Category: Destination4x4

Alamo Crossing Mohave County Ghost Town

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Alamo Crossing is a submerged ghost town hidden beneath the waters of Alamo Lake, Mohave County, Arizona.

Alamo Crossing, Mohave County Arizona
Alamo Crossing, Mohave County Arizona

The town is founded by Tom Rogers about 1899. The little hamlet served as a small mining community to transient prospectors with most of the population camping out. During its heyday, the town only consisted of a five-stamp mill, a few stores and a post office. The town’s population is never known to be significant.

In 1968, an earth filled damn is constructed along the Bill Williams River by the Army Corp of Engineers for flood control. The 283 foot tall damn caused the formation of Lake Alamo, which is about 80 feet deep. The remains of Alamo Crossing still lie in the waters of the lake. Scuba gear is required to explore the remains. The town site was believed to be one of the best preserved ghost towns in the county, prior to flooding.

In 2020, the area surrounding Alamo is revived for mining again, this time for placer gold prospecting.

Trail Map

Town Summary

NameAlamo Crossing
Also Known AsAlimo,
LocationAbout 60 miles northwest of Wickenberg on Bill Williams River, Mohave County, Arizona
Latitude, Longitude34.2605, -113.5827
Elevation1,237 ft (377 m)
GNIS25299
Post officeNovember 13, 1889 – December 15, 1900
March 30, 1911 – 1918 Alamo

References

Warren Baxter Earp

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Warren Baxter Earp ( March 9, 1855 – July 6, 1900 ), the youngest of the Earp brothers, was born into a family that would become synonymous with the Wild West and the lawlessness of frontier America. Though not as famous as his older brothers Wyatt, Virgil, and Morgan, Warren’s life was marked by the same tumultuous spirit and sense of loyalty that defined the Earp family.

Warren Baster Earp ( March 9, 1855 - July 6, 1900 )
Warren Baster Earp ( March 9, 1855 – July 6, 1900 )

Early Life

Warren Baxter Earp was born on March 9, 1855, in Pella, Iowa, to Nicholas Porter Earp and Virginia Ann Cooksey. As the youngest of the Earp brothers, Warren grew up in a household that was constantly on the move, eventually settling in Colton, California. Unlike his older brothers, Warren did not participate in the Civil War, as he was too young. He was, however, deeply influenced by his older siblings, particularly Wyatt and Virgil, who served as lawmen in the rough-and-tumble towns of the American West.

Tombstone and the Earp Vendetta Ride

Warren Earp first made his way to Tombstone, Arizona, in the early 1880s, joining his brothers in the bustling mining town. Although he was not directly involved in the famous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral on October 26, 1881, Warren’s presence in Tombstone placed him at the heart of the events that followed.

After the assassination of his brother Morgan in March 1882, Warren became an active participant in the Earp Vendetta Ride, a series of revenge killings led by Wyatt Earp. The Vendetta Ride was a direct response to the murder of Morgan and the perceived lack of justice from local authorities. During this period, Warren showed his loyalty to his family, joining his brothers in hunting down those they believed were responsible for Morgan’s death.

Later Life

After the events in Tombstone, Warren Earp led a relatively unsettled life, drifting across the West and working various jobs, including as a cowboy, stagecoach driver, and occasional lawman. Unlike his brothers, who eventually found some measure of stability, Warren never fully escaped the shadow of his family’s tumultuous past. His fiery temper and propensity for getting into conflicts often put him in dangerous situations.

By the late 1890s, Warren Earp had made his way to Willcox, Arizona, a small but lively cattle town that served as a hub for ranchers and cowboys in the region. Willcox, like many frontier towns, was a place where disputes were often settled with fists or firearms rather than words, and Warren, with his reputation and temperament, fit right into this rough environment.

The Fatal Encounter

On the evening of July 6, 1900, Warren Earp found himself at the Headquarter Saloon in Willcox. He had been drinking and, according to various accounts, was in a combative mood. Warren had a longstanding grudge against a local ranch hand named John Boyett, and that night, the simmering tensions between the two men came to a head.

