- Tuolumne Meadows Campground
Tuolumne Meadows Campground is also off Tioga Road (Highway 120) - it's the one farthest east. Largest of all Yosemite Campgrounds, Tuolumne is open approximately July through approximately late-September, reservations are available for half of the sites - the rest are first-come, first-served. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6gcur48
- Porcupine Flat Campground
Porcupine Flat Campground is off Tioga Road (Highway 120), and has a seasonal creek running by. It's open approximately July through approximately October 15, reservations are not available - it's strictly first-come, first-served. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6gcur48
- Yosemite Creek Campground
Yosemite Creek Campground is off Tioga Road (Highway 120), and has its namesake creek running right through the middle. It's open approximately July through approximately early-September, reservations are not available - it's strictly first-come, first-served. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6gcur48
- White Wolf Campground
White Wolf Campground is off Tioga Road (Highway 120), and is open approximately July through approximately early-September, reservations are NOT available - it's strictly first-come, first-served.
White Wolf has 74 sites (small RVs are allowed), and each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, a picnic table, a food locker, nearby restrooms with flushing toilets, and drinkable water. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6gcur48
- Tamarack Flat Campground
Tamarack Flat Campground is off Tioga Road (Highway 120), and is open approximately late-June through approximately September, reservations are NOT available - it's strictly first-come, first-served.
Tamarack Flat has 52 sites (RVs are not recommended), and each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, a picnic table, a food locker, nearby vault toilets, and NO drinkable water. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6gcur48
- Crane Flat Campground
Crane Flat Campground is also off Big Oak Flat Road, and is open approximately July through approximately September, reservations are available for 50% of the sites - the rest are first-come, first-served.
This is one of the larger of Yosemite campgrounds with 166 sites (RVs allowed), and each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, a picnic table, a food locker, nearby restrooms with flushing toilets, and drinkable water. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6gcur48
- Hodgdon Meadow
Hodgdon Meadow Campground is off Big Oak Flat Road, and is open all year, reservations required from mid-April through mid-October - first-come, first-served the rest of the year.
Hodgdon Meadow has 105 sites (RVs allowed), and each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, a picnic table, a food locker, nearby restrooms with flushing toilets, and drinkable water. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6gcur48
- Bridalveil Creek
Bridalveil Creek Campground is off Glacier Point Road, and is open approximately July through approximately early September, no reservations - it's strictly first-come, first-served.
This campground has 110 sites (RVs allowed), and each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, a picnic table, nearby restrooms with flushing toilets, and drinkable water. The food lockers are shared.
You have to go down to Curry Village and Housekeeping Camp for showers - about a half-hour drive. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6gcur48
- Wawona Campground
Wawona Campground is near the Wawona Hotel, along the South Fork of the Merced River, and is open all year, reservations required May through September; it's first-come, first-served the rest of the year.
Wawona has 93 sites (RVs allowed), and each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, a picnic table, nearby restrooms with flushing toilets, and drinkable water. The food lockers are shared. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6gcur48
- North Pines Campground
This campground has 81 sites (RVs allowed), and each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, a picnic table, a food locker, nearby restrooms with flushing toilets, and drinkable water.
Showers are available at Curry Village and Housekeeping Camp.
You'll find groceries nearby at both Yosemite Village and Curry Village, and pets are allowed at North Pines (properly leashed). See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6gcur48
- Lower Pines Campground
Lower Pines is smaller than Upper Pines, with only 60 sites (RVs allowed), and each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, a picnic table, a food locker, nearby restrooms with flushing toilets, and drinkable water.
Showers are available at Curry Village and Housekeeping Camp.
You'll find groceries nearby at both Yosemite Village and Curry Village, and pets are allowed at Lower Pines (properly leashed). See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6gcur48
- Upper Pines Campground
Upper Pines Campground is the largest of Yosemite campgrounds in the Valley, and it's located near Curry Village. It's open all year, but reservations are only required from March 15 through November - the rest of the year is first-come, first served.
You'll find 238 campsites at this campground (RVs are allowed at Upper Pines), and each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, a picnic table, a food locker to protect your food from marauding bears (trust me, they do maraud!), nearby restrooms with flushing toilets, and drinkable water. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6gcur48
- Trinity Lake
Trinity Lake is actually a reservoir, created by the 1962 damming of the Trinity River through the efforts of then U.S. Senator Clair Engle. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6kz5z5v
- Trinity River
Dammed twice in the 1960s to provide irrigation and municipal water for the Central Valley Project in California's agricultural center, most of the river's water was diverted South, resulting in near disaster to the salmon and steelhead populations.
