California is famous for its diverse geography, rich history, and, as it turns out, some truly head-scratching town names. Here are ten California towns whose names are so unusual, whimsical, or downright confusing that even your GPS might need a moment to process.
1. Zzyzx (San Bernardino County)
- Pronounced “Zye-zix,” this town’s name was invented to be the last word in the English language. Located at the end of Zzyzx Road off Interstate 15, its odd spelling and pronunciation stump both humans and navigation systems alike.
2. Rough And Ready (Nevada County)
- This Gold Rush-era town’s name sounds more like a warning or a dare than a place. It’s so unique that it’s often cited among the most bizarre town names in the country.
3. Angels Camp (Calaveras County)
- The name might make you think of celestial beings, but it’s actually named after shopkeeper Henry Angell, who set up a trading post here in 1848. Still, “Angels Camp” is an odd one for a mining town.
4. Eureka (Humboldt County)
- Meaning “I have found it!” in Greek, this exclamation is more commonly shouted than seen on a road sign. It’s the only city in California whose official seal includes the state motto.
5. Diablo (Contra Costa County)
- Spanish for “devil,” this town’s name might make your GPS question whether you’re heading to a scenic suburb or somewhere more sinister.
6. Shaver Lake (Fresno County)
- The name might conjure up images of grooming products, but it’s actually a picturesque mountain town. Still, it’s an odd one to hear from your navigation system.
7. Vacaville (Solano County)
- Translating to “Cow Town” in Spanish, Vacaville is a real place with a name that might make your GPS (and you) do a double-take.
8. Twain Harte (Tuolumne County)
- Named after authors Mark Twain and Bret Harte, this literary mashup is as quirky as it gets for a town name.
9. Bodie (Mono County)
- Now a famous ghost town, Bodie’s short, abrupt name and desolate vibe might have your GPS wondering if you’ve reached the end of the road—literally.
10. Calico (San Bernardino County)
- Once a booming silver mining town, Calico’s name is as colorful as its past. Today, it’s a well-preserved ghost town that sounds more like a cat breed than a destination.
Sources:
- https://roadtrippers.com/magazine/strange-town-names/
- https://www.nps.gov/pore/learn/historyculture/places-names.htm
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ghost_towns_in_California
- https://www.navcen.uscg.gov/guide-tool