Keeler, CA - An Almost Ghost Town
Keeler lies on the east side of the Sierra Nevadas in California, along Hwy 136, just east of the former Owens Lake and between Lone Pine, CA and Death Valley National Park. Once a thriving railroad and mining town, it was largely abandoned 50-60 years ago as the mines played out and Owens Lake became a dust bowl. Today it remains seemingly abandoned with a few friendly residents and a collection of empty, decaying buildings, including the old Sierra Talc Mill, the Keeler Market, train depot, railroad cars, houses, RVs and cars. It's a fascinating place to explore and photograph. These photos were made during three visits to Keeler in 2023 and 2024.