Bordeaux WA

The Awesome Bordeaux Ghost Town

Tucked away in the dense woods of Thurston County, Bordeaux, Washington, is a ghost town that whispers of a bygone era when logging fueled the Pacific Northwest’s economy. Founded in the late 19th century as a logging camp by the Mason County Logging Company, Bordeaux was named after Thomas Bordeaux, a prominent lumber industry businessman. By the 1920s, the town grew to a population of about 400, boasting a hotel, post office, school, and sawmill, with the Black Hills & Northwestern Railroad shipping cedar and fir to markets as far as the East Coast. The town thrived until the 1940s when the surrounding forests were depleted, leading to the sawmill’s closure in 1941 and the post office’s shutdown in 1942. Today, Bordeaux’s moss-covered ruins—crumbling foundations, a smokestack, and a vault—are located on private property, inaccessible to the public, but the surrounding Capitol State Forest offers RVers a chance to explore the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

Three Unique Activities Near Bordeaux Ghost Town

1. Hiking in Capitol State Forest

While Bordeaux itself is off-limits due to its status as private property, the surrounding Capitol State Forest offers over 150 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, perfect for RVers looking to immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty. The Mima Falls Trail, a 6.5-mile loop just a few miles from Bordeaux, is a moderate hike through lush second-growth forest, leading to a picturesque waterfall. The trailhead is accessible via Capitol Forest roads off Bordeaux Road, with parking suitable for smaller RVs or tow vehicles. Hikers can enjoy towering Douglas firs, vibrant wildflowers, and occasional wildlife like deer and owls, with the trail’s gentle terrain suitable for all ages. RVers should check the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website for trail conditions, as muddy sections are common in spring, and bring a Discover Pass for parking. This hike offers a serene way to connect with the landscape that once sustained Bordeaux’s logging community.

2. Exploring the Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve

Just a short drive from Bordeaux, the Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve is a geological mystery and a fascinating stop for RVers. These enigmatic, grass-covered mounds, some up to six feet tall, stretch across 600 acres and have puzzled scientists for centuries, with theories ranging from glacial activity to Native American origins. A 0.5-mile interpretive trail, accessible from Littlerock Road, offers paved paths and informational signs explaining the mounds’ ecology and history. The area is a haven for birdwatching, with species like western meadowlarks, and spring brings vibrant wildflower displays. The parking lot accommodates smaller RVs, and a Discover Pass is required. The serene, open landscape provides a unique contrast to Bordeaux’s forested ruins, offering RVers a chance to explore a natural wonder while reflecting on the region’s past.

3. Historical Tour of Olympia’s Logging Heritage

While Bordeaux’s ruins are inaccessible, RVers can dive into the region’s logging history with a self-guided tour of Olympia, about 10 miles from Bordeaux, focusing on sites tied to the lumber industry. Visit the Olympia Timberland Library, which houses exhibits on Thurston County’s logging past, including photographs and artifacts from towns like Bordeaux. Pair this with a stop at the Washington State Capitol Campus, where interpretive signs detail the area’s economic history, including the role of logging in shaping Olympia. The tour can include a walk through the historic Swantown Slough area, once a hub for timber transport. Maps and guides are available at the Olympia Visitor Center on Capitol Way. RVers can park in downtown Olympia’s RV-friendly lots, and the tour offers a rich context for understanding Bordeaux’s rise and fall, blending urban exploration with historical discovery.

Three Restaurants in or Near Bordeaux Ghost Town

1. The Bread Peddler (Olympia, WA, ~10 miles from Bordeaux)

• Cuisine: Artisan bakery and French-inspired café fare
• Ambiance: Located in downtown Olympia, The Bread Peddler is a cozy, European-style café with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The interior features wooden tables, soft lighting, and a display of freshly baked breads and pastries, creating a welcoming vibe for RVers. The menu offers hearty sandwiches on house-made baguettes, quiches, and seasonal soups, with standout items like croissants and pain au chocolat. The outdoor patio is perfect for sunny days, and the café’s focus on local ingredients appeals to foodies. Easily accessible via Capitol Way off I-5, with nearby parking lots for RVs, it’s a delightful stop for a post-hike meal.

2. Ricardo’s Kitchen + Bar (Lacey, WA, ~12 miles from Bordeaux)

• Cuisine: Italian-American comfort food
• Ambiance: Just east of Olympia in Lacey, Ricardo’s Kitchen + Bar offers a modern, upscale ambiance with a rustic twist, featuring exposed brick, warm wood tones, and ambient lighting. The family-friendly restaurant serves wood-fired pizzas, homemade pastas, and local seafood dishes, with highlights like truffle mushroom ravioli and Dungeness crab linguine. The lively bar area offers craft cocktails and Washington wines, perfect for unwinding. The spacious parking lot accommodates RVs, accessible via Martin Way E off I-5, making it a convenient stop for RVers exploring the Bordeaux area. Reservations are recommended for dinner.

