: 9:00am - 6:00pm (March 8th - October 31st), 9:00am - 4:00pm (November 1st - March 7th). For more information:
In a twist of fate, however, a fire started by a two year old playing with matches destroyed all but ten percent of the town. We provide tools and tips to discover Take US-264 East through Greenville, NC and Washington, NC. A Map of the Best California Regions The 9 Spookiest Ghost Towns in Washington State The Ultimate Death Valley Photo Tour 12 Best Small Towns in Colorado Before entering the heart of the Far West, remember that there are no gas stations in the ghost town (and it seems natural). more. All media (image, video, and written) contained on this website is copyrighted and wholly owned by KGS Media Holdings. In Bridgeport, accommodations include the historic Bridgeport Inn, Virginia Creek Settlement and a few Airbnb rentals. You can buy bottled water at the museum, but no food is available. Bodie State Historic Park is open 9am-6pm in summer (May 15th - Oct 31st) and 9am-3pm in the winter (Nov 1st - May 14th), and is best explored in warm weather in spring, summer and fall. In some cases, you can even enter and walk around the houses, venture into the rooms among the furniture and utensils of the time. The collection contains microfilmed maps and engineering drawings of mines, tunnels, power houses, surveys, portions of townships and ranges, and mining equipment at Aurora, Nevada and Bodie, Green Creek (Mono County), Mono Lake . 100% of travelers recommend this experience. The town is named for Waterman S. Body (William Bodey), who had discovered small amounts of gold in hills north of Mono Lake. Children must be capable of climbing all steps on their own. Children must be at least 42" tall and will be measured prior to climbing. The closest ones would be Reno International to the north and LAX to the south. From 1877 to 1882, Bodie was a bustling town with close to 8,000 residents and produced more than $38 million in gold and silver. Metal detectors are not allowed. People were murdered on a daily basis. Local towing services, when available, can be costly. You must show proof of payment if requested by park staff. It is located in a remote area accessed by State Route 270,seven miles south-east ofBridgeport. Learn how to create your own. You'll likely end up spending more time in Bodie than you expected. Easy ride, take your time that's all - there far bigger potholes on most Interstates here on the Eastcoast. If youre using Lee Vining or Bridgeport as your base, youre close to the majority of these (tap/click the link to read our guides on these destinations): Please support this website by subscribing to our newsletter below. Bodie State Historic Park
270 and drive 10 miles east until the paved road ends, then continue for 3 miles of an unpaved dirt road. Plan to spend several hours to all day, depending on whether you take any guided tours. Go 3.8 miles and turn right on Masonic Road (Not marked as such. This place is situated in Mono County, California, United States, its geographical coordinates are 38 12' 44" North, 119 0' 40" West and its original name (with diacritics) is Bodie. Unfortunately, there arent offered at the park either. Its advisable to dress for heat, but bring a jacket or sweater as well (yes, even during the summer). At one time there was reported to be 65 saloons in town. The town is preserved in a state of "arrested decay," which means they don't repair anything. It is a 70 minute drive from the village and on a quite bumpy road. Photos (132) Directions. In spring, mud can be a problem. www.parks.ca.gov Bodie State Historic Park Hwy. Due to the fragile nature of the structures, drone use is prohibited. There is a bookstore inside the museum where you may also inquire about daily tours. The park will be open to the public afterhours until 10pm during each Ghost Walk evening. You can find a list of hotels that will suit you at the link below: If you follow the classic route to travel through this area (you usually cross Yosemite via the Tioga Road down to Death Valley along the Eastern Sierra), my advice is to look for accommodations in Mammoth Lakes. Take I-95 North to Wilson, NC. Expect to spend two hours here. This a fully immersive historic experience that goes far beyond the kitschy. The first part is tarmac normal road the last 2 miles is dirt track but flattened with the odd bump or pit hole that was easy to swerve. it really wasnt a problem and this may sound silly but it built up the anticipation and authenticity of it in a way. dont let it stop you. By participating in these tours and Friends of Bodie Day, youre helping the Bodie Foundation provide a constant stream of funding to keep the buildings in Bodie standing. Follow US-158 East through Nags Head, NC to the junction of NC-12 South. We also recommend bringing sunscreen, hat,and a jacket or layers (even in summer)! There is a bookstore inside the museum where you may also inquire about daily tours. and cultural destinations in your zip code and across the country. They give moretours, but it can get hot at