Local Attractions
Get away and enjoy the beauty of God's Creation!
Most of our campers plan to spend their time at GVC. However, there are a number of local attractions that can provide interesting opportunities to spend a few hours exploring the Mother Lode.
Many towns along Highway 49 were built during the California Gold Rush. You and your group may enjoy Historic Sutter Creek or Jackson.
Black Chasm Cavern National Natural Landmark
Location: 10 minute drive from camp.
About: 50-minute cavern tours are available daily from 9am - 5pm May - October, and from 10am - 4pm November - April. Visit the website.
Kirkwood Mountain Resort
Location: 1 hour drive from camp
About: Kirkwood is a fantastic day trip destination. Home to some of the best skiing in North America in the winter and great summer hiking, fishing, and mountain biking. Kirkwood is a great escape not far from camp. For more information on what Kirkwood has to offer click here.
Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park
Location: 10 minute drive from camp
About: The park was created in 1968 and preserves a great outcropping of marbleized limestone with some 1,185 mortar holes -- the largest collection of bedrock mortars in North America. Visit the website.
Calaveras Big Trees
Location: 1 ½ hours drive from camp
About: Calaveras Big Trees is beautiful place to visit and learn about their giant Sierra Redwood Trees. This is a beautiful park and is both educational and a great opportunity to see and explore more of God’s creation. Visit their website for more information.
Kennedy Gold Mine
Location: 30 minute drive from camp
About: The Kennedy Gold Mine is a thriving historical attraction, In the late 1850s, Andrew Kennedy discovered gold in an outcropping of quartz. The Mine tours, which are guided by volunteers, take visitors up and down the hills on the property. Visit their website.
Local Lakes
If your group wants to get away for the day and spend some time on the water there are several lakes near by that provide the perfect opportunity to do just that. Each has its own unique features and atmosphere so check out their websites to see which will be best for your group.
Lake Camanche
Pardee Lake
Bear River Lake
Silver Lake
Local Theaters
There are several theaters located near by that will provide the perfect opportunity to do just that. Volcano Theatre Company, Sutter Creek Theatre, and Main Street Theatre Works in Jackson are all within a 20 minute drive of camp. Be sure to contact these theaters ahead of time to make arrangements to enjoy a show.
If you have questions about any of these great adventures or are interested in finding other exciting outings in the area please contact us. With any of these trips we are happy to provide a sack lunch or dinner for your group to enjoy.
"This is my second year at Golden Valley Camp. I love the place because its so relaxing.You can really get close to God."