Details of what transpired in the saloon are somewhat unclear, as different witnesses provided varying accounts of the events. However, it is generally agreed that Warren, who was known for his temper, began provoking Boyett, possibly over some perceived slight or lingering resentment. The confrontation escalated quickly, and Warren, who was unarmed at the time, reportedly taunted Boyett, daring him to draw his weapon.

Feeling threatened and perhaps fearing for his own life, John Boyett drew his revolver and shot Warren Earp, striking him in the chest. Warren collapsed to the floor and died shortly thereafter, his life ending in a manner not unlike the violent encounters that had defined much of his family’s history.

Legacy

Warren Baxter Earp was buried in the Willcox Cemetery, and while his grave is not as visited as those of his more famous brothers, it remains a part of the larger Earp legend. Warren’s life, though cut short, exemplifies the rough and often violent existence of men living on the frontier. His story is a reminder that the Earp family legend is not just one of heroism and law enforcement but also of the complexities and contradictions that defined the American West.

Earp Family Members

James Cooksey Earp ( June 28, 1841 - January 25, 1926 )

James Cooksey Earp

James Cooksey Earp ( June 28, 1841 - January 25, 1926 ) James Cooksey Earp ( June 28, 1841 - January 25, 1926 ) was…
Morgan Earp historical photo, 1881. Probably taken by C.S. Fly.

Morgan Seth Earp

Morgan Seth Earp, born on April 24, 1851, in Pella, Iowa, was a notable figure of the American Old West, primarily recognized for his association…
Virgil Earp 1843 -1905

Virgil Walter Earp

Virgil Walter Earp ( July 18, 1843 – October 19, 1905) was born in Lincoln County, Kentucky, was a prominent lawman and frontier figure known for his…
Warren Baster Earp ( March 9, 1855 - July 6, 1900 )

Warren Baxter Earp

Warren Baxter Earp ( March 9, 1855 - July 6, 1900 ), the youngest of the Earp brothers, was born into a family that would…
Wyatt Berry Stapp Earp - Aged 39

Wyatt Berry Stapp Earp

Wyatt Berry Stapp Earp (March 19, 1848 – January 13, 1929) was an American lawman and gambler who became a legendary figure of the Old…

Wilbur’s Grave

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Charles Wilbur’s Grave is a point of interest located in Holcomb Valley near the Holcomb Valley Campground, San Bernardino, California.

Charles Wilbur's Grave located in Holcomb Valley, San Bernardino, California
Charles Wilbur’s Grave located in Holcomb Valley, San Bernardino, California

In 1859, prospecting in Holcomb valley lead to the discovery of gold and one of the largest deposits in southern California. Charles Wilbur was a placer gold miner in Holcomb Valley in the who moved into the area in the 1880’s. Trusted and liked by his fellow miners, he was elected to establish boundaries so that the gold claims could be accurately established in the valley. Later, Wilbur was elected to the first tax assessor in San Bernardino County.

Prior to his death, he let it be known that he wanted to be buried next to his favorite location in the San Bernardino Mountains. Located across the road from Wilbur’s pond is the marker for Wilbur’s grave. Wilburs pond is a settling pond for gold miners and may have been the site of several placer claims. It should be noted that he is buried in the area and not at the specific location of the marker. The location is a well marked popular destination and local landmark to back-road explorers, hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners and geocachers alike.

Wilbur’s Grave Summary

NameWilbur’s Grave
LocationHolcomb Valley, San Bernardino, California
Latitude, Longitude34.3062, -116.9003

Point of Interest Map

Wilbur’s grave is located along the 3N07 just off the Holcomb Valley Road, 3N16. The Grave is located near Wilburs pond, which is seasonal.

References

Celia Ann Blaylock

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Celia Ann Blaylock
Celia Ann Blaylock

Early Life

Celia Ann Blaylock, known as “Mattie,” was born in January 1850 in Monroe Township, Johnson County, Iowa, to Henry Blaylock and Elizabeth “Betsy” Vance. The third of six children and second daughter, she grew up on a small farm near Fairfax, Iowa, where her strict, fundamentalist parents instilled a religious upbringing. Family accounts describe a disciplined household with little tolerance for frivolity, card playing, or alcohol. Mattie, likely skilled in sewing and domestic tasks, stood about five feet tall with a slight frame. Her childhood was marked by church attendance and community events like picnics and barn dances, but she yearned for adventure beyond the confines of farm life.

