Angels Camp is best known as the site of the Jumping Frog Contest, made famous by Mark Twain in his short story “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras.” Still, it is also home to one of the most picturesque historic downtowns in California’s Gold Country, stunning Sierra Foothills scenery, boutique shops, an excellent museum, and many other fantastic places.
It is highly recommended since it offers many well-known sites, such as California Caverns and the Angels Camp City Museum.
Some of the nicest and most enjoyable places in Angels Camp are listed in this article.
Things to Do in Angels Camp, CA
1. Angels Mexican Kitchen
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Angels Mexican Kitchen is a great place to eat at Angels Camp if you’re in the mood for delectable food.
This eatery is well-known for its fresh and piping-hot daily servings of authentic Mexican food.
Eat one of the renowned burritos, tacos, or quesadillas at this eatery before seeing Angels Camp’s attractions.
The restaurant is close to Angels Camp landmarks, including the historic downtown, Greenhorn Creek Resort, and the Angels Camp City Museum.
Location: 206 N Main St, Angels Camp, CA 95222, United States
2. Angels Camp Farmers Market
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This farmer’s market in Angels Camp, CA, is popularly known as “Fresh Fridays” and offers the best locally grown products, including fruits, vegetables, artisanal foods, and freshly baked goods.
Additionally, you may purchase locally made goods, handicrafts, and other unique and intriguing items.
The live music performances by neighborhood bands also contribute to the vibrant ambiance at the Angels Camp Farmer’s Market.
Every Friday in Utica Park, the Angels Camp Farmer’s Market is open from June through September.
3. Calaveras Grape Stomp Competition
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Murphy’s Locals participate in the Calaveras Grape Stomp Competition on the first Saturday of the month.
The celebration coincides with the Gold Rush Street Faire, which takes place in Murphy, a village 8.3 miles or a 10-minute drive north of Angels Camp.
The grape stomp competition’s winner duo receives fantastic rewards. While watching is enjoyable, participating in the tournament would be even better.
After the grape-stomping contest, you may attend the street festival that showcases Murphy’s top wines.
4. Calaveras Big Trees State Park
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A massive sequoia tree that is 3,200 years old may be seen in the Calaveras Big Trees State Park.
This scenic spot is a nature preserve for the massive sequoia trees and a public outdoor leisure area 23 miles north of Angels Camp.
This state park was created primarily to be easily accessible, entertaining, and open year-round.
While in awe of the enormous sequoia trees, you may trek along the area’s picturesque paths and see local animals.
Location: 1170 CA-4, Arnold, CA 95223, United States
5. Moaning Cavern Adventure Park
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The lovely Moaning Cavern Adventure Park is around 11 miles from Angels Camp.
There is a large cavern to explore at this natural site near Vallecito, California. This beautiful cavern is ideal for a caving excursion.
Beautiful limestone walls, stalactite, and stalagmite formations will draw you near. If you prefer a more thrilling excursion, you may participate in the rappelling activities or attempt the zip line.
Location: 5350 Moaning Cave Rd, Vallecito, CA 95251, United States
6. New Melones Lake
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The New Melones Lake is tucked away on the southernmost tip of Angels Camp. This scenic area is 7.0 miles or a 13-minute drive south of Angels Camp.
One of California’s largest water reservoirs, the New Melone Lake, provides a wonderful lakefront perspective.
A full-service marina, an RV park, a leisure area, a museum, and a tourist center are all available at New Melones Lake.
In the end, New Melones Lake is the ideal outdoor location for riding, hiking, fishing, and animal-watching activities.
Location: 6503 Glory Hole Rd, Angels Camp, CA 95222, United States
7. Calaveras Jumping Frog
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Since 1928, there has been a Mark Twain-inspired community celebration. People from around Calaveras County gather at Angels Camp for the event on the third weekend of May.
The celebrated jumping frog of Calaveras County by Mark Twain served as the basis for the whole event in Angels Camp, CA.
The celebration is still held today to honor the Calaveras heritage and remember the tale that Twain created back in his prime.
The festival’s primary attraction is the frog jumping competition, where competitors may train their bullfrogs to leap a specific distance.
Along with this activity, other food booths, entertainment, and other events are scheduled for the celebrations.
Location: 2465 Gunclub Rd, Angels Camp, CA 95222, United States
8. Angels Camp City Museum
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Start your exploration of the town with the Angels Camp City Museum. The finest spot to learn about the intricate past of the town is there.
You may learn a lot of fascinating information about the California Gold Rush at this museum in particular.
