Tower House Historic District

The 2018 Carr Fire burned through much of the area, but the historic Camden House itself was saved.

NPS

Quick Facts

Location:

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

Significance:

Historic Site

Amenities

10 listed

Cellular Signal, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information Kiosk/Bulletin Board, Parking - Auto, Parking - Bus/RV, Picnic Table, Restroom - Accessible, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles

Located approximately 7 ½ miles west of the Whiskeytown visitor center, on CA Highway 299 in the western section of Whiskeytown National Recreation Area where three creeks merge into one, Tower House Historic District is the park’s signature historic site. The site is accessed by following the paved trail from the parking lot and then crossing a footbridge over Clear Creek into the area where the Camden House is located. The footbride is located on the original site of a toll bridge built by Charles Camden who also built the Camden House in 1852 at the beginning of the California Gold Rush. Wintu heritage merges with California Gold Rush history here, and big names associated with the historic district include Levi Tower, Charles and Philena Camden, and American Indian servant Kate Camden. As you stroll along the paved interpretive trail, ponder the lives of these individuals and think about how they gained sustenance from the land and water.