California is so vast with such different and beautiful regions. While we love living in coastal California, the San Francisco Bay Area prices and crowds can be tiring. We've loved every opportunity we've had thus far to go inland and explore! Calaveras County in the Sierra Nevada foothillswas new to both of us and was chosen based on it's relatively close proximity to the Bay Area. A 2.5 hour drive from our home meant it would be a fulfilling day trip. The towns of Angels Camp and Murphys were on our list for the day, and some background research told us they were both gold country settlements. I loved my solo trip to Auburn, CA last year, and Calaveras County felt like a similar trip, though a little bit closer.
Angels Camp on the map
Angels Camp was the perfect first stop for about an hour. There was a well-stocked visitors center and a helpful free walking guide of the main street. Mark Twain's visit to the town was well-publicized and a friendly town resident stopped us on our walking tour to tell us more about Twain and to be sure to see this mural.
The creek running through Angels Camp was beautiful and the weather was perfect. With the exception of the recent wildfires, the shoulder seasons of fall and spring in California are favorable and so comfortable.
Angels Camp has some historic buildings and a great small town feel.
Murphys was a short 15 minutes away and seemed to be built much more around tourism. There appeared to be 20+ tasting rooms on the long main street and plenty of day visitors like us. We enjoyed a delicious lunch and found the weekly farmers market in full swing!
The gold rush history of the town was well documented throughout the main street. We found plenty of antique shops, independent businesses, and friendly shop owners wanting to talk.
We enjoyed another great visitors center in Murphys, a nice wine tasting with a coupon from the visitors center, a fun ice cream shop, and a very charming and positive experience in Murphys.
If you find yourself in the Sierra Nevada foothills, or even on the coast of California, a visit to these nice towns will be worth your time for some strolling and relaxation. 😎
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