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Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park, a forested 3,000-acre park, is the site of California's largest hydraulic gold mine. Visitors can see huge cliffs carved by mighty streams of water, results of the gold-mining technique of washing away entire mountains to find the precious metal. Legal battles between mine owners and downstream farmers ended this method. The park also contains a 7,847-foot bedrock tunnel that serves as a drain. The visitor center has exhibits on life in the old mining town of North Bloomfield.

Sierra Plumas Eureka State Park is located high on the east slopes of the Sierra Nevada. The 7,400-foot Eureka Peak in the park sits on top of what was once a large body of precious metal. Hardrock gold mining was once the primary activity in the region from the 1850s until the Second World War. The park contains the Mining History Museum that features displays on mining and pioneer life in the area. The 6,700 acre park protects the remains of the Mohawk Stamp Mill and several other buildings. The park features hiking and fishing and, in winter, cross-country and downhill skiing. Hikers can enjoy more than ten miles of trails. No laundry facilities at the park.

Grover Hot Springs State Park is situated in a small alpine valley of forest and meadows at 6000'. Best known for its hot pool that is fed by hot springs, the small campground is also a popular family destination. A trout creek runs through the park and hiking trails lead into scenic Forest Service lands. The hot pool and recreation pool are open all year. During the winter season, there is cross country skiing and snow shoeing in the valley.