Communities

Pinecrest, California is a scenic alpine community centered around Pinecrest Lake in the Stanislaus National Forest, just northeast of Twain Harte. A favorite year-round destination, Pinecrest offers swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking in the summer, with nearby Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort providing skiing and snowboarding in the winter. The area is home to a popular campground, an outdoor amphitheater, and a seasonal general store and café, making it a classic mountain getaway. Surrounded by towering pines and crisp mountain air, Pinecrest is ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape in the Sierra Nevada.

Strawberry, California is a small mountain community located along Highway 108 in Tuolumne County, nestled beside the South Fork of the Stanislaus River. Known for its rustic cabins, scenic river views, and easy access to outdoor recreation, Strawberry is a peaceful getaway spot for fishing, hiking, and relaxing by the water. Just a few miles from Pinecrest Lake and Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort, it serves as a quiet retreat with close proximity to some of the Sierra’s most popular destinations. With its laid-back charm and natural beauty, Strawberry offers a true mountain escape.

Cold Springs, California is a small mountain community located along Highway 108 in Tuolumne County, just minutes from Pinecrest Lake and Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort. Surrounded by towering pines and fresh mountain air, Cold Springs serves as a quiet basecamp for outdoor adventures year-round, including hiking, fishing, skiing, and snow play. The area features cozy cabins, vacation rentals, and a long-standing general store that serves locals and visitors alike. With its peaceful setting and close proximity to popular Sierra destinations, Cold Springs is a favorite stop for those seeking a relaxing retreat in the high country.

Twain Harte, California is a charming mountain community nestled among the pines of the Central Sierra Nevada in Tuolumne County. Named after authors Mark Twain and Bret Harte, the town blends rustic character with a welcoming, family-friendly vibe. Known for its walkable downtown, local shops, summer concerts, and seasonal events, Twain Harte is a popular destination for both visitors and full-time residents. Surrounded by lakes, trails, and forestland, it offers easy access to outdoor recreation while maintaining the peaceful atmosphere of a small mountain town.

Sugar Pine is a quiet residential community tucked in the forest along Highway 108, just minutes from Twain Harte and Pinecrest. It offers a serene setting with easy access to lakes, hiking, and mountain recreation. Ideal for vacation homes or year-round living, Sugar Pine combines rustic charm with modern convenience.

Miwuk Village is a friendly mountain community with rich local history and a laid-back lifestyle. Surrounded by towering pines, it’s a peaceful basecamp for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and winter sports. Affordable homes and a close-knit vibe make Miwuk Village a hidden gem in the Sierra foothills.

Sierra Village is a small, forested community located along Highway 108, offering easy access to Pinecrest, Dodge Ridge, and other Sierra attractions. Known for its cozy cabins and vacation homes, it’s a perfect retreat for nature lovers. Residents enjoy the quiet mountain atmosphere while staying close to nearby amenities.

Long Barn is a historic mountain town known for its ice skating rink and proximity to Pinecrest and Strawberry. With scenic surroundings and a relaxed pace, it’s a great spot for vacation homes or year-round mountain living. Long Barn offers rustic charm and easy access to both summer and winter outdoor adventures.

Soulsbyville is a historic Gold Rush-era town with a strong sense of community and rich heritage. Located just off Highway 108, it offers a convenient blend of rural charm and modern amenities. With larger properties and family-friendly neighborhoods, Soulsbyville is ideal for those seeking a quiet lifestyle close to Sonora and mountain recreation.

Sonora, California is a historic Gold Rush town nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills and serves as the county seat of Tuolumne County. Founded in 1848 by miners from Sonora, Mexico, the city retains its Old West charm with a vibrant downtown full of 19th-century architecture, shops, galleries, restaurants, and theaters. With just over 5,000 residents, Sonora is a welcoming small town and a hub for tourism, outdoor adventure, and local culture. It’s also a gateway to nearby attractions like Columbia State Historic Park, Railtown 1897, and Yosemite National Park.

Jamestown, California is a historic Gold Country town located just southwest of Sonora in Tuolumne County. Established during the 1849 Gold Rush, Jamestown was the site of the first gold discovery in the county and still showcases its rich mining heritage through preserved buildings, antique shops, and historic saloons. The town is home to Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, where visitors can ride vintage steam trains and explore a working roundhouse featured in numerous Hollywood films. With its authentic charm, walkable main street, and ties to California’s railroad and gold mining past, Jamestown offers a unique and immersive step back in time.

Columbia, California is a preserved Gold Rush town located in the heart of Tuolumne County and designated as Columbia State Historic Park. Once one of the richest gold-producing towns in the state, Columbia now operates as a living history museum, where visitors can stroll along dirt streets, ride in horse-drawn carriages, pan for gold, and interact with costumed interpreters. The town’s original brick buildings house shops, saloons, and exhibits that reflect life in the 1850s. With its immersive atmosphere and educational experiences, Columbia offers an authentic glimpse into California’s Gold Rush era.