Quirky Calaveras
From jumping frogs to jackalopes, the world’s most-tattooed man, and caverns that moan eerily when it rains
Story and photos by Laurie McAndish King
Calaveras County, California, may be best known for its jumping frogs, and that’s definitely a reason to visit — especially the third weekend in May when the annual Jumping Frog Jubilee attracts contestants from around the world. The county is also known for its wholesome outdoor activities: hiking, biking, camping, rafting, skiing, snowshoeing…
But there’s another side of Calaveras — a quirky side — with gigantic gold nuggets, a tattooed strongman, jackalopes, time travel, echoing caverns, and the world’s tallest trees. You won’t want to miss these quirky delights when you visit.
Find Gold in Them Thar Hills
Let’s start where dreamers always do: with those big, sparkly nuggets. There’s still gold in Calaveras County, even though miners have been pulling it out for the past 150 years. Heavy rain or snow and the accompanying erosion periodically expose new flecks, specks, nuggets, and even veins of gold.
Check out a replica of “the largest single piece of gold found in the Gold Rush” at the Angels Camp Museum, which offers…
