All Communities
Featured Community
Mokelumne Hill California
Once the richest and most cosmopolitan Gold Rush camp in California, 'Moke Hill' preserves extraordinary 1850s architecture.
600
Population
15,000
Peak Population
1,475'
Elevation
Featured Listings
Available Properties
Handpicked listings in the Mokelumne Hill area available now.
Established 1848
Gold Rush Era
About Mokelumne Hill
Historic charm meets modern living
The surrounding hills yielded so much gold that miners were restricted to claims of just 16 square feet—yet many of those claims produced up to $20,000. In late 1848, four Frenchmen returned to San Francisco with 138 pounds of gold, all from a gulch near Moke Hill.
Today, Mokelumne Hill is a quiet, artistic community that treasures its extraordinary heritage. The Hotel Léger continues to operate since 1851, and an active historical society preserves the authentic Gold Rush atmosphere.
Calaveras Unified
School District
History
A Walk Through Time
1848
Gold Discovery
Discharged soldiers from Stevenson's Regiment discover gold. The camp quickly grows as word spreads of the incredibly rich diggings.
1850
Peak Population
An estimated 15,000 people crowd into Mokelumne Hill, making it one of the largest and most diverse Gold Rush settlements.
1851
The French War
French miners refuse to pay the Foreign Miners' Tax, raising the French flag. Governor dispatches militia before negotiating a peaceful resolution.
1866
County Seat Moves
With gold running out and multiple fires devastating the town, the county seat transfers to San Andreas.
Things to Do
Experience the lifestyle
Discover what makes Mokelumne Hill a special place to live and visit.
Hotel Léger
Dine and stay at one of California's oldest continuously operating hotels, rumored to be haunted.
I.O.O.F. Hall
Visit the imposing 1854 stone building, now a community center and museum.
Historic Walking Tour
Explore authentic 1850s architecture that survived three major fires.
Congregational Church
See the beautiful 1856 church, one of California's oldest Protestant churches.
Local Art
Discover galleries and studios in this small, artistic community.
Annual Celebrations
Join the historical society for events celebrating Gold Rush heritage.
Surroundings
Nearby Landmarks
Driving times from downtown
10 min
San Andreas
County seat with museum and services.
15 min
Jackson
Historic Amador County town with Kennedy Mine.
20 min
Sutter Creek
Charming Gold Rush town with shops and dining.
15 min
Angels Camp
Commercial center with New Melones Lake access.
Contact
Interested in Mokelumne Hill?
Whether you're looking to buy a vacation home, sell your property, or just want to know more about the area.
Call directly
(916) 949-3377Jessa Teel, REALTOR®
Realty ONE Group Complete
CA DRE #02114257