1. Home
  2. Campgrounds
  3. Idaho

California National Historic Trail

Explore the California trail to follow in the footsteps of over 250,000 emigrants who traveled to the gold fields and rich farmlands of California during the 1840s and 1850s-the greatest mass migration in American history. More than 1,000 miles of trail ruts and traces can still be seen across 10 states along this historic trail. In 1849, gold was discovered at Sutter's Fort near Sacramento, California, setting off a rush by miners and others seeking free land in California. By 1869, more than…

  • State: Idaho
  • Managed by: Bureau of Land Management
  • Coordinates: 42.55388889000005, -113.24472219999996

Nearby & related campgrounds

  • McClendon Spring Campground
  • Snake River Vista Recreation Site
  • Pipeline Campground
  • THOMPSON FLAT
  • Twin Lakes Campground (Sawtooth)
  • Lake Cleveland Campground - West Side
  • Appendicitis Hill Wilderness Study Area
  • Battle Creek Wild and Scenic River
  • Bear Den Butte Wilderness Study Area
  • Big Jacks Creek Wild and Scenic River
  • Black Butte Wilderness Study Area
  • Black Canyon (I) Wilderness Study Area
  • Black Canyon (II) Wilderness Study Area
  • Blackfoot River

Browse more

  • All campgrounds in Idaho

Frequently asked questions

Is California National Historic Trail reservable?

California National Historic Trail is primarily first-come, first-served. Use the availability view to gauge how busy it is before you go.

Where is California National Historic Trail?

California National Historic Trail is located in Idaho. See the map for its exact location and directions.

How do I book a campsite at California National Historic Trail?

Pick your dates on the availability calendar, then reserve through the official booking link. You can also set an alert and we'll notify you if a sold-out date opens up.

Check campsite availability