Discover the Ghost Town of Bradwood, Oregon, a hidden gem steeped in history and mystery. Explore the Ghost Town of Bradwood, Oregon, today!

Bradwood, Oregon, may not be the first place that comes to mind, but this ghost town is a hidden gem filled with history and intrigue. Positioned along the banks of the Columbia River, it tells the story of dreams and ambitions that once thrived in this area. As we peel back the layers of Bradwood, we will uncover the tales that built this forgotten town and examine the remnants of its vibrant community.

Bradwood was established in the late 19th century, primarily as a logging town. The surrounding dense forests provided valuable timber resources, attracting settlers eager for opportunity. Yet, like many cities in the Pacific Northwest, Bradwood's rise and subsequent fall were tightly linked to the fate of the logging industry.

As we wander through what remains of this ghost town, we will learn about its fascinating history, the reasons behind its decline, and the natural beauty that now blankets its ruins.

The Rise of the Ghost Town of Bradwood, Oregon

Founded in 1883, Bradwood sprouted out of ambition and resourcefulness. The completion of the railroad turned it into a crucial hub for transporting timber to larger markets. In just over a decade, the town flourished. By the early 1900s, it had developed essential services like a school, a post office, and several businesses, including general stores and saloons that catered to a growing population.

For example, by 1905, a population of around 300 residents called Bradwood home, all benefiting from the bustling logging industry. Families settled in, and the town echoed with the sounds of daily life. Children played in the streets, and neighbors gathered to share their stories, a testament to a time when community spirit was alive and active.

Unfortunately, the wealth and vibrancy of Bradwood were not destined to last.

The now ghost town of Bradwood was the location of the first commercial sawmill in Oregon in 1843, but it did not become a town until July 15, 1930. The city was incorporated by the Bradley-Woodward Lumber Company, owned by Fred Bradley and Walter A. Woodard, and they built a logging railroad into the woods. Initially, everyone, including the owners, lived in box cars stationed in the woods. But eventually, a cook house, bunk house, company store, and up to 24 homes were built here.

The old town of Bradwood is currently on private property, so please get permission before visiting.

If you do get permission to come here, the old road will lead you to the ghost town, and it's a 0.4-mile hike one-way. I love the old bridge that crosses Hunt Creek, but I would not drive across it because the boards are loose and rotting in spots.

The hike is pretty flat and looks about the same for the whole hike until you get to the old town. This is where the old village used to sit. The buildings were mostly moved or deconstructed for their timber, and what little remained of the city was burned in 1984.

There is an old storage container here, and I suspect it used to be an office. There are still some chairs and other items inside.

Here are a couple of pictures of what it looks like inside.

At one time, the town was a potential site for a Liquified Natural Gas terminal, but repeated delays in the permitting process forced Northern Star Natural Gas to suspend the project in May 2010. The above photo does show a Natural Energy Sign. Protests & bankruptcies, however, derailed that plan, and today the site is unimproved with posted "No Trespassing" signs.

The Stories of the Past

Every ghost town has its legends, and Bradwood is no different. Stories about the struggles of early settlers and the challenges of logging life circulate among locals.

One particularly compelling tale tells of a logger who disappeared while working in the woods. Many believe that his spirit still roams the area, watching over the ghost town that was once his home. Stories like these add an element of charm and mystery to Bradwood, inviting visitors to connect with the lives that unfolded here.

In 1985, this was the site of Oregon's largest Marijuana smuggling ring. A ship full of drugs was docked here at an abandoned pier. Drug dealers from all over the country came to purchase the goods, and no one ever got caught.

Below is a picture of the old railroad tracks that used to haul lumber out of the area. The logging railroad that the Bradley-Woodard Co. used was not new, however. Construction of the original line dates as far back as 1903, when the Man and Montgomery Logging Co. began constructing a logging railroad out of Clifton from the Spokane, Portland & Seattle Railroad.

The Decline of a Community

As the 20th century unfolded, the logging industry faced serious challenges. The overharvesting of surrounding forests and the introduction of mechanized logging techniques resulted in a shrinking job market. By the 1930s, more than 50% of the residents had abandoned their homes in search of work elsewhere.

The bustling streets, once filled with life, fell silent. The final nail in the coffin was the closure of the post office in 1940, marking a significant end to the town's era. Today, the remains of Bradwood stand as a poignant reminder of a once-thriving community, with empty buildings and nature slowly reclaiming what was once theirs.

Nature's Reclamation

Time and nature go hand in hand in Bradwood. The ghost town stands as a striking example of nature reclaiming its territory. Vibrant green foliage and wildflowers peek through the ruins, creating a stunning contrast against the remnants of human activity.

As you walk through this once-bustling town, take a moment to appreciate the seamless blend of past and present. It's a poignant reminder of the way nature can flourish despite human abandonment.

The old railroad stop sign.

Other than the storage container, this was the only other building in the old ghost town.

The Legacy of Bradwood

Even though Bradwood is now a ghost town, its legacy endures. The stories of its residents and the history behind the logging industry are significant threads in Oregon's rich tapestry.

Reflecting on the past reveals vital lessons from towns like Bradwood. Their rise and decline remind us of the importance of sustainable practices and adapting to change in our communities.

So, heading back out and off to Clifton, Oregon. I didn't have much luck in Clifton. The people here didn't seem very friendly, and I couldn't get permission to go into any of the old buildings. To make matters worse, no one even came to the door to talk to me, and everyone seemed to have a Ring camera and decided to speak to me through this. I did get one picture from the road, and also the old railroad tracks that came from Bradwood. This is a picture of the old fishing cannery building.

From here, it was off to Brownsmead, Oregon. On my way there, I did find some old buildings that I loved and took a bunch of pictures. The first one was called a net shed and seems to be a club for people who are protecting the salmon population in the area.

This 1928 net shed, dubbed "the warehouse" by Brownsmead locals, sits at a wide spot on Gnat Creek.

Here is a picture from the old deck leading from the net shed out at Gnat Creek. This was a holding pond for one of the logging companies that worked the canyons of Brownsmead from 1890 through 1930.

Another abandoned building, I found.

Brownsmead Town Grange. This isn't a real ghost town, but they only have about 1,5oo people living there. The Grange plays host to the annual Corn Feed, the Rummage Sale, country dances, and whatever else the community requires. The hall is clean and, seemingly, waiting to be filled by the next lively event.

The old railroad once came through this town, and here is a picture of the old train station.

This building used to be the local store and is now a private residence.

Overall, it was a fun day out exploring and seeing some of the buildings that have stood the test of time. If you do decide to come here, plan your trip because cell service is nonexistent in a lot of these three locations. They are found about 30 miles east of Astoria, Oregon, on the Columbia River. Clifton and Bradwood are down the road at milepost 38 on Route 30 in Oregon. You will come to Bradwood first, and if you continue up the road, you will come to Clifton.

A Journey Through Time

Exploring the hidden secrets of this area in Oregon offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. With its rich history and captivating stories, the ghost town of Bradford invites visitors to connect with a world that once thrived.

As you wander the ruins and admire the natural beauty surrounding them, you can’t help but reflect on the lives once lived here. Bradwood stands as a powerful reminder of human aspiration, struggle, and resilience.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature admirer, or someone in search of adventure, Bradwood is a destination that rewards exploration. Its past is waiting to share its secrets with anyone willing to listen and uncover its mysteries.

Places to Stay:

Atomic Motel

Lloyd Hotel

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