Quick Facts
- State
- Illinois
- County
- Alexander County
- Status
- Unknown Status
- Access
- Unknown Access
- Coordinates
- Not recorded
The map remembers Shasta long after the crowds moved on. The Shasta Costa (also known as the Chasta Costa, Shastacosta, Chastacosta, Shastao-Skoton, Shista-Kkhwusta or Shistakwasta) are a Native American tribe, one of Lower Rogue River Athabascan tribes from southwestern Orego
Shasta is the lone documented ghost town in Alexander County — for now.
The story of Shasta
Illinois ghost towns cluster around the old lead district and the coal fields that fed Chicago.
The Shasta Costa (also known as the Chasta Costa, Shastacosta, Chastacosta, Shastao-Skoton, Shista-Kkhwusta or Shistakwasta) are a Native American tribe, one of Lower Rogue River Athabascan tribes from southwestern Oregon, who originally lived on the Rogue River and its tributaries, or, more precisely, on the "Lower Illinois River and the Rogue River between present-day Agness and Foster Bar." They spoke Shasta Costa dialect of Tututni (also known as Lower Rogue River Athabaskan) language. They were classified as Rogue River Indians for the purposes of treaty negotiation.
What you'll find today
The on-the-ground condition of Shasta is unverified — it's listed here with unknown status. That could mean standing buildings, or an empty field. Go prepared for either, and consider sharing what you find so the record improves.
Nobody has confirmed the access situation, so treat any visit as reconnaissance: verify land ownership first, and be ready to admire from the road.
Getting there
Here's the honest truth: access to Shasta is unverified. We couldn't confirm whether the site sits on public land, private property, or something in between — so verify land ownership and local rules before visiting, and respect private property at all times.
Good to know
Ghost-town etiquette is simple: take only photographs. Removing artifacts is illegal on public lands and disrespectful everywhere else — and on federal land it can be a serious offense.
Shasta FAQs
Where is Shasta located?
What county is Shasta in?
What is the history of Shasta?
What remains at Shasta today?
Can you visit Shasta?
Sources: description based on Wikipedia (“Shasta Costa”), CC BY-SA.