However you want to spend your weekend getaway at the Inn Town Campground, there are activities for everyone. So, whether you’re spending a weekend swimming at the South Yuba River or attending one of the many summer festivals in Nevada City, we’re excited for you to have your home base be the campground. Our office will have all the information you need for family friendly hiking, swimming, bike riding, fishing, and more.
If you’re looking for more information on local city and county parks our top picks are:
State Parks Near Nevada City
Nevada City, California is surrounded by a number of state parks that offer a variety of recreational activities, historical sites, and natural beauty. Here are some notable state parks near Nevada City:
1. Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park
- Location: Approximately 16 miles northeast of Nevada City.
- Highlights: This park preserves the site of California’s largest hydraulic mining operation. Visitors can explore the historic town of North Bloomfield, view exhibits on mining history, and hike through scenic trails.
- Activities: Hiking, picnicking, exploring historic buildings, and gold panning.
2. South Yuba River State Park
- Location: Just a few miles northwest of Nevada City.
- Highlights: This park features the beautiful South Yuba River and several historic bridges, including the iconic covered bridge at Bridgeport. The river is known for its emerald pools and smooth granite boulders.
- Activities: Swimming, hiking, fishing, gold panning, and picnicking.
3. Empire Mine State Historic Park
- Location: About 8 miles south of Nevada City, in Grass Valley.
- Highlights: The park includes the site of one of California’s oldest, largest, and most prosperous gold mines. Visitors can tour the mine grounds, the restored gardens, and the historic Empire Cottage.
- Activities: Guided tours, hiking, picnicking, and exploring the visitor center and museum.
4. Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
- Location: Approximately 50 miles southwest of Nevada City, in Coloma.
- Highlights: This is the site where James Marshall first discovered gold in 1848, leading to the California Gold Rush. The park includes a museum, historic buildings, and monuments.
- Activities: Gold panning, exploring historical exhibits, hiking, and picnicking.
5. Lake Oroville State Recreation Area
- Location: About 45 miles northwest of Nevada City.
- Highlights: This area features Lake Oroville, which is one of California’s largest reservoirs. It’s a popular destination for boating, fishing, and water sports.
- Activities: Boating, fishing, swimming, camping, hiking, and picnicking.
6. Auburn State Recreation Area
- Location: Approximately 30 miles south of Nevada City, near the town of Auburn.
- Highlights: This recreation area covers over 40 miles of the North and Middle Forks of the American River. It is a popular spot for whitewater rafting and kayaking.
- Activities: Rafting, kayaking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and mountain biking.
These state parks provide a diverse array of outdoor activities and historical exploration opportunities, making them ideal destinations for visitors staying in or near Nevada City.
