New Mexico is home to over 400 ghost towns, but we’ve rounded up the top 10 we’d recommend venturing to.

Cabezon | Sandoval County

Unlike most New Mexico ghost towns on our lists, Cabezon was started in the 1870’s for farming and raising livestock. It also served as a stage stop between Santa Fe and Fort Wingate. Cabezon stayed strong for over 70 years, until the Rio Puerco dried up. The post office for the town finally closed in 1949, marking the end of a steady era.

Today, much of Cabezon remains. However, it is difficult get a close glimpse because it is on private property. Visitors must admire the ghost town from a distance behind a fence. Do not enter Cabezon or ignore the “No Trespassing signs”.

Chloride | Sierra County

Chloride technically is not a ghost town. There are 11 residents of the town, but before that it was a ghost town. The town came to be in 1880, after Briton Harry Pye found silver ore, a secret that eventually got exposed. Soon after, the town boomed to multiple saloons, a restaurant, a pharmacy, two hotels, a school, and much more.

When the Silver Panic hit in 1893 followed by a large cut in the price of silver, Chloride’s boom eventually came to an end. Today, one can still see many of the town’s original structures. Harry Pye’s cabin is also available as a vacation rental should you wish to get the full Chloride experience. Of the many mines established near Chloride, St. Cloud is still in operation, however silver is no longer mined.

Elizabethtown | Colfax County

After the Civil War came to an end, Indians began to arrive at Fort Union in hopes of trading rocks for supplies. Captain William H. Moore of Fort Union had once had a close encounter with one of the Indians. After an Indian was wounded, he took care of him until he was on the mend. The Indian gave him rocks in exchange for his hospitality, which Captain Moore realized were rich in copper. The Indian lead Captain Moore and other soldiers to the copper, which would be the first of many claims in the area.

Word of the areas riches spread and soon, others came to find their fortune. The town was named after the captain’s daughter, Elizabeth Catherine Moore, and quickly boomed to include saloons, stores, and gambling houses. By 1870, Elizabethtown had rapidly grown to 7,000 residents. Now, only a few buildings remain, overlooking Moreno Valley.

Glenrio | Deaf Smith County

Glenrio almost didn’t make our list because it straddles both Texas and New Mexico, however it is one worth mentioning. Its Main Street is a Historic District and the town can be found along the infamous Route 66. The native Comanche and Kiowa Indians were the first to inhabit the area until the white settlers moved and caused a war from 1874-1876.

A station was built in 1906 as a place for local ranchers to ship their produce. The station itself was in Texas, however the town reached across the state line. By 1920, the town had grown to include a hotel, cafes, stores, and service stations. When U.S. Highway 66 was created in 1926 it even passed through Glenrio. When I-40 was completed in 1973, Route 66 was moved out of the town and thus began its decline. By 2000, only five people lived in Glenrio.

Gran Quivira

Gran Quivira’s origins extend back over 1000 years ago. The Pueblo people lived here in pit houses with wood roofs, that still can be seen today. Close to 2,000 people lived in Gran Quivira, and it served as a pinnacle trade center, and continued to serve as one even after the Spanish arrived. The village left for ruins is just one of three in the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument. The other two villages, Abo and Quarai, are located approximately 30 miles north of Gran Quivira.

By Nov. 1, 1909, Gran Quivira was designated as a national monument, a few years after the National Antiquities Act was passed. Today, visitors are able to see the ruins of the village, an abandoned school house, as well as the remnants of mission churches built by the Spanish in the 16th century.

Old Hachita

In the early 1870’s, prospectors made a grand discovery in the hills of the Little Hatchet Mountains. They found turquoise, lead, copper, and silver. The mining district became known as Eureka after this discovery as a place for miners to settle. In late 1880, the Southern Pacific Railroad extended to come within 45 minutes of Eureka for easier access to civilization. By 1882, the town was officially registered as Hachita and grew to a population of 300 residents after just a few years.

Hachita’s boom lasted just a few years as the ore played out. By 1890, the town was only home to 25 people. The post office stuck around for a few years longer, eventually shutting down in 1898l In 1902 when tracks were laid nine miles east of Hachita nine miles east of Hachita, the town became divided between “Old Hachita” and the new Hachita. Today Hachita is still home to around 30 or so people. One can still find crumbling adobe buildings in Old Hachita.

Pinos Altos

Pinos Altos (Spanish for ‘tall pines’) was once a bustling mining town back in its glory days. The town came to be in 1860 when three men discovered gold in Bear Creek. Word ran rampant and soon men flocked to the town in hopes of striking it rich. Additionally, the area was known for its ranching, and some of the largest ranches in the United States were found not far from town.

Today, Pinos Altos still leaves behind some of its most infamous structures. The town still has a main street; some of the structures have been restored with original memorabilia and artifacts over the years. It is also home to about 300 residents. Check out the town, learn about its rich history, or try your hand at gold panning when you check this New Mexico ghost town off your bucket list.

Santa Rita

Santa Rita was once a bustling mining town that started as just a fort with a church. Soon after more buildings were erect, and the Sante Fe Railroad eventually connected the mine to New Mexico. From here, the town began to soar and at one point, 6,000 people called Santa Rita Home.

