After weeks of planning the timing and duration of our trip, we departed on Wednesday, April 23. The weather was clear as we traveled to Folsom Lake State Recreation Area for a stay on Wednesday and Thursday nights. We had secured reservations for site 23 in Beals Point CG, which was pleasant unless site 22 became occupied. They also have a separate hookups CG. We managed to fit in a brief hike to view the lake and campgrounds, enjoying the late afternoon sunlight. Following a barbecue dinner, we relaxed by rewatching Game of Thrones.
On Thursday morning, John embarked on his planned bike ride while I engaged in some shopping before meeting him at Discovery Park. After lunch, we returned to the campsite where I focused on completing my daily steps and we settled in for the evening.
On Friday, we departed after stopping at REI, and proceeded to Coloma. We had reservations at American River Resort and were given site #66. Coloma has two private campgrounds; this one is tailored for rafters and has tent and cabin sites on the South Fork of the American River, while the other accommodates fourth graders visiting Marshall Gold Discovery State Park as part of their curriculum. Both campgrounds are excellent and located within walking distance of the park. We experienced intermittent rain over two days while hiking, observing historical artifacts, and enjoying lunch at the Argonaut. Because it is part of CA 4th grade curriculum there are a lot of interpretive information. For your information, a single ounce of gold can be stretched into a wire exceeding 40 miles in length.
On Sunday, we left the river canyon and drove to Chaw’se Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park. The park “preserves an outcropping of marbleized limestone with approximately 1,185 mortar holes — the largest collection of bedrock mortars in North America.” Site 12 posed some difficulty for entry, and it became apparent that backing in would have been preferable. Other sites may have been more suitable; however, the park staff indicated that this was the best site available. After setting up, we visited the grinding rock area, toured the visitor center, and hiked the North Trail. There was no rain in the afternoon. The day concluded with dinner, a walk to observe the sunset, followed by watching the end of season 4 of Game of Thrones.
After hiking the South Nature Interpretive Trail in the morning, we drove to Volcano for further exploration. It had been a considerable time since our last visit. The town features a bustling store, bar, and lunch establishment. We strolled through the area, appreciating its historical significance. Subsequently, we traveled to Sutter Creek to investigate further. Last time we had been here was NY’ Eve, 40 years ago. We walked around the town, admiring the charming downtown area and houses with well-maintained yards, concluding our visit with a late light lunch. Upon returning to camp, we entered the meadow and enjoyed the late afternoon sun. Dinner comprised shrimp tacos.
Late morning departure. Heading to Angels Camp and the fairgrounds. It’s a quick drive and we obtained a site for the two nights we wanted, as the campground closes on May 1st to prepare for the county fair and frog jumping contest. They have two weeks to get ready, and it appears well organized. The weather was clear, and the cost is $35 for full hookups. The downside is a rifle range located near the little league field adjacent to the campground. During our stay, we explored the fairgrounds, observing the animal pens, stage for the frog jumping contest, show area for the animals, beer gardens, and areas which will be occupied by rides, flower shows, food vendors, and attendees during the fair. There were many geese, raising curiosity about their activities during the fair time. We also visited the Angels Camp Museum with an extensive collection of local culture, definitely worth the visit. Had lunch at the Pickled Porch Cafe, walked around town and then visited Murphys. It was a calm two days and was interesting watching all the campers leave the campground as most of them were essential workers for PG&E. $96 at the other campground just down the street, FYI.
We encountered a slight change in our plans as hubby had to complete a job in our former hometown, necessitating a trip north. Our initial intention was to proceed southward towards Kings Canyon. Off we went to a campground in Red Bluff managed by the US Forest Service, known as Sycamore Grove, which is situated along the Sacramento River. This location allowed him to commute to his job site and also purchase groceries conveniently. The campground offers water and electric hookups but lacks a dump station. The camp hosts are excellent. We secured a three-night reservation without hookups for $32 at site 10. While he attended to his job, I spent the day cleaning the trailer, organizing our belongings, and exploring the campground area. We were joined by old friends for a delightful camp dinner under favorable weather conditions. During our stay, we also engaged in hiking, visited the Sacramento River Discovery Center, and enjoyed the pleasant weather along the river.
