There are remnants of the California Gold Rush all over inland Northern California, but none as well preserved as Bodie State Historic Park. Established in the 1870s, Bodie was known for its violent, lawless reputation—the legend is that a murder happened on the streets of Bodie daily. The population rose to approximately 10,000 before mining died down and the town was eventually abandoned.

Today, the streets of Bodie are walkable, and a small part of the town survives in a state of arrested decay. There’s a church, cemetery, the big mill, a few saloons and other businesses, residences, a bunch of melty cars, and a cool-looking bank safe all still fully explorable. Even the interiors of the remaining buildings are as they once were, with their original contents and relics scattered around.

In the summertime, it’s insanely hot. In the wintertime, you need a snowmobile to access the area. Choose your ideal time to visit, and don’t forget to pack your dog. The park is pet friendly.