Joe Ross
Small historic towns are found throughout this region, including Old Sacramento.
Words by Tina Caputo/Visit California
When it comes to California’s Gold Country, many think of Gold Rush history and gorgeous scenery—and the region has plenty of both. Located along the western edge of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the area drew thousands of gold prospectors from 1849 through the mid-1850s. Today, Gold Country visitors strike it rich in a different way. They discover a wealth of off-the-beaten-path experiences, from breathtaking hikes to incredible meals in America’s farm-to-fork capital.
Three guests—Marcia Eymann, city historian at the Center for Sacramento History; Preethi Chandrasekhar, author of The Eager Traveler blog; and Nick Leonti, owner of The Leonti Group travel marketing firm—shared their favourite Gold Country experiences in a recent episode of the California Now Podcast.
Jeffrey Beall
There’s easy access to the various towns from Angels Camp, which also has a great RV park.
“I was looking for a destination where I could combine the outdoors, plus some small historic towns, boutique shopping, and maybe even wine tasting,” Chandrasekhar told host Soterios Johnson. “I didn't expect Gold Country to have all of it, but that's exactly what I found.
From the charming towns of Placerville and Murphys to Sacramento’s craft breweries, here are some of the top picks from Chandrasekhar, Eymann, and Leonti for an unforgettable Gold Country getaway.
Joyce
Big Tree State Park.
Placerville: Small-Town Treasure
With its 19th-century architecture and historic Main Street, the town of Placerville has an Old West vibe that transports visitors back to the Gold Rush days. To immerse yourself in the town’s history, maybe take a break from the RV and book a room at the Historic Cary House Hotel, which claims that Buffalo Bill, Mark Twain, and Ulysses S. Grant were among some of its famous past guests.
While browsing the boutiques on Main St., stop at Winterhill Olive Oil, which is a purveyor of artisanal oils, vinegars, and other gourmet goodies. Dedrick’s Cheese sells a delicious array of local and imported cheeses, freshly baked bread, and Fromage-based condiments. You’ll also want to visit Sweetie Pie's Restaurant & Bakery that’s housed in a classic Victorian home and has a charming patio, providing a relaxing setting to savour some homemade pastries and/or any one of the decadent pies.
Alkan de Beaumont Chaglar
A glimpse of life in the 19th century in Columbia.
The Village of Murphys
About 105 km (65 mi) south of Placerville is Murphys. Main St. is home to more than 25 wine tasting rooms, including Newsome Harlow, which has a private patio. Just 1.6 km (1 mi) from downtown is Ironstone Vineyards. In addition to its beautiful grounds, you’ll want to do an estate tour and it’s also home to the 1927 Alhambra Theatre pipe organ— it can be heard in action during Ironstone’s popular silent movie showings. While perusing the downtown shops, don’t miss Moon Alley, the maker of one-of-a-kind handmade candles that are inlaid with beautiful designs.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park, Sonora, and Columbia
A quick 15-minute drive northeast from Murphys is Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Commune with giant Sequoias, which are some of the world’s largest trees, as you hike the trails of the popular North Grove and take in views of ancient volcanic formations and lush meadows. For urban hiking, visit the old mining town of Sonora, approximately 30 minutes south of Murphys. A 15-minute walk outside the charming downtown leads to the Dragoon Gulch Trailhead, featuring 4.8 km (3 mi) of natural trails with spectacular views of the city and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Young Shanahan
After some time under the hot California sun, there’s no shortage of craft breweries to quench your thirst.
The neighbouring community of Columbia is a living Gold Rush town that offers a glimpse of life in the 19th century, including merchants dressed in period clothing and stagecoach rides. During your visit, devour a burger with ‘killer garlic fries’ on the patio of Diamondback Grill or dine creek side on delicious Mexican fare at El Arroyo. Settle in for the night at Royal Olive Manor, Sonora’s newest bed-and-brunch destination. Beautifully renovated, the 1880s mansion features three elegantly appointed rooms—each decorated to represent a different period in the home’s history.
Find a New Adventure in Old Sac
Two hours northwest of Sonora is the capital city of Sacramento. Gain a sense of the city’s history with a walk along the riverfront in Old Sacramento, which is home to the state’s largest grouping of Gold Rush-era buildings. From here, hike or cycle along the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, a curvy 51 km (32 mi) path along the American River’s lush, tree-lined riverbank.
Robert Couse-Baker
Farm-to-table dining is common in many of the local restaurants.
Next, treat yourself to some of Sacramento’s famous farm-to-table cuisine. The Shack in East Sacramento has terrific sandwiches, burgers, and clam chowder, which are preferably washed down with local beer. Right next door is Allora, a welcoming, upscale eatery known for its Italian seafood dishes. Bicycle-themed One Speed is a local favourite for pizza featuring seasonal Sacramento Valley produce.
Hosting more than 70 breweries, the Sacramento region is renowned for its craft beers. Kick back in its downtown district with a visit to Urban Roots Brewery & Smokehouse with its in-house brews—especially the Belgian-style offerings. Outside of the city, in Auburn, Moonraker and Knee-Deep Brewing are turning heads with their award-winning offerings. Cider fans, too, will find plenty of delicious options at Two Rivers Cider Co. in Sacramento and are known for its wildly creative lineup.
As most RV parks are open all year in Gold Country, you can explore the area anytime, and at your own pace and convenience. There’s fantastic dining, shopping, in addition to natural and historic attractions, which will provide fond memories and experiences that can only be found in California.
Where to Stay in Gold Country
In addition to the several attractions throughout Gold Country, RV parks provide more enjoyment with many services, amenities, and additional outdoor activities.
Placerville KOA Campground
Placerville, CA
Nestled in the foothills between the Sacramento Valley and the Sierra Nevada Mountains of Lake Tahoe, this KOA has many amenities including 50 amp (max), pull-through sites, WiFi, an indoor pool (from May to September), plus a hot tub/sauna, mini-golf, and a playground. It makes a perfect home base to venture out and enjoy day trips as the park is close to the American River, Apple Hill, and Old Town Sacramento.
www.koa.com/campgrounds/placerville
Angels Camp RV & Camping Resort
Angels Camp, CA
About 10 minutes from Murphys and 20 minutes to Columbia, this pet-friendly RV park has big rig and pull-through sites (21 m (70 ft) max length), 30/50 amp, WiFi (with tech support), as well as BBQs, tables, and fire rings at the sites. The resort is approximately 40 km (25 mi) to Calaveras Big Trees State Park and 97 km (60 mi) to Yosemite. There are also a variety of golf courses within 30 minutes of the resort, while anglers and boaters can enjoy New Melones Lake.
Black Oak Casino Resort
Tuolumne, CA
This is one of the closer RV parks to Sonora where you can settle in with your trailer or motorhome. It offers 85 full hook-up paved sites, a clubhouse, pool and spa, horseshoes, 30/50 amp power, and WiFi. It also has big rig and pull-through sites (max length 14 m (45 ft)). You can also always stroll over to the casino and try your luck or take in some live entertainment.
SacWest RV Park & Campground
West Sacramento, CA
Easy to access with 30/50 amp power, pull-through sites, free WiFi, a dog park, and an on-site restaurant, SacWest RV Park & Campground is the ideal place to take the toad or tow vehicle to check out all the attractions in Old Sacramento, which is just 10 minutes away.