1901 Map of Big Trees

Evidence of the California Gold Rush era remains visible through numerous mining operations and hydraulic camps concentrated in the southwest corner near Columbia. Features such as Riverside Mine, Keltz Mine, and American Camp reflect an economy deeply tied to the canyon floors. Historical river crossings, including the Abbott Ferry and Parrott Ferry, show how early settlers navigated the steep terrain between the Mother Lode and the high timber country of the Stanislaus National Forest.