Perched high in Mono County’s Bodie Hills, Bodie State Historic Park offers a haunting glimpse into California’s Gold Rush past. Stark eastern Sierra landscapes surround this remarkably preserved ghost town. It transports visitors back to its peak in the late 1800s. During this time, Bodie thrived with nearly 10,000 residents. They were working in gold mines and supporting businesses.
What Makes Bodie State Historic Park Unique
Bodie stands apart as one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the U.S. In a state of “arrested decay,” almost 200 original structures remain intact—from barns and saloons to homes and schools—with dusty interiors frozen in time. Raised to over 8,300 feet, its high-elevation setting adds rugged authenticity, while archaeological traces of Paiute and Mono Lake tribes overlay a rich multi-layered history.
Activities & Amenities
Self-Guided & Guided Tours
Explore town at your own pace along well-marked paths. Self-guided map and cemetery booklets are available near the parking lot and museum. From late May to October, free history talks and paid stamp mill tours are offered seasonally. Private guided tours and twilight walks can be scheduled in advance.
Interpretive Exhibits & Gift Shop
The visitor center and museum, located in the Miners Union Hall, display period artifacts, interactive exhibits, and a video presentation titled “Frozen in Time.” A small gift shop carries books, guidebooks, and Bodie Foundation merchandise.
Picnic Area, Restrooms & Accessibility Features
Vault restrooms and picnic tables are located near the parking lot. ADA parking, a wheelchair-accessible paved Cemetery Trail, and a ramp into the Museum ensure accessible visitation to key areas.
Photography & Historical Reenactments
With rustic wooden storefronts, mine machinery, and eerily preserved interiors, Bodie is a photographer’s dream. Night sky workshops and occasional living-history events such as Friends of Bodie Day are held during summer.
Hiking & Wildlife Viewing
Short walks lead to the cemetery, old ore processing sites, and the stamp mill area. Wildlife sightings include deer, golden eagles, and coyotes—often spotted along ridges or near abandoned buildings.
Camping, Fishing & Boating
No camping, fishing, or boating is allowed within park grounds. Nearby U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management lands provide primitive camping. The park is purely day-use with a focus on preservation.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Operating Seasons: Open daily; summer hours 9 a.m.–6 p.m., winter 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Road access via SR 270 may close with snow.
- Entrance Fees: Adults $8, children (4–17) $5, under 4 free. Pay via kiosk or envelope (summer credit accepted; winter cash only).
- Packing Essentials: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, hat, layers and gloves—Bodie’s weather is extreme, even in summer.
- Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes—cobblestones and uneven sidewalks can be tricky.
- Pets: Leashed dogs permitted outdoors only; cannot enter buildings or tours.
- Drone Policy: Drones are prohibited—flying craft disturb wildlife and fragile structures.
- Photography Rules: Cameras allowed; interior lighting or stands require special permits. Join night photography workshops for legal after-hours access.
- Safety: Stay on paths; avoid open mine shafts and unstable buildings.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Plan your visit in late spring or fall for cooler temperatures, smaller crowds, and clear skies showcasing Bodie’s high-desert landscape. For a magical moment, join a night photography workshop during new-moon phases—Bodie’s pristine star-scape is unforgettable. A hidden gem: the short stroll to the old cemetery at dusk offers a peaceful view across the valley and a poignant window into the lives that once called Bodie home.