Uncover Oatman, Arizona: A Gold Mine of RV Adventures and Hidden Gems
Hey RV enthusiasts, Dave Stanley here! Have you ever dreamed of stumbling upon a town that feels like it’s been plucked straight out of an old Western novel? Buckle up, because Oatman, Arizona, is just that—a hidden gem where history, quirky charm, and unforgettable encounters come together. This isn’t your usual RV pit stop; Oatman promises a unique blend of nostalgia and adventure that will leave you eagerly planning your next visit.
The Ghost Town That Keeps on Thriving
Oatman may be tiny, with a population of just 97, but it’s big on history and charm. Imagine a century ago, when this was a bustling gold mining hub teeming with thousands of hopeful miners. Fast forward to today, and Oatman has transformed into a living museum, offering visitors a fascinating mix of historic buildings and colorful characters.
I had the pleasure of meeting Chris Crawford, a local legend whose family history is deeply rooted in Oatman. Chris owns several historic buildings, including an old commercial hub that once housed a drug company, a bank, and even a doctor’s office. Walking into this building feels like stepping back in time, giving you a vivid glimpse into the bustling life of the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Experience the Old West Like Never Before
One of the most intriguing parts of Oatman is Chris’s soap-making venture, a creative project born from the COVID pandemic. Chris has crafted a line of soaps that blend local history with modern artistry. Each bar tells a story of Oatman’s past, making her soap shop a must-visit in itself.
Take the "miners or flakes" soap, for example. This unique creation features burro milk, a nod to the burros that were crucial to Oatman’s gold mining days. These burros, essential for transporting gold, lend their milk to Chris’s soap for its creamy texture and natural proteins. It’s a beautiful tribute to these hardworking animals.
Another standout is the "confiscated carrot and burro milk" soap. Today, the great-grand-hinnies of those burros who transported supplies in the heyday, still roam free in the streets of Oatman. Visitors frequently feed carrots to these burros, leading to an overload of sugar. Chris cleverly trades the carrots for hay pellets and dehydrates the carrots into powder. This natural sugar not only enhances the soap’s lather but also keeps it chemical-free.
Chris’s soaps are more than just cleaning products—they’re works of art with rich histories. Be sure to stop by if you ever find yourself in Oatman!
A Walk Through History
Our exploration continued with a tour of the old bank building, a historical gem meticulously restored by Chris. Originally built in 1916, this bank features a vault dating back to 1923. Chris shared intriguing stories of attempted bank robberies, including a dramatic break-in from the 1920s. The patched-up vault ceiling is a tangible reminder of the building’s storied past.
The bank also has a fascinating Prohibition-era connection. Oatman was known for its "health club," a clever euphemism for a speakeasy during Prohibition. To celebrate this rebellious chapter, Chris has created a "prohibition line" of soaps made with real beer, rum, and whiskey. These playful soaps offer a nod to Oatman’s role in the speakeasy scene and add a touch of history to your daily routine.
Preserving the Past
Chris’s dedication to preserving Oatman’s heritage extends well beyond her shop. She’s involved in restoring other historic buildings in the area, including an old schoolhouse that served as a quarantine hospital during the Spanish Flu pandemic and later as a Hollywood movie set for "How the West Was Won." Her meticulous restoration efforts aim to retain the historical integrity of these structures while making them accessible for future generations.
One of Chris’s notable projects is the restoration of the old schoolhouse. Built in 1900, this schoolhouse was once a key community hub before being repurposed for various uses. Chris’s work to restore and preserve this building underscores her commitment to maintaining Oatman’s rich history.
The Legacy of Oatman’s Burros
No visit to Oatman is complete without encountering its famous wild burros. These charming creatures are descendants of the burros released during World War II when mining operations ceased. They’ve become an integral part of Oatman’s charm, roaming freely and adding a whimsical touch to the town’s rugged landscape. Interacting with them is a memorable experience that highlights the town’s unique character.
One of the most delightful surprises during my visit was meeting these iconic burros. I had the chance to feed them hay pellets, and their friendly nudges and curious eyes made for an unforgettable experience. These burros add a whimsical element to Oatman, making them a must-see for any visitor.
Explore Oatman on Route 66
Oatman is a must-visit destination for any RV traveler exploring Route 66. With its blend of mining history, unique local businesses, and the enduring legacy of the burros, Oatman offers a distinctive and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic buildings, indulging in handcrafted soap, or simply soaking up the town’s unique atmosphere, Oatman has something for everyone.
As you plan your next RV adventure along Route 66, make sure to include Oatman in your itinerary. It’s not just a pit stop; it’s a journey through history and a chance to experience the Old West in a way that’s both entertaining and educational. Until next time, happy trails, and see you on the road!
For more unique RV destinations and hidden gems, be sure to download the Curb and Turf app. And if you own property and want to share it with fellow travelers, consider becoming a host on our platform. Subscribe to RVCast so you never miss an adventure. Safe travels, and see you at the next stop!
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