Sunday, May 4 was marked by unusually strong winds. Interestingly, it coincides with our trip to Europe exactly one year ago. Following a brief morning routine, we drove to MacArthur Burney Falls State Park, where reservations are not required before approximately May 15th. We arrived at the park around 1 PM, noting that while the day-use areas were bustling as usual, the campground was relatively quiet. We selected site 12, with only 31 sites available at that time. Despite the windy conditions, temperatures remained in the lower 70s. After establishing our campsite, dumping and having lunch, we paid for three nights’ stay, observed the falls, checked the WiFi (only available at the VC), walked part of the Rim Trail, and planned activities for the following two days.
During our stay, we hiked the Headwaters Trail, the Falls Loop Trail, and segments of the Pacific Crest Trail that traverse the park (only 2,649 miles to go). The trails showcased an array of wildflowers and an abundance of mosquitoes. Additionally, we visited Lake Britton, observing the osprey and eagles while enjoying refreshments.
We also revisited Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park for the third time. This park is accessible by boat and offers rustic camping facilities. We embarked on our kayaking venture at around 10:30 AM, aiming to explore the ancient fish traps. After approximately two hours, we successfully located them. The weather was perfect, devoid of wind. We had lunch at site 4, continued our exploration, and eventually returned to shore by 3 PM after further examining the area.
We reluctantly left Burney Falls and skipped another kayak trip on Lake Britton due to sore arms. We aimed to camp at Lake Almanor but found no open campgrounds. All seemed to be closed either because of past fires or tree work. After shopping in Chester, we stayed at Potato Patch USFS campground along Deer Creek. Only two other campers were present, and despite its proximity to the highway, it’s quiet with noticeable creek sounds. Site 21 was easy to access, perfect for a one night.
In the morning, we had breakfast and headed to Lake Oroville SRA, a place we visited in 2019 and 2018. We reserved site #11 in Loafer Creek Coyote Campground for three nights starting Thursday, May 8. The campground was mostly empty with only tent campers due to high temperatures; RVs were in the hookup campground. We preferred solar energy and opened all windows. After setting up, we drove to the dam, launch area, and spillway. This had been on hubby’s bucket list since the main spillway of the dam was damaged in 2017 and more than 180,000 were evacuated.
On Friday morning, we went to Table Mountain Ecological Reserve. This visit was less crowded compared to the super bloom period we saw in 2019. We saw various flowers and hiked to Ravine Falls and Phantom Falls. Both falls are expected to dry soon due to the weather. After viewing the falls and having a snack, we returned to the parking lot. Our hike lasted from 9:21 to 12:30, followed by lunch at Oroville Tacos.
On Saturday morning, after showers and breakfast, we explored the older part of Oroville, which coincided with Feather Fiesta Days. Despite the heat, we enjoyed lunch at Pho Noodle House, viewed numerous vendors, and an extensive car show.
On Sunday morning, we traveled to Nevada City, coinciding with Mother’s Day. We had lunch on the road and arrived at the Inn Town Campground around 1:30 PM. Our designated spot was Site 2, which was easily accessible. We then visited the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad museum, right outside the campground, where we participated in their Second Sunday Steam-up event and experienced a train ride and the museum
On Monday morning, we hiked into Nevada City despite the light rain. The sun appeared occasionally, allowing us to enjoy lunch at the Nevada City Cafe and explore the historic houses and businesses. We followed the Miners Trail, which goes under the freeway, back to camp. That evening, we drove to Meadow Vista for dinner with relatives.
On Tuesday, May 13, our goal was to hike the Tribute Trail. Though it remained overcast with possible rain, we embarked on the trail along Deer Creek, featuring the Nisenan Tribute Bridge, a suspension bridge. The route passes through both urban and rural areas, encompassing town and forest. The hike was scenic and uncrowded, with the bridge being a notable work of art. After hiking, we had lunch at Taco Loco taqueria and visited the Nevada City Chocolate Shoppe for treats.
That evening we contemplated whether to head home or stay another night elsewhere. Ultimately, we decided to return home, concluding the trip after traveling 922 miles, spending 21 nights, and visiting 9 campgrounds.