Native Americans were very familiar with the copper in the area for some time before the Spanish caught on. Once they made the discovery, the Spanish enslaved the Native Americans and had them mine for the copper. By 1901, the town was forced to move several times when the Santa Rita mine was converted to an open pit. By the 1950’s the pit grew so large, that the town of Santa Rita got in the way. By 1967, the town was abandoned for good. Today only the large pit remains to be seen in this ghost town.

Shakespeare

Shakespeare went through a few names prior to 1879, at the start of the town’s second mining boom. The area was attractive for miners because of a small spring located in the arroyo just west of town. The town was a rebirth from a crooked past, and in 1879 Colonel William G. Boyle sought to change that by renaming the town Shakespeare. He started the Shakespeare Gold and Silver Mining and Milling Company and the town experienced its second boom.

When the new railroad town of Lordsburg sprung to life, the end of Shakespeare was near. Businesses began to move down to the clown to be closer to the rail station. Shakespeare eventually was declared a National Historic Site in 1970. Today, the town is privately owned and can be toured one weekend a month.

Steins

With the discovery of gold, silver, lead, and copper in what is known as Hidalgo County came numerous mining camps along the base of the Peloncillo Range. Nearby Steins was known as a railroad town, where the Southern Pacific Railroad ran through. By 1880, when the railway was complete through the area, the station became known to be located in the town of Steins. By 1905, Steins had a Post Office, schoolhouse, restaurant, and saloon. It is speculated that more than 1,000 people lived in Steins at its peak.

Steins met its demise at the end of World War II, when the Southern Pacific Railroad discontinued its stop to the town. The railway offered residents free transport to anywhere they desired, and most took advantage of the opportunity and escaped town. Not much remains of Steins, aside from a few adobe ruins and buildings restored from a fire in 1964. Steins may be gone but the railway still continues to run past the town even to this day.

Photo Credit: ABQ Museum Photoarchive, Larry Lamsa, Peer Lawther, John Hurd, Mark Goebel, George Self, myboogers, Wikipedia

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Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Los Angeles

Hollywood Forever Cemetery is unlike any cemetery. Not only is it one of Los Angeles oldest cemeteries, it is also the final resting place for more celebrities and Hollywood fixtures than anywhere else in the world. Because of this, this cemetery draws large crowds, with people traveling far distances just to pay their respects to these legendary icons. A few stars that now call Hollywood Forever Cemetery home include: Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, and Janet Gaynor. The cemetery is also conveniently located near the glitz and glam of Hollywood, so you can extend your trip and take your chances of seeing living celebrities as well.

El Campo Santo Cemetery, San Diego

You can find El Campo Santo Cemetery on the outskirts of Old Town in San Diego. It is one of the oldest cemeteries in the county and rumor has it is haunted. People claim to have experienced cold spots, seen ghosts, and have unexplainable paranormal occurrences happen here. The most popular ghosts said to haunt the El Campo Santo Cemetery are an Indian or Hispanic man dressed in 19th century period clothing. Others say cars parked on top of the graves on the street (yes, there are people buried below the pavement), have had their alarms go off without a person in sight. Whether El Campo Santo Cemetery is really haunted remains up for speculation, but a visit here could help you uncover the truth.

Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery, Los Angeles

If you’re going to go out in Los Angeles, you might as well do it in style. This is why some are willing to pay top dollar to be put to rest in the midst of Los Angeles concrete jungle, just under 10 miles from the Hollywood Walk of Fame. After all, nothing screams prestige than being buries by Marilyn Monroe. Behind the staggering buildings found on Wilshire Boulevard, you’ll find the Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery, the final resting place for some of the most famous stars in Hollywood. Being laid to rest among the rich and the famous comes with a hefty price tag. A gated family “estate” can cost you up to $2 million. While most of us can’t afford to be buried here, it’s still worth checking out one of Southern California’s priciest cemeteries.

Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, San Diego

The historic Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery is one of the most beautiful and scenic cemeteries in all of California, overlooking the San Diego Bay. It was also one of the most sought after military burial grounds, up until the last available space was claimed in 2014. Today, only spouses of those already buried in the cemetery can be buried here. Some of those that rest in peace here date back to the early years of California, including those who died in the battle of San Pasqual (now commemorated by the Mule Hill Trail). This cemetery also honors 62 soldiers who died in a boiler explosion aboard the USS Bennington in 1905.

Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles

Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills cemetery strived to be different from its inception. Its creator, Hubert Eaton, wrote, “Cemeteries of today are wrong because they depict an end, not a beginning”. With his vision, he added statues of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, and a Venetian art display to really “liven” up the place. The forward-thinking cemetery proved eclectic enough for Michael Jackson’s funeral to be held here and plenty of stars to be put to rest, including Liberace and Brittany Murphy. Aside from the star power found here, the rolling green hills and expansive views surrounding Forest Lawn are visually stunning.