mid-day. Box 515, Bridgeport, CA 93517. From: To: Road and Weather Conditions In such case, proper credit will be given. Bodie, California, is perhapsone of the best-preserved ghost towns in the western United States. So if youre paying with cash, bring exact change. Some records show that a Wm. Unstable buildings and of course mine shafts. Investigate weather conditions before you leave home and have the tools to travel safely (a four-wheel drive vehicle, chains, tow-out equipment, food, water, warm clothing, an emergency kit, a satellite messenger device, etc.). Regardless of whether you believe in the curse or not, its up to us to do our part to ensure Bodies longevity. Guided tours are offered three times a day at 11:00, 1:00, & 3:00 (staffing dependent) for $6 dollars. Local towing services, when available, can be costly. The dirt road (we went in August) was absolutely no problem, don't understand the worry of some of the reviewers. Moderate 4.5 (81) Bodie State Historic Park. Bodie State Historic Park (Bridgeport) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. Side trip to Masonic Mountain is narrow and rough, but still easy. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. A few buildings remain and can scary if you were allowed to stay at night and tell ghost stories. It once had more than 10,000 people living there, drawn in by gold mining. As with accommodations, both Lee Vining and Bridgeport offer plenty of local eateries. Dogs are not allowed on the Stamp Mill tour or in the Museum. Occasionally, this website will use imagery from outside resources. Bodie, California, is actually located 13 miles east of US 395 between Lee Vining and Bridgeport. In the late 19 th century, Bodie was a thriving mining town in which as many as 10,000 people lived. Today, with the gold mining days of California are a distinct memory, there are almost 200abandoned wooden buildingsin a state of "arrested decay"to photograph and explore. Please clean up after your pet. In the early 1930s, there was interest in getting the town running again by utilizing electrical power to operate the stamp mill and a cyanide process to work the mill tailings. Please be at the base of the lighthouse 5 minutes prior to your scheduled start time. Plan for a full day (or two). The downloading or printing of any image or video without the written permission from KGS Media Holdings is strictly prohibited. Utterly unexpected. Definitely spend the extra $3 to get the walking tour guidebook. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. From Bridgeport, it's seven miles south on highway 395 to state route 270 (turn left) and another 13 miles to the park itself. Once you start in, it's marked as 32046.). the length of your visit would depend on your interest level. The museum and stamp mill are closed, but youll have the chance to see a side of Bodie most never do. Recreation.gov! Be sure to pack water and light snacks, as there are no servicesat the Park (restrooms are available). So much of old Bodie remains that it's easy to imagine the rest, with houses and businesses lining the streets. This is an alternative, fun, backroad route to Bodie State Historic Park that starts north of Bridgeport. Visiting the Wild West Ghost Town of Bodie, California Crowds are at their heaviest during this time so if you must come during summer, a weekday would be your best bet. Popular Trails El Paseo Road Total Miles 4.8 Bodie, California, is a ghost town near the border of Nevada and California. A small fee is charged and is used to preserve the town. When the park is snowbound in winter (approximately November through May), it is accessible only by snowmobiles, cross country skis, or snowshoes. Bodie, California: Driving Map For more information, please callBodie State Historic Park at (760)616-5040. Not all photography equipment is allowed. Contact U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management offices for nearby camping information. We watched the short film about the area. . Bodie State Historic Park, located only 48 miles north of Mammoth Lakes in the heart of Mono County, California, is undoubtedly one of the most legendary ghost towns in the Western U.S. Wear comfortable clothing, but bring layers. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Dogs are permitted in the park. Spend the extra $3 and purchase the booklet so you can do a self guided tour. However, because of the high elevation (8375 feet), it is accessible only by skis, snowshoes or snowmobiles during winter months. Bodie, California | Plan Your Trip to Bodie Adults: $8.00 per person (18+)Children: $5.00 per child (ages 4 to 17)Infant: Free (ages 0-3), Park Address: Highway 270, Bridgeport CA 93517, Mailing Address: P.O. Yes, you can take dogs. YesDogs allowed in park but not allowed in any historic buildings, including the Stamp Mill or in the Museum. There is a nominal entrance feeof $8 for adults, $5 for children ages 4 to17. On a daily basis miners would emerge from the mills and head for the bars and the red light district to spend their earnings. Souvenirs