According to the USGS, there are about 18,000 tonnes of gold that remain undiscovered in the U.S. You can bet that plenty of that can be found in Northern California! In fact, you’ll find that there are plenty of parks and areas where you can try your hand at gold-digging, including at the endlessly fascinating Marshall Gold Discovery State Park. Visit this awesome state park in Coloma and you will be taken back to the Gold Rush era of the Golden State. Plus, you may just strike it big!
Located in Coloma, Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park preserves the exact spot where James Marshall famously first discovered gold in 1848. Visitors of the park can spend the day traveling back to the incredible era that forever changed the face of California.
The park itself is one of the most significant historic sites in the nation, complete with a replica of the original sawmill and over 20 historic buildings. Fascinating exhibits can be found in many of the buildings, including a mining exhibit, Chinese store exhibits, and a schoolhouse exhibits.
You could spend hours simply walking among the historic structures and taking it all in. However, you'll find that there are plenty of fun family-friendly activities to take part in, as well.
This, of course, includes panning for gold like a real Gold Rush-era prospector. Wander down to the American River and spend some time panning, all while keeping an eye out for gold flecks and nuggets. You never know what you'll find!
If you've never panned for gold before, you can always take part in one of the gold panning lessons that are offered daily. Lessons take place at 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. Space for lessons is limited and entry is given on a first-come, first-served basis.
The park also offers guided Gold Discovery Tours. This tour is a great way to learn all about the history of the gold discovery, the town of Coloma, and the story of the California Gold Rush as a whole. Tours are offered twice a day, weather permitting.
There's definitely still gold to be found around Sutter's Hill. The question is, will you be able to find it? Give it a try when you visit this fascinating historic park in Coloma, California! Learn more about the park and what it has to offer here.
Have you gone gold panning at this historic state park before? What’s your favorite gold hunting spot in Northern California? If you feel like sharing with us, please do in the comments below!
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