The more than three-acre museum, previously the Angels Mine, which was in operation in the 1850s, will undoubtedly keep you occupied for the entire day as you explore and learn about the past.
The entire museum is spread among four structures. The historic Carriage House includes a sizable collection of relics, antique wagons, furniture, paintings, and sculptures.
Location: 753 S Main St, Angels Camp, CA 95222, United States
9. Greenhorn Creek Resort
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Despite its small-town look, Angels Camp is home to the Greenhorn Creek Resort, a stunning, world-class golf course.
Robert Trent Jones Jr.’s imaginative genius is evident in the creation of this championship golf course. Don’t be afraid; this golf course welcomes players of all ability levels.
The stunning view of the wooded regions and rolling hills of Calaveras County is among the top attractions at this location, in addition to golf.
The CAMPS Restaurant, a country club restaurant, is another reason people frequent the Greenhorn Creek Resort.
Golfers and visitors may enjoy its delectable comfort cuisine, and its cellar area also offers a wonderful range of fine wines.
Location: 711 McCauley Ranch Rd, Angels Camp, CA 95222.
10. Ironstone Vineyards In Angels Camp
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In addition to having played a significant role in the Gold Rush, Calaveras County is also home to some of California’s top vineyards.
The Ironstone Vineyards near Angels Camp is one of the must-see wineries in Calaveras County. The entire vineyard extends over the towns of Murphys and Angels Camp.
The tasting area at Ironstone Vineyards, tucked away in a lovely garden, features some of the greatest and most prestigious wines.
You may begin your wine tour in Calaveras County at the Ironstone Vineyards.
Location: 1184 Church St, Angels Camp, CA 95222.
11. Visit the Historic The Angels Hotel
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This modest yet attractive motel in Angels Camp gained notoriety thanks to Mark Twain.
He lived at the Angels Hotel during his three-month stay in the city when he composed his well-known short story.
Twain was inspired to write the tale after hearing it personally from the locals while he was there.
Originally constructed in 1851 as a canvas tent, Angels Hotel later evolved into the structure it is today.
The Angels Hotel has been added to the National Register of Historic Places to preserve its tradition and history.
The hotel is no longer open but serves as a location to reflect on the past.
Location: 1287 S Main St, Angels Camp, CA 95222, United States
12. Mark Twain Wild West Festival
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Every October, the Mark Twain Wild West Festival honors Mark Twain’s significance to the history of the California Gold Rush.
The event showcases Angels Camp’s history and Old-Western culture via vibrant costumes, delectable cuisine, and fun activities.
This event is the ideal opportunity to discover more about Angels Camp’s past while having a good time.
13. Utica Park
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Utica Park is a good place to go if you’re searching for some outdoor space in Angels Camp. It is the only outdoor leisure space in the community where you may cycle, jog, or stroll in the mornings or afternoons.
The town’s farmer’s market, which runs from June through September, is also held at Utica Park.
Most residents of Angels Camp spend their weekends picnicking and spending time with their families in this neighborhood park.
The park offers a playground in addition to the picnic area and other features that make it a good neighborhood park.
Location: 1055-933 S Main St, Angels Camp, CA 95222, United States.
14. Calaveras Visitors Bureau
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It would be preferable if you went to the Calaveras Visitors Bureau if you intended to travel further afield in Calaveras County.
It is the greatest location for all the best and most highly recommended tourist destinations in and around Angels Camp and Calaveras County, including restaurants, bars, and shopping.
The personnel at the Calaveras Visitors Bureau will cheerfully respond to your inquiries and be happy to give you a map of the whole county and its attractions.
Visit the Calaveras Visitors Bureau before you outline your experience in Calaveras County.
Location: 753 South Main St, Angels Camp, CA 95222.
15. Historic Downtown Angels Camp
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Along with the museum, Angels Camp’s historic downtown is a great place to learn about the town’s past while dining and shopping to your heart.
You may observe Old-Western style architecture on the buildings along the street in the Historic Downtown Angels Camp.
The town’s stores, eateries, and service facilities are currently housed in these structures. You may learn more about the greatest features of the community by exploring this region.
Numerous stores selling antiques, handicrafts, art, apparel, and food are available to browse. Additionally, you may purchase numerous Mark Twain-related items.
You may stop by Art on Main, the Arnold Independence Day Parade, or Sierra in the historic downtown of Angels Camp.
Festival of Nevada Arts & Crafts, Middleton’s Gold Crown Hallmark, Firefall Jewelers Valley Springs, Brownell Ceramics, Ebbetts Pass Sporting Goods.
Location: S Main St & Birds Way, Angels Camp, CA 95222, United States