Mission Santa Bárbara Cemetery

The Mission Santa Barbara was once home to three churches until the 1812 earthquake caused mass destruction. The new mission was subsequently rebuilt and finished in 1820. Nearby are the burial grounds for over 5,000 Chumash Native Americans and settlers. The wealthier family crypts line the outside of the trees. Just like other Southern California cemeteries on our list, Mission Santa Barbara Cemetery is also said to be haunted. People claim to have seen apparitions of hooded friars, a woman walking slowly through the lines of tombstones, and Indians and pioneers. If you’re looking for a potential scare, or simply to pay tribute to some of California’s early settlers, Mission Santa Barbara is the cemetery for you.

 Photo Credit: Taber Andrew Bain, Herb Neufeld, Julie Jordan Scott, Jason Hickey, Ayleen Gaspar, Kevin Stanchfield

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World’s Fair 1964

The World’s Fair was held at Flushing Meadows Park in the Borough of Queens. The doors opened on April 21, 1964 and ran two six-months seasons, coming to a close on October 21, 1965 due to financial failure. The grounds saw a few meager endeavors over the years and has been left to crumble ever since. Over 60 years after its initial glory, the remains of what was once the largest fair in the United States can still be seen. Most notable of these remains are the two staggering observation towers and the futuristic-designed New York Pavilion.

Seaview Hospital

There are few abandoned places more interesting than a desolate hospital. What once served as the largest tuberculosis sanatorium in the country is now a New York City landmark and U.S. Historic District. At the turn of the twentieth century, many were succumbing to tuberculosis and the need for hospitals was ever-growing. With lack of treatment many succumbed to the disease in this very hospital. The development of the antibiotic streptomycin brought breakthroughs in the treatment of tuberculosis beginning in 1943, and much of the research for this cure took place at Seaview. It is not 100% clear why the hospital shut down, but one thing is for certain: it has since been left for ruins.

Dead Horse Bay

Off the beaten path, another world away from the city, you’ll find Dead Horse Bay—one of the most polluted locations in all New York. Garbage blankets the shoreline, broken bottles lay shattered in pieces, and rusted metal juts from the sand. Beneath all this garbage lies relics of tough times in New York: a monument to the lives of hundreds of displaced New Yorkers, destroyed neighborhoods, and odes to shifts in New York history. In 1953 dump trucks piled remains of bulldozed neighborhoods and left it on Dead Horse Bay. The meager attempt to cover the garbage with topsoil failed miserably and has polluted the shores and waters ever since.

Renwick Hospital Roosevelt Island

At one point in time, smallpox was responsible for the death of millions of people across the world. With its rampant spread came the need for hospitals specifically for treating smallpox patients. In New York City, Blackwell’s Island (now known as Roosevelt Island) was the perfect destination for smallpox sufferers. They could be taken by ferry and isolated far enough away from the general population. By the 1950s, the Renwick Hospital was no longer needed, and was abandoned. Today the hospital ruins are a city landmark, hidden behind a fence on the southern tip of Roosevelt Island.

Arthur Kill Ship Graveyard

On the western coast of Staten Island, you’ll find a row of abandoned boats, rotting and wading away in the shallow waters. The Arthur Kill Ship Graveyard, is difficult to get to, plagued by bugs, but is one of the most unique abandoned places you’ll find on all of the east coast. For years, the Witte Marine Equipment Company, has allowed wrecked ships to lay to rest at the Arthur Kill Ship Graveyard. At one point in time, it used to be home to 400 vessels, but many have disappeared since.

Fort Tilden

Fort Tilden was once an army base dating as far back as 1917, near the coastal dunes and lightly trafficked beaches of the Rockaway Peninsula. Today it is part of the 26,000-acre Gateway National Recreation Area and visited solely for recreation purposes. Though there aren’t any tours or placards to commemorate this historic location, visitors can come take a look at the structures that once protected New York. Battery Harris West and Battery Harris East are the two most notable structures to see; both housed enough weapons to defend the state.

Bannerman’s Island

You don’t need to travel to Europe to see a castle. Simply take a tour of Pollepel Island, a mysterious plot of land on the Hudson River. Bannerman Castle sits proud and center on the island, but despite typical castles, this castle was not built as a home. Instead it was built by the Scottish to house their large supply of weapons. Bannerman’s castle has mostly been a restricted site for safety reasons, however will be open for walking tours beginning in May 2017. Access inside the building will still be off-limits and visitors will need to stay on NYS approved paths.

Ellis Island Hospital

Ellis Island remains a popular tourist destination. Each year, more than 4 million visitors come to see the historical landmark. What most people may not be aware of, is most of Ellis Island is off limits to the public. When millions of immigrants arrived at Ellis Island between 1892 and 1954, they needed to go through a health check. Those who were sick or disabled, were taken to the hospital on the south side of the island. The hospital’s doors have long been closed, but the buildings still stand. Today, Save Ellis Island offers a limited number of hard hat tours of the slowly decaying hospital complex.

Letchworth Village

There is perhaps no place that exudes more terror than an abandoned mental hospital. Letchworth Village was once an institution for the mentally and physically disabled in the early twentieth century and had a long run, closing in 1996. During its prime, patients would work on the 2,300 acres of land, in hopes of providing them with a better life than being confined to the four walls of a room. Despite its attempts, Letchworth was plagued with accusations of unethical patient experimentation and care. The grounds are still free to walk around, however access inside the buildings is prohibited.