3. Well 80 Brewhouse (Olympia, WA, ~10 miles from Bordeaux)

• Cuisine: American pub fare with craft beer
• Ambiance: Well 80 Brewhouse, located in Olympia’s historic district, combines a laid-back pub vibe with industrial-chic decor, including exposed pipes and reclaimed wood. The pet-friendly outdoor patio overlooks Capitol Lake, creating a relaxed setting for RVers. The menu features elevated pub classics like smoked brisket sandwiches, fish tacos, and truffle fries, paired with house-brewed beers like their signature IPA. The brewhouse’s community feel and live music on weekends make it a local favorite. Accessible via 4th Ave E, with RV parking in nearby downtown lots, it’s a great spot to soak in Olympia’s vibrant culture after a day in the forest.

Three RV Parks Near Bordeaux Ghost Town

1. American Heritage Campground (Olympia, WA, ~8 miles from Bordeaux)

American Heritage Campground, located just south of Olympia, is a family-friendly RV park offering a peaceful retreat near Capitol State Forest. The campground features 72 sites with full hookups (30/50 amp, water, sewer), including pull-through options for larger RVs up to 60 feet. Amenities include WiFi, a laundry room, restrooms with hot showers, a playground, and a dog park, with a small store for RV essentials. Surrounded by evergreen forests, the campground offers easy access to Mima Mounds and Bordeaux-area trails via Littlerock Road. Activities include hiking, biking, and fishing in nearby lakes, with a community fire pit for evening gatherings. Open year-round, the campground is pet-friendly (leashed pets only) and requires reservations during peak summer months (360-943-8778). Its proximity to Olympia’s dining and attractions makes it an ideal base for RVers exploring the Bordeaux region.

2. Olympia Campground (Olympia, WA, ~12 miles from Bordeaux)

Olympia Campground, nestled in a wooded setting off Old Highway 99 SE, provides a serene escape with 97 RV sites, including full hookups (30/50 amp, water, sewer) and pull-throughs for rigs up to 45 feet. Amenities include free WiFi, a seasonal pool, clean restrooms, hot showers, laundry facilities, and a dump station (free for guests). The campground’s proximity to Capitol State Forest makes it perfect for accessing trails like Mima Falls, while its location near I-5 offers easy drives to Olympia’s cultural sites. A playground and picnic areas cater to families, and the pet-friendly policy (leashed pets only) welcomes furry companions. Open year-round, reservations are recommended (360-352-2551), especially in summer. The quiet, forested ambiance and modern facilities make this a top choice for RVers visiting the Bordeaux area.

3. Salmon Shore Campground (Shelton, WA, ~15 miles from Bordeaux)

Salmon Shore Campground, located along the scenic Hood Canal in Shelton, offers a waterfront experience about 15 miles from Bordeaux via US-101 N. The campground provides 50 RV sites with full hookups (30/50 amp, water, sewer), accommodating rigs up to 40 feet, with some pull-through options. Amenities include a private beach for clamming and oyster gathering, a boat launch, restrooms, showers, and a picnic area with fire pits. The campground is pet-friendly (leashed pets only) and offers WiFi and a small store for supplies. Activities include kayaking, fishing, and exploring nearby Capitol State Forest trails. Open from April to October, reservations are advised (360-426-2226) due to popularity with waterfront seekers. The serene canal views and proximity to Bordeaux’s historical region make it a unique RV destination.

Two RV Propane Fill-Up Stations Near Bordeaux Ghost Town

1. Chevron Station (Olympia, WA, ~10 miles from Bordeaux)

• Directions: From Bordeaux Road, head east toward Littlerock, then north on Littlerock Rd SW for 5 miles. Merge onto I-5 N, then take exit 104 onto US-101 N. Turn right onto Black Lake Blvd SW, then left onto Cooper Point Rd NW. The Chevron is at 3010 Harrison Ave NW, Olympia, WA 98502, on the right.
• Details: This Chevron station offers propane refills for RV tanks, handling both ASME and DOT cylinders. Open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., the station provides competitive pricing (call 360-943-8240 for current rates). The lot is RV-friendly, but larger rigs should navigate carefully due to adjacent fuel pumps. Staff are trained in safe propane handling, and the station sells RV camping supplies and snacks. Its location near I-5 makes it a convenient stop for RVers exploring Capitol State Forest or heading to Olympia attractions. Check for peak-hour traffic to avoid delays.