With minimum annual flows finally established for the Trinity River
in the early 1980s, the waters downstream of the Lewiston Dam were restored sufficiently to support runs of salmon and steelhead (maintained partly by hatcheries), and to provide opportunities for whitewater rafting and kayaking. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6kz5z5v
- Trinity Alps Wilderness
Consisting of over a half-million acres, the Trinity Alps Wilderness encompasses over 400 miles of trails, the headwaters of the Salmon and Trinity Rivers, small lakes and ponds nestled into glacial cirques, year-round snow-covered peaks, thick forests, granite slabs and pinnacles, gold mining relics, and a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail.
Favorite activities include hiking and backpacking (map and
compass skills are indispensable), cycling and mountain biking the many loops and fat-tire trails, gold panning (there's still gold to be found in them thar hills!), rock climbing, fishing in the lakes and streams for trout, steelhead, and chinook, and the hunting of bear, deer, and band-tailed pigeons. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6kz5z5v
- Trinity Alps
The Trinity Alps are part of the Klamath Mountains, which includes some of the most isolated, untamed, and unvisited wilderness areas in California. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6kz5z5v
- Blue Wing Inn
First hotel built north of San Francisco. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6xqjkr5
- Sonoma Barracks
Today at the barracks watch a video about Sonoma Plaza history, the Mission, General Vallejo, and the Bear Flag Revolution. There's also a replica of the original Bear Flag on display (the original was destroyed during the 1906 Great Earthquake and Fires in San Francisco). Rumor has it that the red stripe at the bottom of the first flag was material taken from a woman's petticoat.
Inside the Barracks you'll find a Gift Store with, among other things, a variety of books on Native Americans, Mexican history, and the history of the California Missions. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6xqjkr5
- Sonoma Mission
Join one of the Docent-led Mission Tours to learn about Native American life, and Mission life, as well as to view the paintings and artifacts. If you're there on a Thursday, you might see school children learning to make Native American baskets and candles.
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6xqjkr5
- Sonoma Plaza
Sonoma California is home to Sonoma Plaza with its historic buildings, boutique shops, and world-class restaurants. Originally laid out by General Mariano Vallejo, himself, Sonoma Plaza is the largest town plaza in California.
Sonoma Plaza
Around the plaza, you'll discover cheese factories, breweries, and art galleries. You'll find the Story of California, Sonoma Plaza History, and you'll explore Mission San Francisco Solano de Sonoma, the northernmost of the California missions. See more at Discover Northern California:http://tinyurl.com/6xxy3gd
- Sonoma Plaza
Picnic at one of Sonoma California's regional parks, starting with the eight-acre Plaza Park in the center of Sonoma with a duck pond, a children's playground, an outdoor amphitheater, grand old trees, and two historic buildings. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6xxy3gd
- West Cliff Drive
A 2.5 mile path overlooking the Bay where you can stroll, jog, or ride your bike, enjoying the people-watching and whale watching, the salt-water infused breeze, and the view. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/692nc6d
- Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf
another 1/2 mile-long stretch (this time stretching out into the water instead of alongside), the wharf offers family-owned fish markets and seafood restaurants, boutiques, fishing and crabbing off the side, sea lions underneath, and beautiful vistas. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/692nc6d
- Seacliff State Beach
Near Rio del Mar, a cute little hamlet with a few restaurants and coffeehouses, Seacliff lays claim to the USS Palo Alto, a half-sunken cement ship originally brought to the area to serve as an amusement center. See more at Discover Northern California:http://tinyurl.com/692nc6d
- Natural Bridges State Beach
Known for its naturally carved stone arches and the Monarch butterflies that Winter over, it's a great place for climbing and exploring North of town. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/692nc6d
- Steamer Lane
Located just below Lighthouse Point, this is the beach of international surfing fame - it's a zoo of young surfers trying out their stuff during smaller surf days; the more experienced surfers jump on their boards when Middle Peak wakes up, in hopes of catching the Big One. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/692nc6d
- Santa Cruz Beach
It may look like one long beach, but it's actually two. Cowell Beach is to the North of Municipal Pier, and Santa Cruz or Main Beach runs along in front of the Beach Boardwalk - it's a wide and long expance of sand perfect for volleyball, long walks, swimming, and beginner surfing See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/692nc6d
- The Brazen Head
Try The Brazen Head on Buchanan Street if you want a true neighborhood place with Old School San Francisco flair. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6xc88w5
- The Cannery
The Cannery is housed in a converted Del Monte peachcannery and offers shops & restaurants, along with live entertainment in its central square under the shade of its venerable, 130 year old olive trees. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/69jqtlp
- North Beach
The San Francisco North Beach neighborhood is tucked between Chinatown and Fisherman's Wharf. It's fairly easy walking distance to or from either one if you're in reasonable walking-shape; and it's another of those split-personality-type neighborhoods, fun for both tourists and locals!