Grossinger’s Catskill Resort Hotel

Grossinger’s Catskill Resort Hotel was the ideal weekend city escape, 1-200-acres of rarely seen country land just two hours from the city. The story of how the once highly prosperous resort came to be is quite extraordinary. A pair of Austrian immigrants started the resort by renting out a single room in their farmhouse. They grew the hotel enough to include a ski slope, swimming pool, golf course, and theatre. The resort met its demise when air travel became more accessible and country escapes were no longer on trend. Now all that remains are the ruins of the hotel and two large swimming pools, both decked in graffiti and destruction. And a few ghosts if you ask certain people.

Photo Credit: Jason Eppink, H.I.L.T., edwardhblake, Ian Cochrane, Joseph Kranak, Ethan Wolff, David MW, Forsaken Fotos

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You’ve seen the slasher movies and “documentaries” filmed in the middle of the woods, all leading to the impending death of an innocent individual. While these films are far-stretched, there are a number of forests around the world where a sprinkle of truth can be found in these tales. From silent whispers to actual paranormal sightings, these 10 most haunted forests in the world should never be hiked.

Wychwood Forest | England

Wychwood Forest is just about as witchy as it gets. England’s creepiest forest boasts tales of visitors feeling hands on their shoulders and hearing invisible horses gallop by. The most popular tale of Wychwood is that of the ghost of Amy Robsart, who confronted her husband in the woods while he was hunting and told him he would die within 10 days. He died 10 days later, confirming her premonition.

Wychwood Forest was once part of the royal hunting grounds in Oxfordshire, England. Now, it’s a place where few dare to visit with the tales of ghost sightings and paranormal hot spots.

Devil’s Tramping Ground, North Carolina

One would be near crazy to enter a forest where many claim the Devil tramples at night. If you travel deep enough into the woods near Harper’s Crossroads, you’ll find a 40-foot ring, devoid of any growth. Supposedly, this is where the Devil stakes his claim, walking in circles at night. The North Carolina State Department of Agriculture has investigated this hot spot to find out why nothing seems to grow here and are equally as stumped. Which begs the question, is it supernatural or science?

Isla de las Munecas, Mexico

A haven of trees with dolls hanging from branches should be enough to scare off even the bravest. Yet people depart from the Emarcadero Cuemanco ferry terminal every day to see the Isla de las Munecas for themselves. This small island near Mexico City is littered with dolls, most in bad condition. The only was home to one inhabitant, Don Julian Santana, who drowned in a canal in 2001. Before his death, he found the body of a girl in the same canal and began hanging dolls in her memory. Many believe these dolls are pure evil, others think they protect the island. Will you venture there for yourself to find out?

Aokigahara, Japan

A walk in Aokigahara (青木ヶ原) may be enough to drive someone to death. This haunted forest is located on the northwestern flank of Japan’s Mount Fiji and is the second most popular place to take one’s life. Death is so common here that police have placed signs that read “Your life is a precious gift from your parents” on the trees in hopes of preventing suicide. Due to the alarming number of deaths that take place in these woods, it comes as no surprise that an alarming amount of paranormal activity can be found here. Whether it’s the lush forest that draws people to make Aokigahara their final resting place or some demonic force, one can argue that this forest is one that shouldn’t be visited.

Eflin Forest, San Diego

My very own town is home to one of the most haunted forests in the world. Elfin Forest is a popular destination for hikers, yet the surrounding woods are plagued with ghost stories. The most-told story is that of the white witch, her husband and son brutally murdered long ago. She used to wander the woods in search of them, however, locals say she has since found the light and hasn’t been seen in years. Others claim the native Northern Diegueno Indians still haunt the woods. Others tell tales of seeing apparitions roaming freely, felt an invisible hand touch them, or felt negative energy. I can say after visiting Elfin Forest this isn’t a place I care to frequent alone, or too often.

Hoia-Baciu Woods, Romania

Hoia-Baciu Woods is touted as the most haunted forest in the entire world. It is so haunted, that many believe leads to the gateway to another terrifying dimension, one where people never return. The forest first established its frightening reputation after a shepherd and over two hundred sheep vanished into thin air. Local villagers declared the forest to be cursed. Since, those brave enough to enter the forest have reported feeling anxiety, nauseous, and felt as though they were being watched. Even the trees have twisted into unnatural shapes, perhaps as a warning that anything is possible here.

Freetown Fall River State Forest, Massachusetts

Freetown Fall River State Forest is actually a popular hiking destination—for those who aren’t afraid of its dark reputation. Not only have supernatural sightings happened here, but actual crimes have also taken place in depths of these woods. The body of an abducted 15-year-old girl was found tied to a tree in the woods in 1978. Locals also have claimed to have witnessed Satanic cult activity in the woods, which was later somewhat proven by the carcasses of cattle found in the woods. Three other murders took place in the woods in subsequent years. Beautiful as it may be, a walk in these woods may not be the safest.