2. U-Haul Moving & Storage of Olympia (Olympia, WA, ~12 miles from Bordeaux)

• Directions: From Bordeaux Road, head east toward Littlerock, then north on Littlerock Rd SW for 5 miles. Merge onto I-5 N, take exit 105 toward Olympia, and turn right onto 14th Ave SE. Continue onto Capitol Way SE, then turn left onto Union Ave SE. The U-Haul is at 1313 Cooper Point Rd SW, Olympia, WA 98502, on the left.
• Details: U-Haul Moving & Storage of Olympia provides propane refills for RV tanks, open Monday–Saturday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The facility accommodates most RV sizes, with a dedicated propane filling area (call 360-753-5200 for pricing). RVers should confirm tank compatibility and bring adapters if needed. The station also offers RV storage and supplies, making it a practical stop. Its central location near downtown Olympia ensures easy access, but call ahead during peak seasons to confirm availability, especially for larger rigs.

Two Dump Stations Near Bordeaux Ghost Town

1. Olympia Campground Dump Station (Olympia, WA, ~12 miles from Bordeaux)

• Directions: From Bordeaux Road, head east toward Littlerock, then north on Littlerock Rd SW for 5 miles. Merge onto I-5 S, take exit 99 onto Old Hwy 99 SE, and follow signs to Olympia Campground at 1441 83rd Ave SW, Olympia, WA 98512.
• Details: The dump station at Olympia Campground is free for registered guests and available for a $10 fee for non-guests, open year-round during campground hours (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.). It supports gray and black water dumping, with potable water for rinsing nearby. RVers should bring their own hoses and follow signage to the station, which accommodates most RV sizes. The well-maintained facility is accessible via paved roads, but wet conditions may require caution. Call 360-352-2551 to confirm availability, especially in winter, when hours may vary.

2. Millersylvania State Park Dump Station (Tenino, WA, ~15 miles from Bordeaux)

• Directions: From Bordeaux Road, head east toward Littlerock, then south on Littlerock Rd SW for 4 miles. Turn left onto Tilley Rd SW, then right onto WA-121 S. Continue for 5 miles to Millersylvania State Park at 12245 Tilley Rd S, Olympia, WA 98512.
• Details: Millersylvania State Park offers a dump station for a $5 fee (free for registered campers), open year-round from 8:00 a.m. to dusk. The station supports gray and black water dumping, with a potable water spigot for rinsing. Suitable for most RV sizes, the station is accessible via paved park roads, but larger rigs should check for clearance. A Discover Pass is required for park entry ($10 daily or $30 annually). RVers must follow park waste disposal rules and bring their own hoses. Call 360-753-1519 for seasonal updates, as winter weather may affect access. The park’s proximity to trails and lakes adds to its appeal.

Books About Bordeaux’s History

1. Company Towns of the Pacific Northwest by Linda Carlson

• Summary: Published in 2003, Company Towns of the Pacific Northwest by Linda Carlson is a comprehensive exploration of the region’s logging and mining towns, with a dedicated section on Bordeaux, Washington. The book details Bordeaux’s rise in the late 19th century as a logging hub for the Mason County Logging Company, highlighting its peak population of 400 and amenities like a hotel, school, and post office. Carlson describes the Black Hills & Northwestern Railroad’s role in transporting timber and the town’s decline after the 1941 sawmill closure due to depleted forests. Through archival photos, oral histories, and company records, the book paints a vivid picture of daily life in Bordeaux, from loggers’ hardships to community events. It also contextualizes Bordeaux within the broader decline of Pacific Northwest company towns, offering RVers a deep dive into the region’s logging heritage and Bordeaux’s ghostly remnants.

2. Capitol Forest: The Forest That Came Back by Margaret Elley Felt

• Summary: Released in 1991, Capitol Forest: The Forest That Came Back by Margaret Elley Felt chronicles the history of Capitol State Forest, where Bordeaux’s ruins lie. The book explores the forest’s transformation from a heavily logged landscape to a regenerating ecosystem, with Bordeaux as a key example of a town lost to resource depletion. Felt details Bordeaux’s founding in 1892, its growth into a bustling community with a sawmill and railroad, and its abandonment by 1942 as logging ceased. The narrative includes stories of early settlers, the Cobain family’s later ownership of the property, and the forest’s ecological recovery, supported by archival images and maps. This book offers RVers a compelling look at how Bordeaux’s history intertwines with the forest’s resilience, providing context for exploring the surrounding trails and natural wonders.

Conclusion

Bordeaux, Washington, may be a ghost town hidden on private land, but its legacy as a once-thriving logging community lives on in the lush trails and rich history of Capitol State Forest. RVers can explore nearby gems like the Mima Falls Trail, the enigmatic Mima Mounds, and Olympia’s logging heritage, all while enjoying hearty meals at spots like The Bread Peddler or Well 80 Brewhouse. With RV-friendly campgrounds like American Heritage and Salmon Shore, plus convenient propane and dump stations, your adventure in this historic region is both practical and immersive. Deepen your understanding with books like Company Towns of the Pacific Northwest and Capitol Forest: The Forest That Came Back, and let Bordeaux’s story inspire your journey through Washington’s evergreen heartland. Pack your rig, embrace the forest’s quiet beauty, and discover the echoes of a lost town in the Pacific Northwest!