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6436gaq
- Anchor Brewing Company
Take a tour of the Anchor Brewing Company brewery at 1705 Mariposa Street - they give two tours every weekday, and there's a tasting at the end of the tour. Please Note: you must make a reservation in advance (like a month in advance) as the tours are very popular! See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/cf63wm
- Museo Italo Americano
The Museo ItaloAmericano salutes Italian & Italian-American art and culture in the Fort Mason Center at Marina Blvd and Buchanan Street (located in Building C). See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/cf63wm
- National Maritime Museum
he ship-shaped former Aquatic Park Bathhouse, now National Maritime Museum (2905 Hyde St) at Fisherman's Wharf was closed for a few years for renovation, but it's has now reopened and, while planning for new exhibits continues, the lobby murals have been restored and there are several displays in the museum lobby. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/cf63wm
- San Francisco Cable Car Museum
The San Francisco Cable Car Museum gives you historic and technical pictures and information about the operation of cable cars; it's at 1201 Mason. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/cf63wm
- The North Beach Museum
The North Beach Museum on the second floor of the Eureka Bank Building at 1435 Stockton in North Beach tells the story of this unique Italian neighborhood. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/cf63wm
- Coit Tower
Commissioned by Lillie Hancock Coit, San Francisco's Coit Tower stands tall and overlooks the Bay.
Take a City Guides tour up to the top (they're free)!
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/n4vp86
- Coit Tower
Enjoy the stunning views of The City from the top of the hill. Study the murals in the main lobby, which are open to the general public, free of charge. Climb the stairs - or take the elevator - to the top observation deck for even more striking panoramas. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/6ff68f6
- Chinatown
The dual personality of Chinatown is a fun visit! Experience the touristy Chinatown that most people know, but don't miss the very real Chinese community that lives, shops, and works in Chinatown. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/n4vp86
- Golden Gate Bridge
Probably the most iconic of San Francisco attractions is the Golden Gate Bridge! Towering 746 feet tall, 220 feet above the water, and spanning 1.7 miles across the Golden Gate Strait, the GGB is San Francisco's most recognizable symbol. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/n4vp86
- Silverado Trail
Follow the famous Silverado Trail - named in honor of the silver that was discovered in 1858.
Visit as many of the wineries as you like, but a visit should definitely include Stag's Leap Wine Cellars!
Why? Because Stag's Leap is one of the wineries that made Napa Valley world famous in 1976 when they won the red wine portion of the Judgment of Paris wine competition against the French!
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3ltlsky
- Robert Louis Stevenson State Park
Spend some time at Skyline Wilderness Park for the hiking, biking, and horse trails; or the Carolyn Parr Nature Museum near Westwood Hills Park; and, of course the Robert Louis Stevenson State Park where the famous man spent his 1880 honeymoon - you'll enjoy the wild terrain and evergreen forests! If you're very brave and fit, make the climb to the top of Mount St. Helena. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3vzgqys
- Carolyn Parr Nature Museum
Spend some time at Skyline Wilderness Park for the hiking, biking, and horse trails; or the Carolyn Parr Nature Museum near Westwood Hills Park; and, of course the Robert Louis Stevenson State Park where the famous man spent his 1880 honeymoon - you'll enjoy the wild terrain and evergreen forests! If you're very brave and fit, make the climb to the top of Mount St. Helena. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3vzgqys
- Skyline Wilderness Park
Spend some time at Skyline Wilderness Park for the hiking, biking, and horse trails; or the Carolyn Parr Nature Museum near Westwood Hills Park; and, of course the Robert Louis Stevenson State Park where the famous man spent his 1880 honeymoon - you'll enjoy the wild terrain and evergreen forests! If you're very brave and fit, make the climb to the top of Mount St. Helena. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3vzgqys
- Lakes Berryessa
Napa and Napa Valley get all the attention, but the rest of Napa County has plenty to offer also!
