Cities and Towns in Amador County, California
Founded in 1854, Amador County is one of 58 counties in the state of California. Historically, Amador County was formed from Calaveras. The city of Jackson is the county seat. With FIPS code of 5, Amador County has a population of 41,259 and area of 606 square miles (1,570 km²).
List of all cities in Amador County, CA alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Amador City, CA | 95601 | 209 |
Camanche Lake, CA | 95640 | 209 |
Carbondale, CA | 95640 | 209 |
Clinton, CA | 95642 | 209 |
Drytown, CA | 95699 | 209 |
Fiddletown, CA | 95629 | 209 |
Ione, CA | 95640 | 209 |
Jackson, CA | 95642 | 209 |
95654 | 209 | |
Kit Carson, CA | 95644 | 209 |
Martell, CA | 95654 | 209 |
Mount Aukum, CA | 95675 | 209 |
Pine Grove, CA | 95665 | 209 |
Pioneer, CA | 95644 | 209 |
95666 | 209 | |
Plymouth, CA | 95669 | 209 |
River Pines, CA | 95675 | 209 |
Silver Lake, CA | 95666 | 209 |
Sunnybrook, CA | 95640 | 209 |
Sutter Creek, CA | 95685 | 209 |
95699 | 209 | |
Sutter Hill, CA | 95685 | 209 |
Volcano, CA | 95689 | 209 |
Major Cities and Towns in Amador County, California
Jackson
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 3.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,927 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 95642
- Latitude: 38.3488° N
- Longitude: 120.7744° W
Location and History
Jackson is the county seat and one of the oldest cities in Amador County, located in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Founded in 1848 during the California Gold Rush, Jackson quickly became a bustling mining town. The city was named after Colonel Alden Jackson, an early settler and merchant. Jackson’s rich history is closely tied to the gold mining industry, with several historic mines in the area, including the famous Kennedy Mine, which was one of the deepest gold mines in the world. Over the years, Jackson has evolved from a mining center into a charming small town that retains much of its historical character. The city’s location along State Route 49, also known as the Gold Country Highway, makes it a popular destination for tourists exploring California’s gold rush history.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Jackson is served by the Amador County Unified School District, with Jackson Junior High School and Jackson Elementary School being the primary educational institutions. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Kennedy Gold Mine, which offers tours and exhibits on the history of gold mining in the region. The historic downtown area features well-preserved 19th-century buildings, shops, and restaurants that reflect the city’s gold rush heritage. The Amador County Museum, located in a historic building, provides further insights into the region’s history. Jackson’s blend of historical significance, educational institutions, and cultural attractions make it a central part of Amador County.
Sutter Creek
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 2.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,557 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 95685
- Latitude: 38.3924° N
- Longitude: 120.8027° W
Location and History
Sutter Creek is one of the most picturesque towns in Amador County, located along Sutter Creek in the Sierra Nevada foothills. The town was established in the 1850s and is named after John Sutter, the man whose mill sparked the California Gold Rush. Sutter Creek quickly became a prominent mining town, with several successful mines operating in the area. The town’s prosperity during the gold rush is reflected in its well-preserved Victorian architecture and historic buildings. Today, Sutter Creek is known for its charming downtown area, which attracts visitors interested in exploring California’s gold rush history. The town’s location along State Route 49 makes it a key stop on the Gold Country tourism circuit.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sutter Creek is served by the Amador County Unified School District, with Amador High School and Sutter Creek Elementary School providing education to local students. The town’s major landmarks include the Knight Foundry, a historic water-powered foundry and machine shop that offers tours and demonstrations. The Sutter Creek Theatre, a beautifully restored 1919 movie house, hosts live performances and events throughout the year. The town’s historic Main Street is lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants, offering a glimpse into the area’s past while catering to modern visitors. Sutter Creek’s combination of historical charm, cultural activities, and scenic beauty make it a highlight of Amador County.
Plymouth
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 0.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,005 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 95669
- Latitude: 38.4816° N
- Longitude: 120.8433° W
Location and History
Plymouth is a small town located in the northern part of Amador County, in the heart of California’s wine country. The town was established in the 1850s as a mining camp and quickly grew as gold was discovered in the nearby rivers and streams. Originally known as Pokerville, the town was renamed Plymouth in the late 19th century. As the gold rush faded, Plymouth transitioned into an agricultural community, with vineyards and wineries becoming a significant part of the local economy. Today, Plymouth is known as the “Gateway to the Shenandoah Valley,” a region famous for its wine production. The town’s location along State Route 49 makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the wineries and scenic landscapes of Amador County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Plymouth is part of the Amador County Unified School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby towns such as Sutter Creek or Jackson. The town’s most notable landmarks include the Amador Flower Farm, which features beautiful gardens and a nursery specializing in daylilies, and the nearby wineries of the Shenandoah Valley, which offer tours, tastings, and events throughout the year. Plymouth’s historic downtown area retains its gold rush-era charm, with several buildings dating back to the 19th century. The town also hosts the annual Amador County Fair, a popular event that celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage. Plymouth’s combination of historical significance, wine culture, and rural charm make it a key destination in Amador County.
Ione
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 4.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 7,917 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 95640
- Latitude: 38.3524° N
- Longitude: 120.9333° W
Location and History
Ione is located in the western part of Amador County, in the Sierra Nevada foothills. The town was founded in the 1840s and initially served as a supply center for gold miners traveling to the nearby Mother Lode region. Unlike many towns in the area, Ione’s economy was not solely based on gold mining; it also became a center for agriculture and brick-making, thanks to the rich clay deposits in the region. The town’s name is believed to be derived from “Ione,” a character in Edward Bulwer-Lytton’s novel “The Last Days of Pompeii.” Over the years, Ione has retained its small-town charm while growing into a residential community with a rich historical legacy. The town’s location along State Route 104 provides easy access to larger cities while maintaining a quiet, rural atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ione is served by the Amador County Unified School District, with Ione Junior High School and Ione Elementary School being the primary educational institutions. The town’s major landmarks include Preston Castle, a historic reform school built in the late 19th century, which is now a popular tourist attraction offering tours and events. The Castle Oaks Golf Club, located in Ione, is another key attraction, offering a championship golf course set against the scenic backdrop of the Sierra Nevada foothills. Ione’s historic downtown area features several well-preserved buildings, shops, and restaurants that reflect the town’s rich history. Ione’s combination of historical sites, educational institutions, and recreational opportunities make it an important part of Amador County.
Amador City
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 95601
- Latitude: 38.4185° N
- Longitude: 120.8308° W
Location and History
Amador City is the smallest incorporated city in California, located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada foothills in Amador County. The town was established in the 1850s during the California Gold Rush and was named after Jose Maria Amador, a wealthy rancher and miner who played a significant role in the area’s early development. Amador City quickly became a bustling mining town, with several successful mines operating in the area, including the Keystone Mine, which was one of the most productive gold mines in the region. Despite its small size, Amador City has managed to preserve much of its historic charm, with many of its original buildings still standing today. The town’s location along State Route 49 makes it a popular stop for tourists exploring California’s gold country.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Amador City is served by the Amador County Unified School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby towns such as Sutter Creek or Jackson. The town’s most notable landmarks include the Amador Whitney Museum, which showcases the history of Amador City and the surrounding area, and the historic downtown area, which features several well-preserved 19th-century buildings, shops, and restaurants. The town’s small size and rich history make it a charming and unique destination for visitors interested in California’s gold rush heritage. Amador City’s combination of historical significance and scenic beauty make it a key part of Amador County’s cultural landscape.