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In the Sierra Nevada foothills west of Plymouth is Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park. It’s named for the bedrock mortar holes carved into marbleized limestone used by indigenous peoples to grind acorns from the surrounding oak forest. Campers can reserve traditional bark houses in the park for a primitive camping experience with a historical connection. Indian Grinding Rock also has overnight campsites for tents and RVs with firepits, picnic tables, and token-operated hot showers for a refresh after a day of exploring Chaw’se Regional Indian Museum.
After gold was discovered by James W. Marshall in 1848, people flocked to the region resulting in the historic Gold Rush. Memorializing the site on Nisenan peoples’ land, campers at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park can pan for American River gold and see important Gold Rush sites on ranger-led Gold Discovery Tours. Hike and picnic on the park grounds while staying at tent or RV campsites with full hookups at privately owned campgrounds nearby. Or check out the area’s cabin and glamping rentals, some fully furnished with queen-sized beds.
Plymouth’s elevation gives it warm summers and cold winters with rare snowfall. The higher latitudes and cool ocean currents result in a Mediterranean-like climate, with lots of clear, sunny days year-round. Summer highs can exceed 90°F, but most summer days average 72°F at their warmest. Winter temperatures usually range from 32°F to 64°F.