It's home to the San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge; several lakes, including Lakes Berryessa and Hennessey, offer recreational opportunities; you'll find fishing, boating, camping, and white water; take a drive in the country and up into the foothills; visit a petrified forest or Old Faithful Geyser of California. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3vzgqys
- San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Napa and Napa Valley get all the attention, but the rest of Napa County has plenty to offer also!
It's home to the San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge; several lakes, including Lakes Berryessa and Hennessey, offer recreational opportunities; you'll find fishing, boating, camping, and white water; take a drive in the country and up into the foothills; visit a petrified forest or Old Faithful Geyser of California.
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3vzgqys
- Chef's Market
Napa takes its food seriously, too! Napa California is seriously gourmet, seriously green, seriously local, and seriously organic - all of which is reflected in its farmers' markets.
Two of Napa County's best are Chef's Market in the town of Napa, and St. Helena's Farmers' Market! See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3ltlsky
- Napa Town Center
The downtown is being renovated with stylishly designed hotels, shops, restaurants, cafes, and galleries, all well-devised to blend with the historic look Napans wish to preserve. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3vzgqys
- Mono Lake
This is a large and shallow lake in Mono County on the Eastern side of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. As a desert lake, it has an unusually diverse ecosystem based on the brine shrimp that thrive in its saline waters, providing critical nesting habitat for two million annual migratory birds that feed on the shrimp. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/4ybur2g
- Point Cabrillo Lighthouse
Tour the Point Cabrillo Lighthouse - it's in the process of being rennovated through volunteer work and you'll find an interesting history there! See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/llxekl
- Little River Inn Garden Dining Room
My favorites are the Little River Inn Garden Dining Room (we've never been disappointed here, and it's great fun to spend some time in Ole's Whale Watch Bar with the locals before dinner!)...See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/llxekl
- Van Damme State Park
Spend some time at Van Damme State Park on Little River - home to the Fern Canyon Trail, Mendocino County's own Pygmy Forest, and the Cabbage Patch! See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/llxekl
- Triangle Tattoo & Museum
Visit during First Friday when the galleries and shops highlight local artists' works - and speaking of art, you won't want to miss a visit to Triangle Tattoo, combination Tattoo Parlor and Tattoo Museum! See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/kovrqe
- Glass Beach
Discover Glass Beach - a fascinating example of how Mother Nature can correct man's mistakes!
At one time people were using this spot to dump all kinds of trash into the ocean - sort of an unofficial city dump - the practice was finally stopped and over the years the pounding waves have polished the pieces of broken glass into smooth-sided gem-like rocks to delight us; you'll find lively tidepools to explore there as well. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/kovrqe
- Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
Explore the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, the only botanical gardens in the continental United States that has ocean-front footage; 47 acres of beauty, and you can bring your pooch along to meander the paths with you...See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/kovrqe
- Skunk Train
Ride the Skunk Train as it criss-crosses the Noyo River through coastal mountains and scenic redwood forests...See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/kovrqe
- Kelley House Museum
Learn something about the fascinating history of the Mendo coast and the founding families by visiting the Ford House Museum or the Kelley House Museum; or stop in at the historic Mendocino Presbyterian Church - don't miss the Turrentine Memorial Rose Garden while you're there. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/lycnra
- Ford House Museum
Learn something about the fascinating history of the Mendo coast and the founding families by visiting the Ford House Museum or the Kelley House Museum; or stop in at the historic Mendocino Presbyterian Church - don't miss the Turrentine Memorial Rose Garden while you're there. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/lycnra
- Mendocino Art Center
Immerse yourself in an artsy experience at the Mendocino Art Center - you'll find classes, exhibits, concerts, theater productions, local art for purchase, and a garden tour. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/lycnra
- Mendocino Headlands State Park
This beautifully scenic spot, the seaside bluffs, the islets, and the beaches surrounding the Village have been designated as Mendocino Headlands State Park - meaning that you and your family can wander the paths and cliffs of the headlands, have a picnic on the beach, and explore the ins and outs of the sea caves and grottos. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/lycnra
- Mendocino Village
The village is lined with beautiful Victorian inns, unique shops - some on the main drags, and some nestled back in little alleys and by-ways that are beautifully landscaped - museums, saltbox homes, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants.
