Step Back in Time at Columbia State Historic Park
Discover the rich Gold Rush history at Columbia State Historic Park, a charming preserved town with engaging experiences and beautiful natural surroundings.
Nestled in the heart of California's Gold Country, Columbia State Historic Park is a captivating destination that transports visitors back to the 1850s during the Gold Rush. As a designated state park, it features a meticulously preserved historic town that allows tourists to experience life as it was over a century ago. Stroll along the charming, dusty streets lined with original wooden buildings, many of which house shops, eateries, and museums that showcase the area’s rich history. The park is not just a museum of buildings; it offers interactive experiences such as gold panning, where visitors can try their hand at finding real gold nuggets in the nearby waters. In addition to the fascinating historical sites, Columbia State Historic Park hosts various special events throughout the year, including living history demonstrations and festive celebrations that reflect the spirit of the Gold Rush era. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that provide deeper insights into the town's history and stories of its past residents. The park's natural beauty, with its oak trees and rolling hills, makes it an ideal spot for leisurely walks and picnics. Families will find plenty of engaging activities for children, ensuring a memorable outing for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to explore a unique part of California, Columbia State Historic Park offers a delightful blend of education, entertainment, and picturesque scenery.
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more personal experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven, historic streets.
- Check the park's event calendar for special reenactments and activities during your visit.
- Don't miss the gold panning activity; it’s fun for all ages!
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the park's scenic areas, or try the local eateries for a taste of the region.
A brief summary to Columbia State Historic Park
- 11259 Jackson St, Columbia, California, 95310, US
- +1209-588-9128
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from nearby cities in Gold Country, take Highway 49. From Sonora, head north on Mono Way, which will turn into Highway 49. Continue on Highway 49 until you reach the junction with Columbia Street. Turn left onto Columbia Street, and after about 1 mile, you will arrive at Columbia State Historic Park, located at 11259 Jackson St, Columbia, CA 95310. Parking is available at the park, and there may be a small fee of around $10 for parking.
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Public Transportation
To reach Columbia State Historic Park via public transportation, you can take the Tuolumne County Transit. Board the bus to Columbia and confirm that your route stops at Columbia State Historic Park. The bus will drop you off near the park entrance. Check the Tuolumne County Transit schedule for current times and routes, as services may vary. A one-way fare is typically around $3.
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Walking from Columbia Town
If you are already in the town of Columbia, getting to the State Historic Park is quite simple. Head east on Jackson Street from the town center. It’s about a 10-15 minute walk (approximately 0.5 miles). Follow the sidewalk and enjoy the charming historic buildings along the way. The park entrance will be on your left at 11259 Jackson St.
Attractions Nearby to Columbia State Historic Park
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Moaning Caverns Adventure Park
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Mark Twain Cabin
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California Gold Panning
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Angels Camp Museum
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Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum
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Calaveras Big Trees State Park
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Campo Seco (California Historical Landmark No. 257)
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Black Chasm Cavern National Natural Landmark
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Turlock Lake State Rec Area
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The Cowboy Museum
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California Historical Landmark No. 331
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Dead Giant Tunnel Tree
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Fox Grove Park
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Freedom Park
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Funworks Modesto
Landmarks nearby to Columbia State Historic Park
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California Historical Landmark 123: Columbia
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Springfield (California Historical Landmark #432)
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California Historical Landmark 424: Sawmill Flat
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Shaw's Flat (California Historical Landmark #395)
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Tuolumne County Museum
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California Historical Landmark 138: Mark Twain Cabin
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Vallecito Bell Monument (California Historical Landmark No. 370)
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Vallecito State Historic Landmark
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California Historical Landmark 274: Carson Hill
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California Historical Landmark 769: Birthplace of Archie Stevenot
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Jamestown (California Historical Landmark #431)
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Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
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California Historical Landmark 465: Site of Brownsville
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Murphys (California Historical Landmark No. 275)
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Angels Camp (California Historical Landmark No. 287)