Ghost Towns Resurfacing as Lakes Recede Amid Worsening Western Drought

An old building foundation lies exposed in the former town of Old Kernville, Calif. Every two years, the abandoned ghost town resurfaces as the water line of manmade Lake Isabella recedes. Courtesy of Chuck Barbee

Every two or three years, Lake Isabella’s shoreline pulls back almost like clockwork, and the former town of Old Kernville, California, rises from its watery grave to reveal its crumbling skeleton.

Retired Hollywood cinematographer Chuck Barbee has watched the lake give up its famous ghost town many times with interest.