Prado, California, Riverside County was once a thriving community that has now become a ghost town, capturing the imagination of explorers and history enthusiasts alike. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Riverside County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 33.9081° N, 117.6364° W
Elevation: Approximately 604 feet (184 meters)
Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (PT)
Established: Early 1900s
Disestablished: 1941
Comments: Prado was originally established as a small agricultural community and later became a stop along the Southern Pacific Railroad. The town grew modestly, benefiting from its strategic location. However, the construction of the Prado Dam during World War II led to its residents’ displacement and the town’s eventual abandonment.
Remains: The area where Prado once stood is now primarily submerged or unrecognizable due to the dam’s construction and subsequent flooding. However, those who venture into the area can still discover a few remnants of the town’s past, such as foundations and scattered debris.
Current Status: Prado is a ghost town, with no current inhabitants. The land is now part of a flood control basin managed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers.
Remarks: Prado offers a poignant reminder of the transformations communities can undergo and the impact of infrastructure projects on small towns. Today, it serves as a historical curiosity for those interested in the stories of the past and the forces that drive change.
