Ominous bluffs. Decayed and abandoned buildings. Mysterious ghost sightings. It’s the stuff that goes into any creepy story.

This is only the beginning of what you can explore at Fort Humboldt State Historic Park (and if it sends chills up your spine, don’t say you weren’t warned!).

Located in Eureka, CA about an hour and 45 minutes south of Crescent City, the history of Fort Humboldt State Historic Park dates back to 1853.
Wayne Hsieh//Flickr
It was founded by the 4th U.S. Infantry as the central location in which to intervene during the tumultuous so-called Indian Wars between Gold Rush settlers and the Native American tribes who once thrived here.
Wayne Hsieh//Flickr
Fort Humboldt’s remote location was both a blessing and, it seems, a curse.
Wayne Hsieh//Flickr
Overlooking Humboldt Bay from its perch on a bluff provided a tactical advantage. But it also created a sense of isolation for the personnel stationed here.

At its peak, the fort encompassed 14 buildings, including Officer’s Quarters, barracks, a hospital, a blacksmith shop, a horse stable, and a bakery, just to name a few.

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One of the most famous military personalities to serve here was Captain Ulysses S. Grant.
Wayne Hsieh//Flickr
His story and that of his comrades are shared in historic signage and markers.
The fort property was abandoned by 1867.
Wayne Hsieh//Flickr
The hospital, which played a pivotal role in the care of the soldiers during the military conflict, is the only building that remains today.

It is believed by some that the ghosts of several of those who died here—either from battle wounds or disease—roam the deserted halls.
The reconstructed Surgeon’s Quarters give visitors a glimpse into what medical personnel life looked like back in the day.
Wayne Hsieh//Flickr

Fort Humboldt State Park is chock full of history and hauntings that will entice AND send chills down your spine!

Have you visited Fort Humboldt State Historic Park? If so, we’d love to hear about your experience there.

For more creepy-crawly attractions, Take A Haunted Road Trip To Visit Some Of The Spookiest Places In Northern California.

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Featured Addresses
Fort Humboldt | State Historic Park, 3431 Fort Ave, Eureka, CA 95503, USA