Exploring the Dinosaur Mini Golf Ruins: A Forgotten Prehistoric Playground in Apple Valley, California
Urban explorers with a fascination for forgotten roadside attractions will find a haunting scene at the Dinosaur Mini Golf Ruins in Apple Valley, California. Once a lively spot teeming with prehistoric-themed fun, this abandoned course now sits under the desert sun, its oversized dinosaur statues slowly succumbing to the elements.
For a preview of the eerie remains, take a moment to view the below 360-degree panoramic photographs on Google Maps Street View. These interactive images capture the faded wonder of the dinosaurs and dilapidated fairways, offering a glimpse into the past of this deserted destination.
Image by: Andrew Olvera
In the arid expanse of Apple Valley, California, lies a relic of ambition and imagination—the Dinosaur Mini Golf Ruins. This forsaken site, adorned with decaying concrete dinosaurs, offers urban explorers a glimpse into a dream that never fully materialized. For those passionate about urban exploring in California, the ruins stand as a testament to creativity, determination, and the relentless passage of time.
The Visionary Behind the Dinosaurs
In the early 1970s, Lonnie Coffman, a resident of Apple Valley, embarked on an ambitious project to construct a dinosaur-themed mini golf course. His vision was not merely a commercial venture but a whimsical playground where children could play for free. Coffman’s dedication to this altruistic endeavor was evident as he invested his personal resources and over a decade of labor into bringing this prehistoric wonderland to life.
Construction and Design
Coffman collaborated with Air Force serviceman Gregory L. Wicker to bring his vision to life. Together, they crafted over 30 dinosaur sculptures using chicken wire, steel rods, and concrete. These towering figures, some reaching 15 feet in height, were meticulously designed to captivate the imagination of visitors. The park was intended to span nearly four acres, featuring a variety of dinosaur species set amidst the desert landscape.
The Dream Unravels
Despite Coffman’s unwavering commitment, the project faced insurmountable financial challenges. By 1982, after more than a decade of construction, Coffman’s funds were depleted, and the dream of completing the dinosaur-themed mini golf course was abandoned. The site was left unfinished, with the skeletal remains of the concrete dinosaurs standing as silent witnesses to the unfulfilled vision.
The Ruins Today
Decades of exposure to the harsh desert elements have taken their toll on the Dinosaur Mini Golf Ruins. Many of the sculptures have deteriorated significantly, with some losing limbs or collapsing entirely. The hollow interiors of the dinosaurs have become habitats for local wildlife, including snakes, wasps, bees, and rodents. The area is also surrounded by barbed wire, adding to the site’s desolate and eerie atmosphere.
A Haven for Urban Explorers
For enthusiasts of urban exploring in California, the Dinosaur Mini Golf Ruins offer a unique and intriguing destination. The juxtaposition of man-made structures against the encroaching forces of nature provides a compelling narrative of decay and resilience. Explorers are drawn to the site to document its current state, reflect on its history, and ponder the stories behind its creation and abandonment.
Historical Significance
While the Dinosaur Mini Golf Ruins may not hold significant historical importance in the traditional sense, they serve as a poignant reminder of individual creativity and the ephemeral nature of human endeavors. Coffman’s project reflects a period in the 1970s when roadside attractions and themed parks were burgeoning across America, driven by personal passion and a desire to create communal spaces for entertainment.
Preservation and Access
The ruins are located on private property, and potential visitors should exercise caution and respect for the site and its surroundings. The deteriorating structures pose safety hazards, and the presence of wildlife further necessitates careful exploration. It’s essential to seek permission before visiting and to adhere to the principles of “Leave No Trace” to preserve the site’s condition for future explorers.
Conclusion
The Dinosaur Mini Golf Ruins in Apple Valley stand as a testament to one man’s dream and the relentless passage of time. For urban explorers and enthusiasts of abandoned places in California, the site offers a unique glimpse into a bygone era of whimsical ambition. As with all urban exploration endeavors, it’s crucial to approach with respect, caution, and a deep appreciation for the stories encapsulated within these decaying structures.
If you liked this blog post, you might be interested in the Eagle Lake & West Branch Locomotives in Maine, the abandoned Relais de l’Infante hotel in France, or the Caroline’s Restaurant in North Florida.
A 360-degree panoramic photograph showing a concrete dinosaur statue that is decaying at the abandoned Dinosaur Mini Golf Ruins in Apple Valley, California. Photograph by: Andrew Olvera
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Do you have 360-degree panoramic images captured in an abandoned location? Send your images to Abandonedin360@gmail.com. If you choose to go out and do some urban exploring in your town, here are some safety tips before you head out on your Urbex adventure. If you want to start shooting 360-degree panoramic images, you might want to look onto one-click 360-degree action cameras.
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