Camping is supposed to be a relaxing outdoor activity that brings us closer to nature, but you may not get that expected tranquil experience when you visit this one haunted campground in our state. Mount Madonna County Park is a stunning destination that completely immerses you in Northern California’s natural beauty, but it’s also known as one of the spookiest places in our region as well. Paranormal experiences and unexplained phenomena are typical here, so consider sleeping with one eye open when you spend the night! You never know what type of strange oddities you’ll come across during your time at this haunted campground in Northern California.

Hiding out near the town of Watsonville is the beautiful oasis known as Mount Madonna County Park. Although absolutely beautiful during the daytime, you'll find that this park and campground take on a different personality come nighttime.
Valkraider/TripAdvisor
That's because, according to local lore, Mount Madonna is one of the most haunted destinations in Northern California. There have been numerous reports of paranormal experiences in this park, and there's even a legitimate ghost story that can be associated to them.
Rick E/TripAdvisor
It's believed that the ghost that lurks the campground at night is that of Sarah Alice Miller, a 12-year-old girl who died in 1875. Sarah was the daughter of "cattle king" Henry Miller who was a notable figure in the area during that time.
Sally W/Google
Sarah died when she was thrown off her horse while riding near Gilroy. Her father, Henry, was absolutely crushed. For some time, it was believed that Henry buried Sarah here in the park. However, that was proved false when it was discovered that she was actually buried in Colma.
hezaa69/TripAdvisor

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Regardless, her spirit definitely left a mark on this strangely beautiful area. Many campers and park visitors have reported seeing a figure of a young girl in a white dress walking around the crumbling remnants of the old Miller home.
Neal Weinstein/Google
Some even say that Henry Miller himself haunts the ruins of the old Victorian mansion that used to stand here. After all, this was one of his favorite places on earth while he was living, so it only makes sense he would remain here after his death.
Neal Weinstein/Google
Despite the strange legends, Mount Madonna County Park remains a popular destination for outdoor recreation including hiking, horseback riding, and camping. This area is simply stunning, so it's easy to see why ghosts would want to hang around it!
Valkraider/TripAdvisor
Do you believe in the ghost sightings that have been reported at Mount Madonna? There's only one way to find out if there's any truth to them. Spend the night in this haunted campground and see what happens.
David C/TripAdvisor

What do you think? Would you spend the night at this haunted campground in our state? If you enjoy visiting all of our state’s creepiest spots, then be sure to take a look at this road trip to the most haunted places in Northern California.

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Haunted Northern California

Sara Dager | May 05, 2023

What are the most haunted places in Northern California? 

For a good fright, some of the most haunted places in Northern California are:

  • Alcatraz. The prison closed in 1963 but it is still open for tours, and with the many rumors of the spirits of former prisoners and guartds haunting the space, there is a good chance you may experience something supernatural.
  • The Black Diamond Mines are said to be haunted by a spirit known as the White Witch. She was the widow of the town's founder and died a quite unseemly death.
  • Placerville is an entire haunted town. There is a famed ghost that resides in the local saloon, as well as a haunted hotel and other spirited spots.

 

Are there any haunted hotels in Northern California? 

If you want to spend an evening with some spirits, book a night (or a few) at one of these haunted hotels in Northern California:

  • San Remo Hotel is said to have two ghosts, one that is a little girl who wanders the halls and another that is an older woman who resides in room 33.
  • Murphy's Hotel was born in 1856 and is home to a couple of ghosts that people say they can feel upon entering the hotel.
  • The Cary House in Placerville has a whole family of ghosts that are likely a holdover from the gold rush days.

 

Can I go to any abandoned places in Northern California? 

If you have a passion for ruins and spots being reclaimed by nature, you'll want to visit these abandoned places in Northern California:

  • Chinese Camp was a successful mining town for many years until most of its residents left it behind and the town's buildings grew into disrepair.
  • J's Amusement Park was officially closed down in 2003, but the attractions and structures have been left behind to be reclaimed by nature.
  • Punta Gorda Lighthouse is over 100 years old! It is no longer active and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in the 70s. It's tough to reach but well worth the visit.

 

 

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