Dark Entry Forest, Connecticut

Ask locals of Dudleytown, Connecticut and you’ll hear a vast array of stories about Dark Entry Forest. The forest sees minimal light, covered by the shade of a mountain which helps explain its name. While the name might scream “come here to get your fill of haunts”, the Dark Entry Forest Inc. tries to keep visitors out with “No trespassing signs” and requires a permit just to enter these woods. Dudleytown may be hard to find on a map, but that hasn’t stopped visitors from checking out this “cursed”, “damned” and “demonically possessed” town and its nearby woods. Those who have taken their chances and entered the woods, claim to feel overwhelming anxiety and terror. Dudleytown should probably stay off the map for good.

Black Forest, Colorado

When the Lees moved into their dream home in Black Forest, they weren’t deterred by the horror stories they’d heard. The former owner claimed the house was haunted, but this didn’t stop them from moving in. Within weeks the family experienced the terror themselves. They recorded strange shadows, apparitions, and strange lights over the years. Numerous psychics and film crews have in turn documented the paranormal activity here and can attest to its strangeness. Only 14,000 residents live in this forest-town, yet many are deathly afraid of it, for good reason.

Screaming Woods, Britain

There’s a good reason why many paranormal investigators flock to Pluckley. A small village of just over 1,000 people, Pluckley is also supposedly home to an additional 15 ghosts. The village’s nearby Screaming Woods is a paranormal hotspot, where screams of long dead men and women can be heard. Others claim to have seen misty figures of ghosts in person. The town has capitalized on this fear and even offers visitors a chance to stay overnight in Screaming Woods to see these ghostly spirits for yourself. The question is, would you dare take a walk in these woods?

Photo Credit: Betty Snake, Wikimedia, Kevin, elminium, Wikimedia, Guilhem Vellut, dkastner01, Leonardo Dasilva, Joan Sorolla, DVIDSHUB, Tim Sheerman-Chase

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Matildaville

Maltildaville foresaw so much potentially, yet ultimately that hope amounted to nothing more than ruins. The Patowmack Canal spanned between Georgetown and Cumberland, as a way to link the east coast to the western frontier by trade. Matildaville was established as a stage stop for boaters needing a good night’s sleep after a long journey. The southern hospitality didn’t last long and Matildaville became a ghost town after the Patowmack Canal couldn’t keep up with the high costs and extreme water levels. The company came to an end in 1828, and so too did Matildaville.

McMillan Sand Filtration Site

Located in northwest Washington D.C., the McMillan Sand Filtration Site features the remains of a twenty-five acre decommissioned water treatment facility. Here, sand used to filter water from the Potomac River by way of the Washington Aqueduct. The slow sand filter design became obsolete by the late 20th century. Soon after Taft became President, he designated the site as a park. The site closed once WWII began, with the army constructing a fence around the site to guard the city against any sabotage to its water. Today, a new project is expected to be completed by 2018. This project includes a slew of brand new buildings and the ruins will be no more.

Wash Woods

Wash Woods has no roads in and out, situated far from most of Virginia. Situated in southeast Virginia within False Cape State Park, Wash Woods is little more than ruins. The remnants of this old town can only be accessed by boat from the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge or via North Carolina’s northern Outer Banks. No one is quite sure how Wash Woods came to be, but some believe shipwrecked sailors are responsible for the small town centuries ago. At one time Wash Woods had a modest store and two churches. After the Hurricane of 1933, Wash Woods was nothing more than a washed up town.

Pocosin

What is the creepiest abandoned place in all of Virginia? I guarantee many would point to the structures found deep in the woods of Shenandoah National park, the Pocosin Mission. Pocosin Mission wasn’t your typical ghost town—there was no period of booming growth. This town had an eerie reason for existing, and some of that fear still can be felt today. In 1902 Episcopal priest Frederick W. Neve had the vision of building a mission for “troubled” people in need of spiritual guidance. The remote location was almost cruel and unusual punishment for those that lived there, and eventually the mission was driven out of the woods.

Abandoned Glavis Property in Falls Church

Just down Sleepy Hollow Road, past a church you’ll find a large abandoned home. It appears as though it would be the perfect set for a scary movie, decaying and desolate in the middle of the woods. While the home is off limits, few have ventured inside to explore only to find the interior is just as disturbing as the exterior. The house is said to have been owned by Margot Galvis, who recently passed at the age of 109. Due to its unstable structural support, it is not recommended to go into this house.

Virginia Renaissance Faire

It was a three-year affair, a hope to create a replica of a medieval square. There was a replica sailing ship, commemorative buildings, and a town center where “feuds” would ensue. Perfumers would also put on shows in hopes of getting a few laughs. The swamp land and muggy climate weren’t ideal for visitors and after just two years, the faire shut down and the property was abandoned. The Renaissance Faire might have moved on to a new location, but this location still stands, slowly rotting away with time.

Belle Isle Ruins

Aside from being one of the most beautiful state parks in all of Virginia, Belle Isle is also rich with history, conveniently left behind for exploration. The island first began as a Native American settlement site, and was even explored by the famous John Smith. The island since served several purposes: a nail factory in the early 1800s and a Confederate prison camp during the Civil War. Today, you can find the remains of an old oil and explosive materials storehouse as well as an abandoned hydroelectric plant on the south side of the island.

