NorCal Ventures, Part 3: Moaning Caves, Stagecoach Rides and More!

"The very cave you are afraid to enter turns out to be the source of what you are looking for." ~ Joseph Campbell

If you're in the Sacramento area or are planning a visit, here are some fun day trip ideas:

1. Moaning Caverns: The largest single cave chamber in California.

2. Columbia State Historic Park: "Gem of the Southern Mines"

3. Negro Bar State Park: A great place to go kayaking.

4. Folsom Zoo: A sanctuary for many rescued animals.

1. Moaning Caverns:

This wasn't our first time in a big cave, but there were many unique things about this cave, starting with the terrifying staircase you take down into the cave.

Once you're down you feel much more secure, that is until they turn the lights out. That is the darkest dark I have ever experienced and, to be honest, it scared me. However, the kids loved it. But, nevertheless, it was so interesting to experience total darkness.

The cave itself was so interesting with so many fascinating features, such as, the chocolate waterfall.

And bunch of other awesome formations:

Can you see the devil looking shadow in this pic?

2. Colombia State Historic Park:

This park is so much fun to explore because when you step foot here, you take a step back in time to the 1850s. Parking and entrance here are free and there are so many fun things to do and explore here!

We started out with some lunch and sarsaparilla at St. Charles Saloon. The food, drinks, and service here were great!

Then we headed down Main St to explore.

I would recommend a stagecoach ride which are available on the weekends (weather permitting). Go early in the day if you'd like to do this because they can sell out.

There are all sorts of shops, restaurants, hotels, and even a spot to do some panning for gold.

We ended our day with some coffee, hot cocoa, and ice cream at Brown's Coffee House & Sweets Saloon.

3. Negro Bar State Park:

This is one of my favorite places to hike along Lake Natoma in Folsom and go kayaking and paddle boarding.

4. Folsom Zoo:

We've been here many times since the kids were itty bittys. It's a small zoo that has recently expanded with all sorts of animals with interesting stories. Some other features include: a place for birthday parties, large park nearby the kids love to play at, and plenty of great places to eat. Here are a few animal favorites: