For more information and updates on programs, please check the black sandwich boards by the Visitor Center and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. All programs are free with entrance fee ($10/vehicle) and do not require a reservation.
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Enjoy the beauty and grandeur of the park while learning about why this place is so special!
Coming in the winter-spring? Guided hikes through the North Grove are offered Saturdays at 11:30 a.m year-round. This 1.5 to 2 hour hike is free with your paid admission to the park. Grab some water and meet at the North Grove trailhead by the Visitor Center. Please use the restrooms at the trailhead as there are none on the trail. In the event we have enough snow in the park, this will be a snowshoe hike. Some snowshoes are available for use on a first come, first served basis at the guided hike. For snowshoeing at other times, snowshoes are available for rent in the town of Arnold located three miles west on Highway 4.
Come by Jack Knight Hall 12:00pm - 3:00pm December 20th - January 4th, 2025 for Warming Hall! Cozy up to the fire with free hot chocolate and cider, courtesy of our nonprofit partner the Calaveras Big Trees Association.
Want to be a Junior Ranger? Self-guided booklets are available year-round in our museum. Finish the booklet, get your badge, and start your collection of Junior Ranger stamps to get more prizes!
Can't visit but want a park experience? We're continuing our program at the Arnold and Murphys' Branch Libraries! Join interpretive staff one Wednesday a month, November-March, 2:15-3:15 for programs designed for elementary school kids.
Summer Park Programs
Guided Hikes are offered throughout the summer season. Days and trails vary.
Little Rangers (formerly Junior Cubs) and Junior Rangers programs are offered in the summer season. Junior Rangers offers fun, educational programs for children ages 7 - 12 years old. The Little Rangers program focuses on engaging and fun educational activities for children ages 3 - 6 years old. 10am, days and topics vary.
Campfire Programs are typically offered mid June through mid August, Friday - Monday each week. Programs begin just before sunset. Bonus Saturday campfires on Memorial and Labor Day weekend.
Astronomy Nights are led by knowledgeable California State Park volunteer docents who share their passion for the night sky. Dates vary.
Creek Critters invites families to explore what lives in Beaver Creek and the importance of a clean watershed. Tuesdays and Saturdays, 1:00pm-2:00pm mid June-mid August, depending on water levels.
For program dates and times, please check park announcement boards or ask at the Visitor Center upon arrival. For more information about programs at the park, please call the Interpretation Office at 209-792-7980 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram. The Calaveras Big Trees Association (CBTA) supports all educational programs in the park.
Visit CBTA's website for information about how you can help support their efforts.
Special Events
Warming Hall
Enjoy FREE hot apple cider and hot chocolate from within our historical building, Jack Knight Hall! Come by from December 20th through January 4th, 12pm-3pm, to warm up by the fire and learn more about the park's history and our programs. This event is run by our nonprofit partner, the Calaveras Big Trees Association.
Columbia Family Science Night
February 5th, 4:30-6:30, Columbia Elementary School. Come learn about some of the science found in our park!
Murphys Irish Day Parade and Booth
March 21st, time TBD