Lake Shawnee Amusement Park

OK I know this isn’t technically in Virginia. West Virginia isn’t too far of a drive to see the creepiest abandoned place on this list. It has been a little over 50 years since the Lake Shawnee Amusement Park shut down, but many believe the grounds are still haunted by visitors of the past. The park was built on top of the site of a Native American burial ground. It was also the scene of a brutal massacre of settlers. When the amusement park was in operation, there was a death of a little girl from the mechanical swings and another drowning death in the lake nearby. Paranormal investigators claim they have heard children laughing and swings moving with the absence of wind. The rides may be over at Lake Shawnee Amusement Park but the opportunity to visit isn’t, if you dare.

Photo Credit: Thundercheese, Virginia State Parks, The Last Cookie, Jack Parrott, Forsaken, Fotos, pcrean

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From Hawaii to South Africa, you can find beaches all over the world inhabited by wildlife. These creatures graciously share their homes with tourists while going about their everyday life. They’ll pose for pictures, acknowledge your presence, and happily accept your food (though we strongly advise against feeding them).

In California, we are no stranger to beaches. We grow up learning to surf, quickly become accustomed to salty skin and tangled hair, and live minutes from sand. Yet one thing that’s missing from our vast expanse of coastline are rare forms of wildlife. Whether you’re looking to add an adventure to your bucket list or planning your next trip, these are six of the best beaches to find wildlife.

Monkey Beach | Ko Phi Phi Don, Thailand

Take a short 30-minute boat ride Northwest of Phi Phi Island and you’ll find the hidden cove of Ao Ling (Monkey Bay). This small beach is home to a colony of monkeys who happily share their beach in hopes of getting food or water in return. Be warned that while these monkeys are adorable, they also aren’t afraid to go after what they want and can be hostile. From personal experience, your best bet is to admire them from afar and empty your pockets of anything food-related.

Boulders Beach | Cape Town, South Africa

There are numerous reasons to visit South Africa, but a beach filled with friendly penguins is just the icing on the cake. Protected by the Table Mountain National Park, this beach is clean, safe, and relatively uncrowded. The white sand beaches, warm ocean water, and adorable penguins attract nearly 60,000 visitors a year. To see the baby penguins first frolicking the beach, visit in January. Avoid coming during feeding season in September and October.

Pig Beach | Big Major Cay, Bahamas

It’s common knowledge you might find fish, crabs, and sharks in the ocean. Few people would suspect to swim alongside a pig. Pig beach in Big Major Cay is one of the only places in the world where you will find pigs treading in the ocean and walking along the beach. To get to this uninhabited beach, you’ll need to take a boat from Exuma to Big Major Cay. The pigs are rumored to have been dropped off by sailors who planned to come back and cook them. The sailors never returned, but the pigs survived on excess food dumped from passing ships.

Assateague Island | Maryland & Virginia

The wild horses found on Assateague Island have true grit. They’ve learned to adapt to harsh conditions: limited food, blistering temperatures, occasional storms, and mosquitos galore. Yet these feral animals have managed to make the small island their home for hundreds of years. Local folklore has it that the horses survived a Virginia shipwreck off the coast of Assateague and have called the island home ever since. Regardless of how they came to call the coast of Virginia and Maryland home, be wary. These horses have been known to kick and bite curious visitors who get too close.

Laniakea Beach | Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu’s North Shore is a haven for green sea turtles, swimming in and around the island’s reefs. At Laniakea Beach, or Turtle Beach, many of these turtles come out of the water and explore the sand. Volunteers of the “Show Turtles Aloha” considerately donate their time to monitor the beach and ensure turtles are being properly treated. You may even see red tape around resting turtles, a sign to tourists to let them be. To increase your odds of seeing the turtles of Lanaikea Beach, visit during the summer when the surf is quieter and therefor easier for the turtles to safely navigate.

Teluk Duyung | Malaysia

There are no shortage of monkeys in southeast Asia. Malaysia is no exception and has its own monkey beach located inside Penang National Park, the smallest national park in the world. Teluk Duyung, or monkey beach is just a short boat ride from Teluk Bahang fishing village. A tour boat operator will take you to the beach, where you will need to then hike through the jungle to reach the prize. Just like the monkeys at Monkey Beach in Thailand, the monkeys here are also tame and eager for food. Stay safe and be aware of these feisty little fellows.

Have you been to any other beaches with wildlife? Have any you think I should add to this list? Leave your suggestions in the comments below!

Photo Credit: Janine, foolfillment, Graeme Churchard, Laura, cdorobek, m01229

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There are two staging areas that will take you to the dam, but the one we will discuss here is the longer route that provides scenic views of both the reservoir and the dam itself.

The trailhead to reach Lake Hodges Dam picks up at the dirt parking lot across from Hernandez Hideaway, a local Mexican food restaurant and a good place to grab a drink after your hike. From the parking lot, follow the dirt trail. Almost immediately you’ll be greeted by impressive views of the reservoir, glistening beneath the sun.

Continue on the dirt trail taking in the majestic scenery surrounding you. On a cold winter day after a decent amount of rainfall, the trail was covered in green. Combined with the blue clear waters of the reservoir, it felt like we’d been transported to Northern California. Continue past the buoys and the SDG&E switchyard and Olivenhaim Pipeline pump house on your right.

