8 Eerie Abandoned Amusement Parks Across the United States

"Abandoned amusement parks are scattered across the U.S., each with its own intriguing history and reasons for closure, ranging from poor conditions to economic troubles. Many of these parks remain structurally intact for years, with overgrown rides and decaying buildings sometimes used as filming locations. While some can be visited via tours or viewed from a distance, like Lake Shawnee Amusement Park in West Virginia or Walt Disney World's Discovery Island, others are sealed off from the public."

"While some are demolished to make way for new developments, others sit in ruin, slowly succumbing to nature and time. They intrigue any enthusiast who wants to know what these parks were like at their peak-and why they closed. From the whimsical Land of Oz in North Carolina to the graffiti-ridden Lake Dolores Waterpark outside of Los Angeles, here are eight of the most fascinating abandoned amusement parks in the United States."

Abandoned amusement parks across the United States closed for reasons including poor maintenance, economic decline, and tragic incidents. Many parks remain structurally intact for years with overgrown rides, decaying buildings, and occasional use as filming locations. Some properties allow limited access through guided tours or distant viewing points, while others are sealed and off-limits. The sites attract enthusiasts drawn to their eerie atmosphere and to learn about peak-era operations and closure causes. Some parks have been demolished for redevelopment; others slowly succumb to nature. Examples include Lake Shawnee, Land of Oz, and Lake Dolores Waterpark.

Read at Travel + Leisure