A Gold Rush eh......

Barkerville is a ghost town that never was. Someone has always lived there since Billy Barker struck gold in 1861. Men  travelled the long journey, packing their mining supplies on their backs to the edge of the Cariboo Mountains. Within a few years it was the largest city west of Chicago and north of San Fransisco.

In 1958 the government decided to restore it and make it a park. Now you can even sleep in the town in a historical hotel or bed and breakfast. Stop by the General Store or eat at the Chinese Restaurant.( I honestly had the best chinese food I have ever eaten there.) Go for a show at the theater or pan for gold, this town still has it all!

When I was there we were able to camp right outside the cemetery which made the trip even more eerie. There are still campsites within walking distance but no power. A short drive away is Cariboo Joy's Campground , there are full hook ups and you can even buy your own Gold Claim and learn how to pan for gold.

I would consider packing for cool weather. The high can be 32c but its not often that hot. Make sure you stay up to enjoy the stars. Plan to go in August when the meteor showers are on. And make sure you bring some bug spray.

Helpful links:

• Cariboo Joy
• Offical Barkerville page

A volcano made that?

Devils Post pile is located in East California and you have to see it to believe it. This rock formation was formed from lava around 100,000 years ago. The basalt columns are 2-3.5 feet in diameter and some stand 60ft high.

The top looks like its tile!

Rainbows falls is just as beautiful standing over 101 ft tall.

You can park overnight in the hikers parking lot for free, but make sure you leave the trailer 12 miles back at June Lake. The park is closed from October to June so make sure you check the National Park Service website before you travel.

Full Service Campsites:

Golden Pine RV Park    760-648-7473

June Lake RV Park