Picnic area

Eventually the dirt trail will end, and you’ll begin to traverse along a paved road. This is when the dam begins to come into view and is a welcome reminder that you don’t have too much further to go before your each the prize. The pavement doesn’t last long, ending and becoming a fire road. To your left you’ll see an abandoned house and shack, seemingly out of place. I was curious how long the house had been abandoned and why, but had to continue along the road as both were fenced off to prevent trespassing.

Just before you approach the Del Dios Highway, you will notice a rusted car to your right, covered in graffiti. This served as a good stop for taking pictures, however I would not recommend getting in the car for safety purposes. Shortly after passing the car, you’ll walk along a dirt trail that follows Del Dios Highway.

You’ll reach another parking area, where one could park for a much shorter hike down to Lake Hodges Dam. Turn left at the end of the parking lot and follow the Del Dios Gorge Trail down to the Rattlesnake Overlook. At Rattlesnake Overlook you’ll find a pipe scope which allows for better views of the dam.

Continuing downhill from this point to the dam is considered trespassing. I advise against going any further as there are many areas near the bottom of the dam where you could get injured. If you do choose to explore the dam further, do so at your own risk.

Lake Hodges Dam Tips

Tip #1: The Lake Hodges Dam is a no trespassing zone. Violators may be fined. We did see one security guard making his way toward the dam on our way out, so be aware that they do regularly watch this area.

Tip #2: Be wary of rattlesnakes near the dam. In warm weather, they are prevalent here.

Tip #3: Exercise caution: the area surrounding the dam is dangerous. There are broken bottles, unstable rocks, and a chance of encountering some sketchy people. By the amount of graffiti in the area, it is clear finding trouble is not uncommon here.

Tip #4: Arrive early. Parking spaces are limited and taken early in the morning. Try to arrive for your hike before noon.

Tip #5: Share the trail. You’ll likely encounter quite a few mountain bikers along the way.

Tip #6: After your hike, stop by Hernandez Hideaway for some refreshments and tacos.

Driving Directions

From downtown San Diego, take CA-163N for 11.2 miles and merge onto I-15N. Keep left to stay on I-15N. Drive 8.8 miles and take exit 27 for Via Rancho Pkwy toward Felicita Park/San Diego Wild Animal Park. Turn left onto E Via Rancho Pkwy. Drive 3.3 miles and turn left onto Co Hwy S6/Del Dios Hwy. Drive 2.1 miles and turn left onto Rancho Drive. Park in the parking lot across from Hernandez Hideaway, near the junction of Lake and Rancho drives.

Difficulty: Easy

Total Distance: 5.5 miles

Trailhead Address: Across from 19320 Lake Dr, Escondido, CA 92029

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For the past six decades and beyond, the hills in North County San Diego continue to proudly show off their stunning display of color with a wide assortment of flowers blooming in spring. Each year, between March and May, visitors flock to The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch during this limited window of time to snap a photograph or two and simply admire the surrounding natural beauty.

The flowers grown at the fields are not to be confused with roses. They are Tecolote® Giant Ranunculus, a unique blossom native to Asia Minor. With more than 50 acres of rananculus to explore, it’s easy to spend a few hours walking around the expansive flower fields. For those on a time crunch, with a disability, or who don’t want to walk far, group tractor rides are available and will drop you off at the best flower viewing points.

If you opt out of the tractor ride, you will likely be walking along the dusty paths of the fields at some point. Because of this, I’d recommended wearing comfortable shoes and an outfit you don’t mind getting a little dirt on. The weather in spring is unpredictable at times, so I’d also recommend bringing a jacket. We walked the fields for several hours in the afternoon and the weather got chillier as the sun set. In addition to proper clothing, don’t forget your most important accessory of all: your camera. There are plenty of photo opportunities here, on the sides of your field and there are even a few paths carved out that allow you to get in the middle of the flowers.

For those that want to eat amid a burgeoning sea of flowers, I’d recommend packing a picnic lunch. There are several benches near the fields, and tables and chairs located near the front of the property. If you don’t want to pack food, there are also vending machines and food vendors on weekends.

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch History

We can attribute much of the surrounding views at The Flower Fields to Luther Gage, and early settler and grower in the Carlsbad area. He began his floral cultivation in the early 920’s, bringing Ranunculus seeds to the area and growing them in his fields. He joined efforts with Frank Frazee, who owned a small vegetable farm next to his field and started a business named “Luther Gage Giant Tecolote Ranunculus bulbs.

Frazee’s son Edwin continued to grow the family flower operation for years before deciding to retire in 1993. Paul Ecke Jr., a local flower farmer and friend of Edwin’s, convinced him to not fully retire and act as a consultant to help him grow his flower business. Paul wanted to find a way to tie agriculture with tourism, to keep the fields financially stable after a difficult few years. Thus, The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch came to fruition and have been a popular tourist destination since.

2017 Dates: March 1 through May 14

Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily

Best Time to Visit: Late-March to early April, depending on weather conditions

Admission Price: $14 for adults, $13 for seniors and $7 for children, ages three to 10. Kids age two and under are free.

