State Historic Park Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park is the place where James W. Marshall found some shining flecks of gold in the tailrace of a sawmill he was building for himself and John Sutter. This discovery in 1848 changed the course of California history. The park has a museum, with exhibits that tell the story of the Gold Rush, a replica of the sawmill and a number of historic buildings.
Visitors can pan for gold in the river or enjoy a picnic under the trees.
A statue marks the gravesite of Marshall, who died in 1885. Throughout the year the park has special events, including living history programs. A self-guiding trail makes it easy to visit the site of Marshall's momentous discovery as well as other points of interest. The park is located in Coloma on Highway 49 nine miles north of Placerville between Placerville and Auburn. Layered clothing is advised.