And the setting is unbelievably dramatic! The whole village sits atop the bluffs of the Mendocino Headlands, with the constant crash of ocean waves on the rocks and beaches below acting as nature's musical backdrop to village life.
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/lycnra
- Glen Ellen Village Market
Even if you've already eaten, or you packed your lunch before leaving Sonoma, Glen Ellen Village Market is a must-see!
Inside what looks like a typical village market (although it might seem a bit larger than most - because it is!), you'll find the most amazing display of hot, ready-to-eat entrees for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; handmade deli sandwiches; a 30-foot salad bar for creating your own masterpiece or choosing from 20 homemade prepared salads; over 500 varieties of cheeses and almost as many types of olives; a bakery; gifts and flowers; produce; meats; seafood; and wines. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3hyx2pb
- Point Arena Lighthouse
On your way to Point Arena for a tour of the Point Arena Lighthouse, don't miss the spectacular St. Orres Hotel and Restaurant. It was built in 1972 in a style meant to honor the area's Russian heritage, onion-domed turrets and all. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/cdhzoe
- Mt. Rose-Ski Tahoe
Mt. Rose is the smallest of the Lake Tahoe ski resorts, with 8 lifts, 60 runs, and only 1200 acres, but it's not to be dismissed lightly - it's a largely undiscovered gem!
Mt. Rose's special claim to fame is The Chutes (for both skiers and boarders) - 1500 foot vertical and 40-55 degrees; some of the steepest in the country! Skiiers and boarders, traversing The Chutes side-by-side... a great place for experienced riders to take their skills to the next level! See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3ou29da
- Sierra at Tahoe
One of Lake Tahoe's smaller ski resorts, Sierra at Tahoe is, nevertheless, worthy of recommendation here - especially if you're bringing the kidlettes along!
They have the greatest themed and educational Adventure Zones for kids and their parents - The Bear Cave, Gold Rush, Pony Express, Teepee Town.
Plus skiing, boarding, tubing, snowshoeing, dining, lodging, and Après Ski! See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3ou29da
- Empire Mine State Historic Park
Plan to spend a good part of your day at this historic park, as there's a lot to see & do! Start at the Visitors' Center in the old carraige house & stables building. Find out about the guided tours, living history presentations, and audio-visuals that are offered throughout the day so you can make your plans accordingly. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3onplcf
- Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
Visit California's Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park at Coloma and you'll find a replica of Sutter's Mill, where James Marshall first discovered the precious metal, plus over 20 historic buildings. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3z5d6lp
- Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum
Great museum for learning how schooling was done back in the day. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3la9ue4
- California Military Museum
The Military Museum for militia and military heritage - see more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3la9ue4
- Pilothouse Restaurant
My husband and I stayed on the Delta King recently and it was an excellent experience! The rooms are small (as you would expect), but completely renovated and very clean.
The staff were cheery and helpful, and the food, prepared by their restaurant, was wonderful! See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3la9ue4
- California Fats
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3la9ue4
- The Firehouse Restaurant
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3la9ue4
- Old Sacramento
See Old Sacramento through the eyes of an historical character
thanks to the Living History Program. As mentioned above, tour Old Sac's underground. Take the Architectural History tour, or a Ghost Tour where you'll meet victims of the Great Flood of 1950; book an Hysterical History Tour; or pick up a self-guided walking tour at the Visitors' Center and explore Old Sac's history on your own. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3la9ue4
- Delta King
The Delta King is an authentic Paddle-wheeled riverboat which operated between San Francisco and Sacramento in the 1920s and 1930s.
Today, it's been renovated and serves as a hotel, restaurant, and bar for those with a hankering for history.
My husband and I stayed on the Delta King recently and it was an excellent experience! The rooms are small (as you would expect), but completely renovated and very clean.
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3la9ue4
- Levi Strauss Factory and Museum
In the Jackson Square District, at 250 Valencia Street, stands the Levi Strauss Factory and Museum, documenting Levi's story of "rags" to riches (the pants he and his partner made resulted from his observations that the wool or linen pants of the day couldn't withstand the rigors of prospecting for gold).
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/puvtlm
- Union Bank of California: Money of the American West Museum
And within the Union Bank of California (in their basement) is a "Money of the American West" museum. Among other Gold Rush-era artifacts, you'll find a cache of gold nuggets.
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/puvtlm
- Wells Fargo: San Francisco History Museum
The Wells Fargo Museum at California & Montgomery Streets is free to the public and has a collection of memorabilia. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/puvtlm
- Jackson Square
Jackson Square is surrounded by some of San Francisco's earliest architecture, lined as it is by Barbary Coast-era buildings. Before the Gold Rush and the filling in of parts of the Bay, this site was under water! See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/puvtlm
- Barbary Coast Trail
San Francisco's infamous Barbary Coast was named after the coast of North Africa because of its resemblance to that continent's piratical and lawless activities. Today there's an historical walking tour named in its honor. Not all of the sites along the tour are associated with the San Francisco Gold Rush, but all are interesting in the context of The City's overall history. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/puvtlm
- Tadich Grill
At 240 California Street, you'll find Tadich Grill, the oldest restaurant, not only in San Francisco but in all of the West. It has been in continuous operation in one form or another since 1849 when it was a coffee stand, and it's a great place to eat - excellent food, friendly service, and huge portions! Their menus are printed daily (and dated!), so you know the specials are fresh! See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/puvtlm
- California State Indian Museum
There's the State Indian Museum right next door to the Sutter's Fort, with its Native American artifacts, photographs, and basket collection. Enjoy the hands-on area where you can try using Indian tools, and visit the Museum Store for Native-made jewelry, gourds, and other items. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/44eufcc
- Sutter's Fort State Historic Park
Today you can take a self-guided tour of Sutter's Fort to see what life was like for John Sutter and his people.
The fort is renovated to the specifications of the 1848 Kunzul Map, and is fitted out with period furniture, dishes, armory, doctor's surgery, bakery, etc.
There's a self-guided audio tour with stations at each shop and room to tell you what you're looking at, complete with historic details. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/44eufcc
- St. George Reef Lighthouse
Even more remote and harder to reach is the St. George Reef Lighthouse! It sits on a tiny Northwest Seal Rock (only 300 feet in diameter), and is regularly battered by storms with waves that sometimes exceed 70 feet.
How do you tour such a remote lighthouse? By helicopter, of course!
Weather permitting, your tour will take off from the Crescent City Airport, land you on the caisson roof near the base of the tower where you'll be greeted and shown around for about an hour. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3h853l2
- Battery Point Lighthouse
One of the first lighthouses on the California coast, Battery Point Lighthouse was built on a tiny islet that is surrounded by the ocean except at low tide, when it's possible to walk out the islet and back. Time your visit to the lighthouse and museum with care or you may not make it back to shore! See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3h853l2
- Point St George
Tide pools dot the coastline around Crescent City, and indeed all of Del Norte County. Walk along the Coastal Trail to Hidden Beach, explore Pebble Beach - which is also a good spot for agate hunting - Point St. George, and Redwood National Park Crescent Beach are just a few of the spots that offer excellent tide pool opportunities. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3h853l2
- Ocean World
Just off Highway 101, not far from Crescent City Harbor, you'll find Ocean World (once called Under Sea Gardens and then Undersea World). Take an interactive guided tour of the facility to visit the aquarium and experience the interactive tide pool and shark-petting exhibits. Don't forget to take a look around the extensive and well-stocked gift shop. See more at Discovery Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3h853l2
- Northcoast Marine Mammal Center
Located in Crescent City's Beachfront Park, the Northcoast Marine Mammal Center rescues and rehabilitates stranded, sick or injured Seals, Sea Lions, Dolphins, Porpoises and Whales. Visit the kiosks and outdoor pens to learn about the importance of our marine environment, and about the rescue operations.
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3h853l2
- Crescent City Harbor
Visit Crescent City Harbor - home to commercial fishing fleets (they seek, at various times of the year, salmon, shrimp, tuna, cod, and dungeness Crab). You'll also find whale watching, scuba diving, and fishing charters, sailing, access to two historic lighthouses - you can even partake of some excellent crabbing from Citizens' Wharf. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3h853l2
- Crescent City Harbor
- Tour Thru Tree
One of three trees with tunnels in the North State, the Klamath Tour-Thru-Tree is the only one in Del Norte County California (the other two are in Humboldt County CA).
