Things to do in Jackson
Calaveras Big Trees State Park
Calaveras became a State Park in 1931 to preserve the North Grove of giant sequoias. This grove includes the "Discovery Tree", the first Sierra redwood noted by Augustus T. Dowd in 1852. This area has been a major tourist attraction ever since, and is considered the longest continuously operated tourist facility in California Call 209-795-2334 for more information.
Calaveras County Museum & Archives
The Museum complex includes the Courthouse, Jail Yard and Hall of Records, each with displays dating to the Gold Rush era. Our outstanding Mi Wok Indian exhibit includes artifacts, photos and quotes revealing their lifestyle. Call 209-754-4658 for more information.
30 N. Main St., Jackson, CA 95249
Columbia State Historical Park
Columbia seems to be frozen in the past. Today, California's best-preserved gold-rush town provides a blend of museums, family activities and much more. Call 209-532-1672 for more information.
Kennedy Gold Mine Tours
The Kennedy Mine, famous for being one of the deepest gold mines in the world (at 5912 feet), demonstrates how gold changed an entire way of life in California. Call 209-223-9542 for more information.
Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park is the place where James W. Marshall found some shining flecks of gold in the tailrace of the sawmill he was building for himself and John Sutter. The park has a museum, with exhibits that tell the story of the Gold Rush, a replica of the sawmill and a number of historic buildings. Visitors also have the opportunity to try panning for gold in the American River or enjoy a picnic under the trees.