Mark Twain Cabin - Sonora, California

eric p

Unless you are a major Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) fan this is not somewhere you really need to visit. It's a little over a mile up a residential road that is somewhat steep and very poorly maintained (4wd not required but it's bumpy).

The cabin itself is a replica that was built in 1922 and renovated in 2002. The only piece of the original cabin is the stone fireplace and chimney. Even the land around the property has been developed to an unrecognizable state as to when he stayed here. Yes, in this very spot he supposedly wrote "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County" but it's more of an idea of what he lived like.

There is parking in the lot for about 5-6 cars but even on a weekend you most likely won't see anyone else. You can't get in to the cabin, as there is a fence around it, which seems silly since it's not authentic.

It is open sunrise to sunset. There are no seats, tables, or anything to do other than take a quick picture.

Duarte Avila

sign says not original cabin Mark Twain lived in/errected in the 1920s. nice to visit though

Travis Fast

Interesting little piece of history. The building is a replica, but the chimney fireplace are original. Jackass Hill Road is a little intimidating, particularly at the beginning. It does have some potholes and it is narrow and steep. You may have the feeling that it will be impossible to turn around, but once you get on up about a half a mile or a little further there are several private dwellings and there is plenty of space directly adjacent to the cabin to park your vehicle and walk around. The cabin itself has a nice explanatory marker and is fenced off with a good quality fence but you can still look in the windows and the door. The cabin sits very near several other private properties.

Jim Bagley

It’s fun to visit this part of California’s gold country‘s history and the connection with Mark Twain. This replica cabin has been preserved in the scrub oak foothills where Samuel Clemens experienced California. It’s a narrow rough road up to the top of the hill but worth the time to discover. Make time to visit the Angels Camp Museum and Calaveras County visitor center for more information.

Shem Ishler

Quite the work of fiction to call this Mark Twain Cabin. Mark Twain had nothing to do with this cabin.

Harvey Mains

This historical cabin is worth a short visit. It is part of the early history of Mark Twain in the California Gold Rush era. The 1 mile road to get there is basically one lane with potential traffic in both directions. Read all there is to read and take photos to share with friends and family.

Maria Cerda

Not very much to see here. The mile road to get to it is one lane that's share for traffic going in both directions. It's just a cabin with a fence around it and you cannot go inside. It was just neat to see where Mark Twain had lived.

carolyn R.

Great place very cool with homes around it you just pull up and park. Easy drive up the hill.