Ghost Towns in Iowa

Beyond the famous names lies a deeper map: Iowa holds 51 documented ghost towns. The Midwest's ghost towns grew around lead and coal mining, river trade, and early railroads, then emptied as industry consolidated. Standouts include Big Spring, Bryantsburg, Buchanan, Buckhorn, Buxton, and dozens more.

The heaviest concentrations sit in Marion County, Buchanan County, Jackson County, where settlements rose — and fell — in quick succession. Most of these towns have not had their on-the-ground condition verified, so consider this directory a starting point for research rather than a final word. Access information is limited for many of these towns, so verify land ownership and local rules before visiting any site.

Use the status and access filters below to narrow the list, or search for a specific town by name.