Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is a ghost town rooted in the California Gold Rush era, situated along the Merced River in Mariposa County. Its existence was tied to mining activity that once drew prospectors and settlers to this stretch of central California.

Today the site is a historic remnant, and visitors should arrive with modest expectations. Physical remains are minimal, and the appeal lies largely in the sense of place — a quiet riverside setting that hints at a once-active community now largely reclaimed by the landscape.

Access and conditions in Mariposa County can vary by season, with winter months bringing the greatest challenges. Spring and fall tend to offer the most comfortable visiting conditions, while summer heat along the river corridor is worth factoring into plans.