Welcome to
Mariposa County
Welcome to One of California's Most Legendary
Adventure Destinations.
ā
Mariposa County is where Gold Rush history meets outdoor adventure. Spend the day panning for gold, hiking to waterfalls, exploring historic mining towns, camping under the stars, or visiting museums that bring California's past to life.
Whether you're a first-time explorer or a lifelong adventurer, Mariposa offers something for every member of the family.
History Corner
ā
The California "Gold Rush"
Mariposa County played a significant role in California's Gold Rush. During the late 1840s and early 1850s, thousands of miners traveled to this region in search of fortune, helping shape the communities and history that visitors can still experience today.
ā
The California Gold Rush
ā
In 1848, the discovery of gold at Sutter's Mill sparked one of the greatest migrations in American history. Within months, hopeful miners from around the world poured into California, searching for fortune in its rivers and mountain streams. By 1849, the movement had become so widespread that these adventurous pioneers became known as the famous "49ers."
ā
Mariposa County quickly emerged as one of the heartbeats of the California Gold Rush. Rich gold deposits along the Merced River and surrounding mountain streams attracted thousands of miners, leading to the creation of bustling mining camps, thriving towns, and a legacy that still defines the region today.
ā
Although the massive gold rush has long since passed, the adventure continues. Visitors can still pan for real gold in many public areas, walk the streets of historic mining towns, explore museums filled with authentic Gold Rush artifacts, and stand in the very places where California's history was written.
ā
Today, Mariposa County offers more than a glimpse into the past—it offers the chance to experience it. Whether you're searching for your first gold flake, exploring a historic ghost town, or introducing your children to California's remarkable history, every adventure helps keep the spirit of the Gold Rush alive.
ā
The adventure didn't end in 1849—it just became yours to discover.
ā
Did You Know?
ā
Fun facts:
-
Mariposa means "butterfly" in Spanish.
-
Some of California's largest gold specimens came from the Mother Lode region.
-
The county is a gateway to Yosemite.
ā
ā
First Book Is
in Progress!
Download the "some" color pages to start your adventure:
Sample of Book Pages 1-4,
Complete Book Coming Soon!
California Adventure Mission Books — Coming Soon!
ā
The California Adventure Mission Books will soon be available through our junior adventurers’ website, "California Adventure Passport."
ā
Parents or legal guardians with an active paid subscription may access and obtain the mission books for use per paid subscription for one child. Books can also be purchased on Teacher Pay Teacher's Website.
Each book will include fun, educational challenges designed to help young explorers discover California’s history, nature, outdoor recreation, and hidden treasures.
ā
All California Adventure Passport mission books, activities, artwork, and written content are protected by copyright. They are provided for the personal use of the registered subscriber and may not be copied, shared, resold, mass-produced, uploaded to other websites, or distributed without written permission.
ā
One Subscription. One Junior Explorer. Adventures Across California.
ā Featured Gold Adventure (FREE)
Why Families Love Briceburg Recreation Area?
ā
Nestled along the beautiful Merced River, Briceburg Recreation Area is one of California's most popular destinations for families looking to experience the excitement of the Gold Rush. With easy river access, breathtaking mountain scenery, and a rich mining history, it's the perfect place to introduce children to the adventure of gold panning.
ā
Spend the day searching for real gold, cooling off in the river's refreshing swimming holes, enjoying a picnic beneath towering pine trees, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it's your child's first gold flake or simply a day spent exploring the outdoors together, Briceburg offers an unforgettable adventure for explorers of all ages.
ā
Why You'll Love It
-
š„ One of California's most popular public gold panning destinations
-
šØš©š§š¦ Perfect for families and first-time prospectors
-
š° Opportunity to find real flour gold, fine flakes, and small pickers
-
š Beautiful Merced River with scenic swimming holes
-
š Nearby campgrounds for weekend adventures
-
šø Incredible photography and wildlife viewing opportunities
-
š² Easy access to hiking, picnicking, and outdoor recreation
-
š Rich California Gold Rush history just minutes from historic Mariposa
Mariposa County Passport Challenge
ā
Earn Your
Bronze Explorer Badge Sticker
Complete all (5 family adventure missions) in Mariposa County
to earn your official Bronze Explorer Badge Sticker.
Your Five Adventure Missions:
ā
šø Merced River Family Photo
Take a family photo beside the Merced River.
ā
š„ Pan for Gold
Try gold panning at a location where prospecting is legally permitted.
ā
š Visit a Museum
Explore a Mariposa County museum and learn about the area’s mining, natural, or cultural history.
ā
š„¾ Hike One Mile or More
Complete a trail that is at least one mile long.
ā
š Visit a Waterfall
Visit and photograph a waterfall in or near Mariposa County.
ā
How to Claim Your Sticker?
ā
After completing all five missions, email your adventure log with:
-
The date and location of each completed activity
-
One photo showing each completed activity
-
Proof of purchase or registration for any paid activity, when required
-
The paid member’s full name
-
The mailing address where the sticker should be sent
-
ā
Please use the email subject: Bronze Explorer Sticker
If you want to be posted on the website publicly by obtaining the badge competition, please give written permission to add information (specifics of what to add) to share in public viewing. Must be 18+ or older to upload photos and information. If family is participating, need signature from parent/guardian to upload family photo.
Email: cagolddiggersmeetup@gmail.com
ā
ā
ā
Mariposa County Bronze Explorer
Challenge Sticker Rulesā
ā
One Bronze Explorer Badge Sticker is mailed for each active paid website member who completes the challenge.
Each paid member must submit their own completed adventure log and supporting photos. Family members who are not paid members may participate in the activities, but only one sticker is provided per paid membership.
All activities must be completed safely, legally, and in areas open to the public. Always check current trail conditions, weather, water conditions, fire restrictions, property boundaries, and prospecting regulations before visiting.āā
Complete the Missions. Share the Adventure. Earn the Badge.
Your Mariposa County adventure is waiting!
Join the Adventure.
Explore More of California
ā
ā
Become a member and unlock the CA Adventure Passport, your guide to exciting outdoor challenges and hidden treasures across Northern, Central, and Southern California.
ā
Each county passport features specially selected adventures such as gold panning, rockhounding, hiking, camping, waterfalls, museums, ghost towns, and family-friendly destinations. Complete the challenges, document your journeys, earn collectible explorer badge stickers, and build a lasting record of your California adventures.
ā
Your membership gives you access to more county challenges, exclusive adventure resources, member rewards, and new places to explore throughout the state.
One Membership. More Counties. More Adventures. More Memories.
š Members Unlock
Complete Mariposa Adventure Guide
ā
ā
ā
Members Receive:
ā Complete Interactive Maps for "Featured Counties"
in all parts of California
ā Information on Local Community Clubs & Events
ā Calendar of Club Events & Google Meet Guests
ā Adventure Partner Finder & Members Access
ā Camping Guide, Museum/ State Park Guide
ā Ghost Town Hunts & Events
ā Family Itinerary Downloads
ā Interactive Maps for Each Featured County
ā Passport Challenges
āāā
ā
One Membership. Unlimited Adventures.
ā
Plus...
Members Get to Unlock
"Featured Counties" in Northern, Central & Southern California
$50.00 a Year is a Deal!
Plus Obtain a Monthly Itinerary to a "Special Place" in California for a Weekend Trip that is Family Approved and Verified!
Adventure Photo Gallery
Pictures Coming Soon...