For those who enjoy a spine-tingling adventure, San Angelo State Park in West Texas offers an intriguing destination steeped in history and mystery. Within the park lies the enigmatic Lower Ghost Camp Trail, leading visitors to a site that has sparked numerous ghostly tales. Built in 1995 and abandoned shortly after in 2002, this remote area features remnants of old picnic tables and an inexplicable boat ramp, despite the absence of water. The locale's eerie reputation was further solidified by paranormal investigator Paul Stewart, whose findings include shadowy apparitions, unexplained voices, and electronic voice phenomena linked to Native American ancestry. This ancient land, inhabited for nearly 18,000 years, was once home to the Jumano tribe, adding layers of historical significance to its haunting allure.
The Lower Ghost Camp resides in the northern section of San Angelo State Park, reachable through a short hike from River Bend campsite. Established in the mid-1990s, the camp fell into disuse within a decade, leaving behind concrete structures and wooden awnings now overtaken by desert vegetation. A peculiar feature is the boat ramp, seemingly out of place amidst the arid landscape dominated by cacti. According to reports, the area gained notoriety around 2015 when local paranormal enthusiasts documented unusual occurrences. These included sightings of dark figures, auditory anomalies such as Native American voices, and other mysterious sounds captured electronically.
This desolate expanse holds deep roots in Native American culture, having been occupied for millennia by tribes like the Jumano. Their enduring presence adds a spiritual dimension to the site’s reputed hauntings. For those eager to explore, the Lower Ghost Camp Trail is marked on the park map near the north boundary. Visitors must obtain access codes from the South Shore Gatehouse due to locked gates elsewhere. Hiking conditions demand caution; travelers should bring ample hydration, protective clothing, and insect repellent while navigating the rugged terrain dotted with prickly plants and occasional longhorn cattle.
San Angelo State Park remains accessible year-round, charging modest fees for adult entry. Camping options abound, ranging from basic tent sites with amenities to rustic log cabins. Travelers flying into nearby Austin-Bergstrom International Airport can conveniently reach the park via road trips. Beyond the ghost trail, adventurous souls might consider extending their stay in Austin to partake in its renowned Haunted Austin Walking Tour, offering chilling insights into urban legends. Whether seeking thrills or simply appreciating nature's beauty, Lower Ghost Camp beckons explorers ready to confront its spectral mysteries.