At around 16, between March and October 1868, Mattie and her younger sister Sarah ran away from home, rejecting the prospect of arranged marriages and a predictable life as housewives. Seeking freedom, they headed west, likely drawn by the allure of the frontier. By 1871, Mattie appeared in a photograph in Fort Scott, Kansas, marking her presence in the West. Court records indicate she began working as a prostitute in 1872 in Fort Scott, later moving to Dodge City, Kansas, where she adopted the alias “Mattie” to maintain anonymity, though she often used her childhood nickname “Celie” or “Sally” in legal documents.

Relationship with Wyatt Earp

Wyatt Berry Stapp Earp - Aged 39
Wyatt Berry Stapp Earp – Aged 39

Mattie likely met Wyatt Earp around 1873 in Dodge City, Kansas, where he was working as an assistant marshal under Marshal Lawrence Deger starting in May 1876. Earp, a widower after the death of his first wife, Urilla Sutherland, in 1870, was known for his roles as a lawman, gambler, and occasional participant in less reputable activities, including brothel management. Their relationship began after Earp’s time in Wichita, Kansas, and the end of his association with Sally Heckell, who had called herself Sally Earp. Mattie, working as a prostitute, became Earp’s romantic companion and common-law wife, a status recognized by their cohabitation without a formal marriage.

The couple’s early years together were transient. In 1876, Earp and Mattie, along with his brother Morgan, traveled to Deadwood, Dakota Territory, where Earp worked hauling firewood but found no mining opportunities. They returned to Dodge City in 1877, and by September 1879, Earp resigned from the police force. He and Mattie, joined by his brother Jim and Jim’s wife Bessie, traveled to Las Vegas, New Mexico Territory, where they reunited with Doc Holliday and Big Nose Kate. The group moved to Prescott, Arizona, and then to Pinal City, Arizona Territory, for two months in 1879, chasing the silver boom. On December 1, 1879, Wyatt, Mattie, and his brothers Virgil and James, along with their wives, arrived in Tombstone, Arizona, a burgeoning silver mining town.

In Tombstone, the 1880 U.S. Census listed Mattie as Wyatt’s wife, though no legal marriage record exists. They co-signed a mortgage as husband and wife, indicating a committed relationship. Mattie continued working as a prostitute, while Wyatt took on roles as a Wells Fargo shotgun guard and faro dealer at the Oriental Saloon. During this time, Mattie suffered from severe headaches and began using laudanum, a common opiate-based painkiller, which led to her addiction. Her health deteriorated, and tensions in their relationship grew as Wyatt’s attention shifted to Josephine “Sadie” Marcus, an aspiring actress who had recently ended a relationship with Sheriff Johnny Behan. By mid-1881, Wyatt was openly involved with Josephine, and public altercations between Mattie and Josephine became a scandal in Tombstone.

End of Relationship and Life After Wyatt

The exact end of Mattie and Wyatt’s relationship is unclear, but it unraveled after the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral on October 26, 1881, and the assassination of Morgan Earp on March 18, 1882. Following Morgan’s death, Wyatt sent Mattie, along with other Earp family members, to Colton, California, to escort Morgan’s body to the Earp family home. Mattie expected a telegram from Wyatt instructing her to rejoin him, but it never arrived. Instead, Wyatt left Arizona for New Mexico and Colorado in April 1882, pursuing a vendetta against the Cochise County Cowboys he believed responsible for his brother’s death. In late 1882, Wyatt arrived in San Francisco, where he began a lifelong relationship with Josephine Marcus.

Abandoned by Wyatt, Mattie left Colton and returned to Arizona, settling in Globe and later Pinal City, where the silver boom had collapsed. With few prospects, she resumed prostitution to support herself. Her laudanum addiction worsened, compounded by alcohol abuse. Family accounts suggest she may have suffered from abscessed teeth or possibly cancer by the late 1880s, further exacerbating her physical and emotional decline. On July 3, 1888, Mattie died in Pinal City, Arizona, at age 38. The coroner’s report, signed by Dr. Thomas H. Kennaird, listed her cause of death as “supposed suicide by opium poisoning,” likely from a lethal combination of laudanum and alcohol. Some historians speculate it may have been an accidental overdose due to her addiction, but a deathbed statement attributed to Mattie, where she reportedly said, “Wyatt Earp had ruined my life,” supports the suicide narrative.