The tunnel was created in 1976 with a chainsaw, and the tree is purportedly over 700 years old.
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3h853l2
- Smith River National Recreation Area
Set within Six Rivers National Forest you'll find the Smith River National Recreation Area, with the wild and scenic river it shares with Jedediah Smith Park, its old growth Redwoods, and watersports, its trails for horseback riding, biking, and hiking, and its wilderness. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3h853l2
- Six Rivers National Forest
Comprised of both National Forest acres and acres of other
ownership (such as Smith River National Recreation Area, below), Six Rivers lies in Del Norte, Humboldt, Trinity, and Siskiyou Counties.
And, unlike some housing developments that are named for things that never existed within them (even before the houses came along), Six Rivers actually does have six rivers: the Smith River, the Klamath River, the Trinity River, the Mad River, the Van Duzen River, and the Eel River.
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3h853l2
- Redwood National Park
Straddling Del Norte and Humboldt Counties, Redwood National
contains not only the beautiful, awe-inspiring, tallest trees in the world, but vast prairies, wild coastline, deeply cut valleys, and ancient oak woodlands as well. It's also home to majestic herds of Roosevelt elk! See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3h853l2
- Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park
Established in 1927, Del Norte Coast Redwoods SP is approximately
50 percent old growth Coast Redwood and has eight miles of wild coastline. It's a foggy coastal rainforest consisting of dense forest, open meadows, magnificent ocean views, sandy beaches, and lively tidepools filled with mussels and barnacles, sea anemones and starfish. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3h853l2
- Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park
Because Jedediah is further inland and has no ocean access - and most visitors don't venture too far inland), this park is sparsely visited - think Waldon Pond privacy! You'll find quiet Redwood groves and peaceful meadows, abundant wildlife, summer swimming holes, and rhododendrons bursting with bloom in the Spring. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3h853l2
- Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground
Pfeiffer Big Sur campground is one of the most popular of the
Big Sur state parks campgrounds - people come here to enjoy the beautiful forests, the flower-filled meadows, the streams and rivers, the hiking and nature study that everyone finds so spectacular in Big Sur.
The Big Sur River runs through, and some of the campsites run along the river. Pfeiffer is open year-round for camping.
You'll find restrooms, showers, food service, and supplies available - even WiFi. There are exhibits and programs, hiking loops, nature walks, and swimming availble if you want to do more than just veg out. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/kpszjg
- ANDREW MOLERA STATE PARK CAMPGROUNDS
Andrew Molera is a primitive walk-in campground used mostly by young folk - backpackers, surfers, bicyclists, and such.
If you camp here, you'll park in a central lot, then schlepp your gear in about a half mile to a large meadow setting.
No reservations - it's first-come, first served only.
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/kpszjg
- Ventana Campground
Ventana Campground is popular for the privacy of its campsites. Located along Post Canyon and Post Creek, the camp is widely scattered through a dense Redwood forest, up and down side canyons, and along ridges. It's open year-round and reservations are needed.
Special Note: Ventana Campground - one of the most popular of Big Sur private campgrounds - is closed until further notice for renovations. Check their website link periodically for their re-opening announcement. In the meantime, here's what I know about them. See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3ccgmm4
- RIVERSIDE CAMPGROUND AND CABINS
Riverside offers tent camping sites with picnic tables and fire pits, RV sites with picnic tables and fire pits, and cabins in an idyllic setting amongst the Redwoods along the Big Sur River. And - get this! - they even offer on-site massages. How decadent is that!
This Big Sur private campground is open all year and you will need reservations.
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3ccgmm4
- Fernwood Resort
Fernwood Resort is another all-purpose compound with the added benefit of a motel, tavern, restaurant, and espresso bar. Located amongst the redwoods along the Big Sur River, it's open year-round, and reservations are necessary.
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3ccgmm4
- BIG SUR CAMPGROUND AND CABINS
Big Sur Campground is the perfect family campground compound with hot showers, store, laundry, and activities.
There's something for everyone at this
lovely example of Big Sur private campgrounds! It's in a Redwood forest, right along Big Sur River; I don't know where you'll find a more beautiful spot!
The facility is open all year and reservations are necessary.
See more at Discover Northern California: http://tinyurl.com/3ccgmm4
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