Bumble Bee is a ghost town located in Yavapai County, Arizona. Established in 1863 as a stagecoach stop and U.S. Cavalry outpost, it now serves as a historical site with a few remaining structures. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Yavapai County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 34°12′03″N, 112°09′11″W
Elevation: 2,579 feet (786 meters)
Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time (MST) (UTC-7)
Established: 1863
Disestablished: Not available
Comments: Bumble Bee was named after the nearby Bumble Bee Creek. The town’s name originated from early travelers who remarked that the indigenous people in the area were as “thick as bumblebees.” In 1879, a post office was established, marking its significance during that period. The town experienced a decline in population over the years, with 25 residents in 1920 and 20 in 1940. In the 1930s, efforts were made to revitalize Bumble Bee as a tourist attraction by reconstructing western-style buildings. However, these structures gradually decayed and were razed in 2012. Today, the area is commonly used by RV campers during the winter months.
Remains: Some reconstructed buildings from the 1930s existed until 2012, but most have been removed. The area is now primarily used by RV campers.
Current Status: Historical site with limited remains
Remarks: Bumble Bee’s history reflects the transient nature of many frontier towns in Arizona. Its attempts at revitalization as a tourist attraction highlight the challenges of preserving such sites. The town’s current use by RV campers indicates its continued, albeit limited, role in the region.