and Collecting Everything in Bodie is part of the historic scene and is fully protected. If youve never been to Bodie, youre likely wondering how to visit this spectacular place and see it for yourself. On October 30, 2022, talks and tours concluded and the museum and bookstore closed for the season. Bodie, CA Map & Directions - MapQuest If you're a photographer, bring plenty of media and plan to stay a long time. 100 Earn points Bridgeport, CA Save Share More Directions Nearby Bridgeport is an unincorporated community in Mariposa County, California. Bodie was founded by William S. Bodey, who discovered a gold mine nearby in 1859. Preserved in a state of "arrested decay", visitors to Bodie are able to explore the turn of the century remains of one of California's most lucrative mining dist. Yosemite Village to Bodie and back - Tripadvisor Bodie State Historic Park is a genuine California gold-mining ghost town. It is the remains of a gold mining community from the late 1800s. Newspapers reported that townspeople would ask in the mornings Have we a man for breakfast? Meaning Did anyone get killed last night?. Are you looking for a hotel in the heart of the Wild West? Generally considered a moderately challenging route. Once on the . 395. Dogs Dogs are permitted in the park but must be on a leash at all times. Most camera and video equipment use is permitted in the park. It walks through the most significant buildings and gives history on them. Ill conclude this article with some pictures of Bodie. People flocked to Bodie and transformed it from a town of a few dozen to a boomtown. Is there a paved road in and through the site? Bodie visitors will want to leave every nail, rock, and stick exactly as they see it. This article was originally published in 2021 and has recently been updated for accuracy pertaining to current information. Go east 10 miles to the end of the pavement and continue 3 miles on an unsurfaced road to Bodie. I enjoyed the school, hotel, jail and the bank the most. Bodie Island Lighthouse The National Park Service provides visitors the unique opportunity to climb the Bodie Island Lighthouse in the night time splendor of a full moon. Others take you around town to learn more about its history. Bodie Ghost Town OHV Trail. Bodie.com | Bodie, California is Bodie State Historic Park Bodie, California: Must-Read Tips for Visiting the Ghost Town From: 1 traveler 2 travelers 3 travelers 4 travelers 5 travelers 6 travelers. Head out on this 27.3-mile point-to-point trail near Bridgeport, California. Bodie Island Lighthouse Full Moon Tour, Bodie Island Lighthouse Be ready to walk! Attractions in Bodie, California | USA Today The Dirt: East Walker River | OFF-ROAD Nevada Per local legend, rangers often receive packages containing stolen items such as dolls, old cans and rocks accompanied by a letter from the apologetic sender. Peak season is Memorial Day through Labor Day. Alternatively, from Lee Vining, it's roughly 18 miles on 395 north to the turnoff (turn . Bodie, California Walking Tour; Bodie State Historic Park is both an authentic ghost town and a living museum of the Gold Rush days of the mid-1800s. Despite this, I would advise you to bring water and snacks with you to the park to have while you explore. Alternatively, having endured the washboard road to get there, you may wish to take your tie and absorb the town. Once you start in, it's marked as 32046.) It is one of the most, If its eccentricity youre looking for, youve probably already considered visiting San Francisco, a city where extravagance is the norm. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. In Lee Vining, youll find Lake View Lodge, El Mono Hotel, Yosemite Gateway Hotel and numerous campgrounds along Tioga Pass (during summer and fall). Access Description From Bridgeport, head north on Hwy.182 starting at Hwy. Among the saloons were numerous brothels and houses of ill repute, gambling halls and opium dens an entertainment outlet for everyone. You must show proof of payment if requested by park staff. Do you need to book in advance to visit Bodie State Historic Park? 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Just like when you go hiking; take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints. You can search in Mono County, where youll find a variety of accommodations near the ghost town. Location and Directions Bodie is located in the Basin Range of the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, about 13 miles East of Highway 395 in central California. Investigate weather conditions before you leave home and have the tools to travel safely (a four-wheel drive vehicle, chains, tow-out equipment, food, water, warm clothing, an emergency kit, a satellite messenger device, etc.). DronesIn the interest of public safety and the preservation of resources, Bodie SHP isclosed to unmanned aircraft systems(UAS), also known as drones, quad-copters and similar. Bodie Ghost Walks are offered three nights each summer - and sell out quickly! However, I highly encourage you to at least visit Lee Vining as well.