Prisons are among the most haunted places due to the immense pain, fear, and desperation experienced within their walls. Ghost sightings, chilling screams, and cold spots are commonly reported in these abandoned correctional facilities. Some prisoners who met tragic ends seem to linger, their restless spirits wandering the dimly lit corridors. Paranormal investigators have documented unexplained activity, from shadow figures to mysterious voices calling from empty cells.
15 haunted prison locations across America. Click pins to explore.
Nestled in the remote mountains of Morgan County, Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary stands as Tennessee’s most notorious former prison. This imposing fortress of stone and steel operated for 113 years before closing its doors in 2009. The prison earned its fearsome reputation by housing the state’s most dangerous criminals in brutal conditions. Death, violence, and…
Standing on a windswept bluff overlooking the Colorado River, the Yuma Territorial Prison once housed the most dangerous criminals in the Arizona Territory from 1876 to 1909. Known as the “Hell Hole of Arizona,” this notorious prison subjected inmates to brutal conditions in the scorching desert heat, and today it’s considered one of the most…
The Old Jail in St. Augustine stands as one of Florida’s most notorious haunted locations, having housed some of the state’s most dangerous criminals from 1891 to 1953. Built during a time when justice was swift and punishment was harsh, this Victorian-style jail is now famous for its paranormal activity and the restless spirits that…
Michigan’s First State Prison, known as Jackson Prison or “Jacktown,” once held the grim distinction of being the world’s largest walled prison, a sprawling fortress of suffering where thousands of inmates lived, died, and met brutal ends within its imposing stone walls. Operating from 1839 to 1934 before relocating to a nearby facility, this original…
Heart Mountain Relocation Center was one of the ten internment camps used to imprison Japanese Americans during World War II. Once home to more than 10,000 people, it now stands mostly empty—except for what many believe to be the lingering spirits of those who suffered behind its fences. Historical Background Paranormal Activity Summary People report…
The Wyoming Frontier Prison in Rawlins is one of the most chilling spots in the state. Built in the early 1900s, this former penitentiary housed some of the most dangerous criminals. After decades of violence, death, and despair within its stone walls, it’s no wonder many believe the place is still haunted. Historical Background Paranormal…
Eastern State Penitentiary is one of the most famous haunted prisons in America. Built in the 1800s, it once housed some of the country’s most dangerous criminals. Now, it’s better known for its chilling atmosphere, echoing halls, and countless ghost sightings. Historical Background It’s said that guards once chained prisoners to walls, doused them in…
The Licking County Historic Jail has stood for over a century in Newark, Ohio. Originally a place of law and order, it’s now better known for its ghost stories than its inmates. Visitors and locals alike whisper about strange sounds, shadowy figures, and sudden cold drafts. Many believe the jail’s dark past still lingers within…
The Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield is one of America’s most haunted prisons. Once a place meant for rehabilitation, it turned into a house of pain and suffering. With a long history of violence, deaths, and despair, it’s now better known for its ghosts than its inmates. Historical Background Paranormal Activity Summary Visitors report screams,…
The Old Lavaca County Jail in Hallettsville is a chilling piece of Texas history. Built in the late 1800s, it once held outlaws, murderers, and the broken souls of the Wild West. Now empty of prisoners, it’s said to be full of spirits. Visitors report strange voices, footsteps, and the eerie feeling of being watched….
Discover spine-chilling locations, paranormal hotspots, and supernatural encounters across all 50 states. Click any state to begin your journey into the unknown.