Columbia is a census-designated place (CDP) located in the Sierra Nevada foothills in Tuolumne County, California, United States. It was founded as a boomtown in 1850 when gold was found during the California Gold Rush , and was known as the "Gem of the Southern Mines ."

Conveniently located off of Highway 49, Columbia, "Gem of the Southern Mines," is a small town with a significant history. Home to Columbia State Historic Park, a living, breathing Gold Rush town.

Columbia is located in the Sierra Nevada foothills and enjoys a relatively mild climate. At an elevation of 2100 feet, the town is above the valley fog line and below the snow line making it an ideal destination year-round.

Columbia is a former California Gold Rush boomtown located in the Sierra Nevada foothills. The central portion of the town is preserved as a California state historic park and a National Historic Landmark that preserves the original, gold-rush-town flavor of the town, once dubbed the "Gem of the Southern Mines."

Things to Do in Columbia, California: See Tripadvisor's 1,736 traveler reviews and photos of Columbia tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in February. We have reviews of the best places to see in Columbia. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

Come discover Columbia, "Gem of the Southern Mines", and explore the rich history of this charming California Gold Rush town. Businesses and park exhibits are open year-round, seven days a week. Columbia also hosts several living history demonstrations, school programs, and special events throughout the year.

Columbia is a census-designated place located in the Sierra Nevada foothills in Tuolumne County, California, United States. It was founded as a boomtown in 1850 when gold was found during the California Gold Rush, and was known as the "Gem of the Southern Mines."

3 days ago · Welcome to Columbia State Historic Park. The California Gold Rush drew prospectors to Columbia from around the world. Columbia was once known as the "Gem of the Southern Mines," and by 1853, was one of the largest cities in California.

Dec 27, 2024 · Bring the whole family and visit the city and discover the wonderful things to do in Columbia, California! Experience the Gold Rush at Columbia State Historic Park. Michael Vi / Shutterstock.com. If you’re looking for an ideal family getaway, Columbia State Historic Park is the best place to go.

Jul 15, 2020 · Located in the heart of the California Mother Lode, Columbia State Historic Park is a living gold rush town featuring the largest single collection of gold rush-era structures in the entire state. At the peak of the Gold Rush, Columbia was California’s second-largest city (second to San Francisco).