America’s Biggest Classic Car Boneyards to Explore

Salvage Yards as Open-Air Museums

For many classic car enthusiasts, a salvage yard feels more like a time capsule than a scrapyard. Rows of aging steel tell stories of road trips, trends, and technology. Moreover, these places keep history alive by saving parts and cars that modern supply chains no longer support.

Today, regulations and changing manufacturing have thinned the ranks of traditional yards. However, several massive operations still welcome visitors and buyers. They function as outdoor museums, research libraries, and sometimes as unexpected art installations.

Consequently, a trip to a big “boneyard” can spark a restoration, complete one, or simply inspire. In many cases, you can walk the grounds, take photos, and even buy hard-to-find components. Furthermore, some sites sell complete cars when feasible.

Southeast and Desert Landmarks

Old Car City USA in White, Georgia, ranks among the world’s most famous classic yards. The site spans 34 acres with more than 4,000 American cars from the 1930s through the 1970s. Moreover, six miles of forested trails turn rust and chrome into a photographer’s playground.

Notably, Old Car City began as a 1931 general store before evolving into today’s open-air showcase. Visitors pay admission to explore, and select parts or cars sometimes sell at premium prices. Additionally, lore surrounds the grounds, including a Ford truck tied to a Johnny Cash and Andy Griffith film and a car linked to Elvis Presley.

In Arizona, Desert Valley Auto Parts near Phoenix offers another giant footprint, with more than 10,000 classics on hand. The dry climate preserves bodies and trim far better than humid regions. Furthermore, the yard operates daily as a parts source and once starred in the TV series Desert Car Kings.

Mountain and Pacific Northwest Standouts

L&L Classic Auto in Wendell, Idaho, spreads across roughly 120 acres and holds an estimated 10,000 vehicles. For hunters of obscure trim or glass, it often delivers the rare find. Moreover, the operation keeps the spirit of the “old school” yard alive.