Legacy and Historical Suppression

Mattie’s story was largely obscured until the 1950s, when researchers John Gilchriese and Frank Waters uncovered a coroner’s report for “Mattie Earp” and her deathbed statement. Josephine Marcus, Wyatt’s final common-law wife, worked diligently to suppress information about Mattie to protect their reputations. Josephine successfully pressured biographer Stuart Lake to omit Mattie from his 1931 book, Wyatt Earp: Frontier Marshal. Mattie’s grave in the Pinal Burial Ground near Superior, Arizona, remained unmarked until 2009, when preservation efforts by the Tonto National Forest and local groups added a marker to honor her.

Mattie Blaylock’s life reflects the harsh realities of the American frontier, where women like her often faced limited choices and societal stigma. Her relationship with Wyatt Earp, marked by companionship and eventual betrayal, ended in tragedy, overshadowed by his later fame and Josephine’s efforts to control his legacy. Today, her story is recognized as a poignant chapter in the history of the Old West.

Sources:

Bridalveil Creek Campground

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Yosemite National Park is one of the crown jewels of the National Parks system.
Yosemite National Park is one of the crown jewels of the National Parks system.

Bridalveil Creek Campground, situated along Glacier Point Road at 7,200 feet elevation in Yosemite National Park, is a seasonal, high-altitude campground offering 110 single-family sites for tents, RVs, and trailers up to 35 feet, two group sites, and three horse sites. Open approximately from early July to early September, it requires reservations for all sites through Recreation.gov, with no first-come, first-served options available in 2025 due to high demand. Nestled in a serene forest of red fir, lodgepole pine, and fragrant Jeffrey pine, near the gentle flow of Bridalveil Creek, the campground provides a tranquil escape from the crowds of Yosemite Valley. Its proximity to Glacier Point, just 8 miles away, and trails like McGurk Meadow and Sentinel Dome makes it ideal for adventurers seeking solitude and stunning vistas. However, the lack of amenities like showers and potable water (due to ongoing restroom renovations in 2025) and the high elevation require careful preparation. This review details the campground’s setting, amenities, accessibility, and overall experience, paired with a description of Glacier Point.

Description of Glacier Point

Glacier Point, located 8 miles from Bridalveil Creek Campground along Glacier Point Road, is one of Yosemite National Park’s most iconic viewpoints, perched at 7,214 feet elevation. Offering a jaw-dropping panorama of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra, it provides unobstructed views of Half Dome’s sheer granite face, the sweeping curves of Yosemite Falls, and distant peaks like Clouds Rest and the Clark Range. The point is named for the glaciers that carved the valley below, leaving behind polished granite and U-shaped canyons visible from this vantage. On clear days, the Sierra Nevada stretches across the horizon, with layers of ridges fading into the distance, and at sunset, the granite glows in hues of orange and pink, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

Accessible by a short, paved 0.25-mile trail from the parking lot, Glacier Point features an amphitheater for ranger-led talks, a historic stone geology hut, and the Glacier Point Snack Shack for light meals. The area is a hub for trails, including the Four Mile Trail (4.8 miles one-way to Yosemite Valley), the Panorama Trail (8.5 miles to the Mist Trail), and the easy Sentinel Dome Trail (2.2 miles roundtrip), offering 360-degree views. Wildlife, such as marmots, Steller’s jays, and occasional black bears, frequents the area, and the night sky, unmarred by light pollution, is ideal for stargazing. Glacier Point’s high elevation brings cooler temperatures (50–75°F in summer, dropping to 30–50°F at night) and occasional thunderstorms in July and August. The road to Glacier Point closes from November to May due to snow, limiting access to cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in winter. Its breathtaking vistas and serene ambiance make it a must-visit destination near Bridalveil Creek Campground.