Address: 5704 Paseo Del Norte Carlsbad, CA 92008

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One sunny San Diego afternoon I made the decision to see what the Desert View Tower was all about. Driving in the blazing heat amid the middle of summer may have not been the ideal time to visit the barren east county desert, but the sights at this unusual lesser-known gem made it worth it. After an hour and ten minute drive from downtown San Diego, I arrived at the Desert View Tower and Boulder Park.

The Desert View Tower and Boulder Park is situated in essentially the middle of nowhere, about 80 miles east of downtown San Diego. A somewhat scenic drive through the desert, and past the infamous $7.77 Acorn Casino prime rib dinner billboards, will take you to the town of Jacumba. Most likely, even if you are a San Diego resident, you haven’t heard of Jacumba, which comes as no surprise. This eclectic town is not known for much aside from the Carrizo Gorge Railway and the nearby nudist resort. Yet taking exit 77 and driving to the end of In-Ko-Pah Road will lead you to one of Jacumba’s greatest treasures.

Desert View Tower

In 1923, Bert Vaughn, owner of the town of Jacumba, built a stone lookout tower to attract visitors to the town. He had bought the whole town of Jacumba, with the thought that it would become a border crossing. This never came to fruition, and Vaughn made his fortune in other avenues. The Desert Tower never did become as visited as Vaughn might have hoped, however thousands of visitors still come to visit this eclectic stop each year. Over the years, the Tower has grown to include a gift shop on the bottom floor of the tower, and a museum-of-sorts on each of the floors leading up to the top of the tower.

Admission price to tour the top of the tower and boulder park are $6.50 for adults and $3.50 for children, at the time of this post. Upon entering the Desert View Tower, pay the clerk and take a quick tour of the unique trinkets sold in the gift shop. After exploring the bottom floor, make your way up the stairs. Each floor will have a number of different interesting artifacts ranging from old photos of the Desert View Tower to replicas of the tower to hand-woven blankets.

At the top of the tower, you can check out the sweeping views of the expansive Anza Borrego desert. For views stretching even further, insert a quarter into the telescope at the top of the tower to see all the way to the Salton Sea and Mexico.

Boulder Park

In addition to the Desert View Tower, another point of interest in this same area is Boulder Park, a collection of rocks that have been weathered by the wind into caves and pathways. This collection of rocks is anything but ordinary. Some of the rocks have been painted to resemble animals, humans, and creatures. W.T. Ratcliffe, the artist behind these unique rocks, sculpted a number of quartz granite boulders to reflect creatures popular during the Depression-era. He spent two years during the 1930s completing this masterpiece that is still enjoyed to this date.

Today both the Desert View Tower and boulder park are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Driving Directions

From downtown San Diego: Take Interstate 8 East toward El Centro for 75 miles. Take exit 77 for In-Ko-Pah Park Road. Turn left toward In-Ko-Pah Park Road. Turn right onto In-Ko_pah Park Road. Follow the road for 1.3 miles until you reach the entrance for the Desert View Tower & Boulder Park. Park in the dirt lot.

Address: Old Hig 80, In-Ko-Pah Park Rd, Jacumba Hot Springs, CA 91934

Phone: 619- 766-9139

Hours: 7 days a week EXCEPT Wednesdays, 8AM-5PM (call to confirm before visiting)

Restroom Facilities

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There is something truly fascinating about discovering a home that has been left for ruins in the middle of nowhere. Immediately stories start to circulate. In the case of the Steele Canyon abandoned homes, some say they were once a psych facility. Others say the homes burned down in a fire. Residents in the Steele Canyon Estates community will tell you that the homes were owned by an old man who died during their construction.

There isn’t much certainty around what exactly happened to these extravagant homes. From the stained glass to  the sun shades, one thing is certain: these homes were built for luxury. The other thing that is certain is these homes were built somewhere around 1992, according to a serial number found on a water heater installed in one of the homes. And the homes were still standing in 1994 according to historic imagery from Google Earth.

Now, the homes have been left for ruins. And worse than ruins. It looks as though a small tornado swept through their insides and gutted them completely to be more precise. The land, owned by the Agricultural Preserve, has since been disrespected with graffiti, broken glass, and beer bottles. Clearly, it has become a maven for illegal activity: yet another reason why you may want to stay away. However, when we explored, we were the only souls there.

The abandoned homes lie in the hills above an affluent area of Jamul, known as the Steele Canyon Estates and directly above the Steele Canyon Golf Course.

Steele Canyon Golf Course from trail

1 of 3 gates you’ll need to pass through

Abandoned chimney close to houses

To get to them, you need to park near the Steele Canyon Golf Course, and walk through the residential neighborhood to a gated entrance. The entrance clearly states “No Trespassing” so enter at your own risk. They sit atop McGinty Mountain, which is also home to abandoned mines and caves. In addition to the one main house and two guest houses, there is also a tennis court and pool.

The homes from a distance

Abandoned tennis court

For the sake of keeping this gem as preserved as it can be and to avoid anyone getting injured from exploring these unstable gems, I will not provide directions to this destination. Instead, you can follow in our footsteps and follow the embedded pictures to find your treasure.

Abandoned laundry machine

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