Donner Mine Camp

08/27/2026

🌲 Scenes from Camp

Sometimes the most memorable part of a visit to Donner Mine Camp isn't an activity on the schedule.

It's the quiet moments.

The morning light filtering through the trees. The sound of the Bear River flowing nearby. A conversation around a picnic table. Watching the stars appear after a full day outdoors.

For generations, people have come here to disconnect from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with nature, friends, and family.

Every visitor leaves with different memories—but that's part of what makes this place so special.

What's one memory that always comes to mind when you think of Donner Mine Camp?

08/11/2026

🌲 From the Caretaker

A few weeks ago, we introduced our new caretaker, Ian Baker, and many of you welcomed him with kind words. Thank you for making him feel at home.

We thought we'd share a little more about what brought Ian back to Donner Mine Camp.

When asked what drew him to this role, Ian shared:
"Like everyone who has spent time here, it leaves a lasting impression on you."

That connection to the camp—and the opportunity to help care for it—is what inspired him to return.

As Ian put it: "The chance to be a steward for these deeply important things was a strong draw."

Every trail maintained, every cabin prepared, and every improvement made helps ensure that future generations can create memories here just as so many have before.

If you see Ian during your next visit, be sure to say hello!

07/28/2026

🏛 Historic Spotlight: The Headframe

One of the most recognizable landmarks at Donner Mine Camp is the historic headframe—a reminder of the property's rich mining heritage and the people who lived and worked here long before camp began its current journey.

Today, historic structures help tell the story of California's Gold Country while providing a unique setting for the nonprofit organizations that gather here each year.

Preserving Donner Mine Camp means preserving both its history as the Zeibright Mine and its mission for future generations.

Do you have a favorite memory of camp or the mining structures? We'd love to hear your stories in the comments.

07/14/2026

Please join us in welcoming Ian Baker as the new caretaker of Donner Mine Camp.

Ian grew up in nearby Dutch Flat and has long-standing ties to the area, the Bear River watershed, and the history of our region. Some may remember him from time spent at camp as a teenager, where, as he puts it, "like everyone who has spent time here, it leaves a lasting impression on you."

After a career in agriculture and greenhouse management, Ian has returned to the foothills to help steward this special place. His interests range from bonsai and photography to local history, music, and restoration projects—making him a natural fit for a property as unique as Donner Mine Camp.

When asked to describe camp in three words, Ian chose:

"Magical. Rare. Influential."

We're excited to have Ian as part of the Donner Mine Camp family and look forward to the impact he'll have helping preserve this historic property for future generations.

Welcome, Ian!

Follow our page to learn more about the people, history, and mission of Donner Mine Camp.

07/09/2026

📬 Our Summer 2026 Newsletter Has Arrived!

Summer is well underway at Donner Mine Camp, and we're excited to share what's been happening around camp.

In this issue you'll find:

🌲 A welcome to our new caretaker, Ian Baker

📊 Mid-season highlights and the impact camp is already making this year

🏛 A look back at the history of the Zeibright Mine headframe

👀 A preview of what's still to come this season

Whether you're a longtime volunteer, former camper, supporter, or simply interested in the history and future of Donner Mine Camp, we hope you'll enjoy catching up on the latest news.

Not receiving our quarterly newsletter? Send us a message with your email address, and we'll be happy to add you to our mailing list so you never miss an update.

We look forward to sharing more stories from Donner Mine Camp throughout the year. Enjoy the photo of the Bear River taken by Ian.

07/01/2026

As Independence Day approaches, all of us at Donner Mine Camp pause to reflect on the freedoms and opportunities that have shaped our nation.

For generations, this historic property has served as a place where nonprofit organizations gather to learn, grow, build community, and create lasting traditions.

We are grateful for the volunteers, supporters, and users who help preserve this special place for future generations.

From all of us at Donner Mine Camp, we wish you and your families a safe and happy Independence Day.

(Photo courtesy of Nevada County 4H)

06/16/2026

For all our groups, in case you haven't seen this, fires are now being restricted to established pits and cooking devices across the area. Also be aware, even if fires are permitted in the area at the time of your event, Donner Mine Camp staff will measure and approve as appopriate any and all fire activities for the balance of the summer. Thank you for your understanding.

The increasing fire danger posed by the high volume of dead grass and hotter, drier conditions in the region is prompting CAL FIRE to suspend all burn permits for outdoor residential burning within th

05/11/2026

Thanks to everyone who came out this weekend to help get DMC ready for the season. There’s always more to do than the time we have, but we could never get this far without all the help!

05/04/2026

Donner Mine Camp - Spring Work Weekend (May 9 & 10) - https://mailchi.mp/304290f61184/donner-mine-camp-spring-work-weekend-april-27-8344507

04/22/2026

Donner Mine Camp - Spring Work Weekend (May 9 & 10) - https://mailchi.mp/2b2d64e2379f/donner-mine-camp-spring-work-weekend-april-27-8344506