Campground Details

Location and Accessibility

Bridalveil Creek Campground is located 8 miles from Glacier Point and 26 miles (45 minutes) from Yosemite Valley, accessible via Highway 41 to Wawona, then Glacier Point Road. From Fresno, take Highway 41 north for 65 miles to the park’s southern entrance, then follow Glacier Point Road for 17 miles to the campground entrance on the right. The paved road is narrow with tight curves, suitable for vehicles up to 35 feet, but larger RVs should proceed cautiously. The campground is 17 miles from Wawona and 32 miles from Tuolumne Meadows, making it a remote base for exploring the park’s southern and high-altitude areas.

The campground features paved roads and parking spurs, with two wheelchair-accessible sites (near restrooms, when operational) equipped with extended picnic tables. In 2025, ongoing restroom renovations mean only vault toilets are available, and potable water is not provided; campers must filter, boil, or treat water from Bridalveil Creek, which may dry up by late summer. “Bring at least a gallon of water per person per day,” advised a camper (The Dyrt, 2024). The uneven terrain and high elevation may challenge those with mobility issues. A seasonal shuttle from Wawona to Yosemite Valley operates, but most campers drive to valley attractions. No cell service is available, so bring a printed or screenshot reservation confirmation for check-in at the kiosk.

Amenities

Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and a bear-proof food storage locker (45”W x 33”D x 18”H). In 2025, only vault toilets are available due to restroom renovations, and potable water is not provided, requiring campers to bring water or filter from Bridalveil Creek. No showers, laundry, or electric/water/sewer hook-ups are available. The nearest amenities are in Wawona (17 miles), where a general store sells groceries, camping supplies, and firewood, and the Wawona Hotel offers dining. A free dump station is located at Upper Pines in Yosemite Valley (26 miles away). Trash and recycling collection are provided, with bear-proof dumpsters to minimize wildlife interactions.

Campsite Layout and Privacy

Bridalveil Creek Campground is organized into three loops (A, B, C) in a forested area of red fir, lodgepole pine, and Jeffrey pine, with Bridalveil Creek flowing nearby, offering a soothing ambiance. Many sites, especially in Loop A (e.g., sites 1–30), are near the creek, providing scenic views and access to shallow wading areas. “Site 12 was perfect—close to the creek with great shade,” noted a camper (CampsitePhotos.com, 2023). Sites are well-spaced compared to valley campgrounds, offering decent privacy due to tree cover and natural barriers, though some interior sites in Loop B feel closer together. Group sites accommodate up to 30 people, and horse sites include corrals for equestrian campers. The high-altitude setting and lack of crowds enhance the sense of seclusion.

RV and Tent Camping

The campground accommodates tents, RVs, and trailers up to 35 feet, with most sites limited to 30 feet due to tight turns and tree cover. All vehicles must stay on paved or cleared areas, and pop-outs or awnings may not fit at smaller sites. Two vehicles are allowed per site (trailers excluded), with overflow parking near the entrance. Generator use is permitted from 7–9 AM, 12–2 PM, and 5–7 PM. The three horse sites cater to equestrian campers, with trailheads like McGurk Meadow nearby. The forested setting and occasional wildlife, like deer or marmots, add to the rustic charm, but the high elevation requires acclimatization.

Reservation and Cost

Reservations are required from early July to early September, available up to five months in advance on Recreation.gov, opening on the 15th of each month at 7:00 AM PST. Single-family sites cost $30–$36 per night, group sites $50, and horse sites $40. Demand is high, with sites often booked within minutes. “Be online at 7 AM sharp or check cancellations daily,” advised a camper (Hipcamp, 2024). The campground closes from September to July due to snow and Glacier Point Road closures. A park entrance fee ($35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days) is separate from camping fees. Day-use reservations may be required to enter Yosemite from June 15 to August 15, 2025, between 6 AM and 2 PM.

Activities and Attractions

Bridalveil Creek Campground is a gateway to Glacier Point and nearby trails. The McGurk Meadow Trail (3.4 miles roundtrip) offers wildflower-filled meadows and views of Half Dome, while the Sentinel Dome Trail (2.2 miles roundtrip) provides 360-degree vistas. The Four Mile Trail (4.8 miles one-way) and Panorama Trail (8.5 miles) connect to Yosemite Valley, offering strenuous hikes with stunning scenery. Glacier Point, 8 miles away, is ideal for sunrise or sunset views and ranger-led programs, including stargazing. The South Fork Merced River in Wawona (17 miles) offers swimming and fishing, and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias (24 miles) features trails among ancient trees. Yosemite Valley, a 45-minute drive, provides access to trails like the Mist Trail, rafting on the Merced River (seasonal), and the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center.

Wildlife and Safety

The high-altitude area hosts wildlife like black bears, marmots, Steller’s jays, and occasional mountain lions. All food, toiletries, and scented items must be stored in bear-proof lockers, not vehicles or tents, to prevent bear encounters. “Bears visited nightly—lockers are non-negotiable,” warned a camper (Tripadvisor, 2024). Rangers enforce compliance with citations, and bear-proof dumpsters are provided. The 7,200-foot elevation may cause altitude issues, so hydrate and rest upon arrival. Weather ranges from warm days (50–75°F) to cold nights (30–50°F), with monsoon thunderstorms possible in July and August. “A thunderstorm hit hard—our tarp saved the day,” noted a camper (The Dyrt, 2024). Bring rain gear, warm layers, and a water filter, as creek water may be unreliable by late summer.

Campground Map

Camper Feedback

Positives

  • Scenery and Solitude: Campers love the serene, forested setting. “The creek and pines made it feel like true wilderness,” said a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2024). Proximity to Glacier Point is a major draw.
  • Trail Access: Nearby hikes are a highlight. “McGurk Meadow and Sentinel Dome were unforgettable,” noted a camper (Hipcamp, 2024).
  • Privacy: Sites are well-spaced compared to valley campgrounds. “More private than Upper Pines, with trees for separation,” shared a reviewer (CampsitePhotos.com, 2023).
  • Wildlife: Sightings of marmots and birds add charm. “Watching jays flit around camp was a treat,” said a camper (Tripadvisor, 2024).

Negatives

  • No Potable Water: The lack of drinking water in 2025 is a challenge. “Filtering creek water was a hassle,” complained a camper (The Dyrt, 2024).
  • Vault Toilets: Renovations limiting facilities to vault toilets deter some. “No flush toilets or showers was rough,” noted a reviewer (Hipcamp, 2024).
  • Reservations: Booking is highly competitive. “Sites sold out in seconds—plan ahead,” warned a camper (Tripadvisor, 2024).
  • Bear Activity: Frequent bear visits require vigilance. “Bears were active—use lockers every time,” advised a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2024).

Tips for Campers

  • Book Early: Reserve five months in advance on Recreation.gov at 7 AM PST. Check cancellations daily for last-minute spots.
  • Choose Creekside Sites: Book Loop A sites (e.g., 1–30) for creek proximity and shade. Verify RV/trailer fit on Recreation.gov.
  • Bring Water and Filters: Pack at least 1 gallon of water per person per day and a reliable water filter, as creek water may be low in August.
  • Bear Safety: Store all scented items in bear lockers and use a padlock for security. Never leave food unattended.
  • Weather Prep: Pack for cold nights and potential thunderstorms. A tarp or rainfly is essential for July–August.
  • Plan Glacier Point Visits: Drive to Glacier Point for sunrise or sunset to avoid crowds, and hike Sentinel Dome for panoramic views.

Overall Experience

Bridalveil Creek Campground offers a serene, high-altitude escape in Yosemite National Park, with its forested setting and proximity to Glacier Point’s iconic vistas making it a favorite for those seeking solitude. The campground’s creekside sites, trail access, and quieter atmosphere compared to Yosemite Valley are major draws, though the lack of potable water and showers in 2025, along with competitive reservations, require careful planning. “Camping here felt like stepping into Yosemite’s wild heart,” summed up a camper (The Dyrt, 2024). With early booking, proper water and bear safety preparations, and a high-clearance vehicle for Glacier Point Road, Bridalveil Creek Campground delivers an unforgettable retreat under Yosemite’s star-filled skies.

Sources: Recreation.gov, NPS.gov, The Dyrt, Tripadvisor, Hipcamp, CampsitePhotos.com, Yosemite.com, VisitYosemite.com