Yuma, Arizona

The Yuma Territorial Prison in Yuma, Arizona is one of the most haunted places in Arizona. Built in 1876, the prison held some of the most notorious criminals of the American Southwest, including murderers, thieves, and even a few innocent men. The prison closed in 1909, but the spirits of the prisoners and guards who died within its walls still linger to this day.

The prison was built to hold up to 250 prisoners, but at its peak, it held over 700. Conditions were terrible, with overcrowding and little sanitation. Many prisoners died from disease and violence. The prison’s execution chamber was also used frequently, with 36 men being hanged during the prison’s 33 years of operation.

One of the most haunted areas of the prison is the dark cell, a punishment cell where prisoners were locked in complete darkness for days at a time. Visitors have reported feeling a sense of dread and oppression when entering the cell, and some have even claimed to see ghostly figures within.

Another area of the prison that is said to be haunted is the guard tower. Visitors have reported seeing the ghost of a guard who died in a fall from the tower. His spirit is said to still watch over the prison, keeping an eye on the prisoners even in death.

The prison hospital is also said to be haunted, with visitors reporting strange noises and the feeling of being watched. Many prisoners died in the hospital, and it is believed that their spirits still linger there.

One of the most well-known ghost stories from the prison is that of “The Lady in Blue.” She is said to be the ghost of a woman who was wrongfully convicted and sent to the prison. She is often seen wandering the prison grounds, still searching for justice.

Visitors to the prison can take a guided tour and learn about its history and haunted past. The prison has been converted into a museum, and many of the original buildings and cells are still intact. The prison also offers a “ghost tour” where visitors can hear stories of the prison’s ghosts and even try to communicate with them.

The Yuma Territorial Prison is not only a historical site, but also one of the most haunted places in Arizona. The spirits of the prisoners and guards who suffered and died within its walls still linger, and visitors can experience the haunted history firsthand. The prison offers a unique and eerie experience, giving visitors a glimpse into the past and the possibility of encountering the spirits of the prisoners and guards who once called the prison home.

This prison is one of the most haunted places in Arizona and should be on everyone’s bucket list. Maybe you will encounter one of the ghostly spirits that still linger within its walls.

Read about other haunted locations in Arizona or see all the haunted locations I have visited.

For a more detailed history of Yuma Territorial Prison visit the prisons state park website or Visit Arizona’s website.