Cities and Towns in Tuolumne County, California

Founded in 1850, Tuolumne County is one of 58 counties in the state of California. The city of Sonora is the county seat. With FIPS code of 109, Tuolumne County has a population of 55,810 and area of 2,236 square miles (5,791 km²).

List of all cities in Tuolumne County, CA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Big Oak Flat, CA	95305	209
Chinese Camp, CA	95309	209
Cold Springs, CA	95335	209
Columbia, CA	95310	209
Dardanelle, CA	95314	209
Groveland, CA	95321	209
Jamestown, CA	95327	209
Long Barn, CA	95335	209
Mi Wuk Village, CA	95346	209
Moccasin, CA	95347	209
Pinecrest, CA	95314	209
	95364	209
	95375	209
Sonora, CA	95370	209
Sonora, CA	95373	209
Soulsbyville, CA	95372	209
Standard, CA	95373	209
Strawberry, CA	95375	209
Tuolumne, CA	95379	209
Twain Harte, CA	95383	209

Major Cities and Towns in Tuolumne County, California

Sonora

• Area: 3.1 square miles
• Population: 5,003 (2020 Census)
• ZIP Codes: 95370
• Latitude and Longitude: 37.9841° N, 120.3822° W

Location and History

Sonora, the county seat of Tuolumne County, California, is nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Established in 1848 during the California Gold Rush, Sonora was founded by Mexican miners from the state of Sonora, Mexico, which gave the city its name. It quickly became a bustling town as prospectors flocked to the area in search of gold. Over time, Sonora evolved from a mining town into a vibrant community with a rich historical heritage. The city retains much of its 19th-century charm, with well-preserved buildings and historic sites that reflect its Gold Rush past. Today, Sonora serves as a gateway to Yosemite National Park and is known for its picturesque downtown, historical significance, and as a hub for tourism, offering a blend of cultural attractions and outdoor activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Sonora is served by the Sonora Union High School District, which includes Sonora High School, known for its strong academic programs and active participation in sports and arts. Major landmarks in Sonora include the Tuolumne County Courthouse, an iconic building constructed in 1898, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The city is also home to the historic Sonora Opera Hall, which hosts a variety of cultural events and performances throughout the year. The nearby Dragoon Gulch Trail provides scenic hiking opportunities with views of the city and surrounding hills. Sonora’s annual events, such as the Mother Lode Round-Up and the Christmas Parade, celebrate the city’s rich heritage and community spirit, drawing visitors from across the region. Sonora’s combination of historical charm, educational resources, and cultural activities make it a vibrant and attractive city in Tuolumne County.

Twain Harte

• Area: 3.7 square miles
• Population: 2,226 (2020 Census)
• ZIP Codes: 95383
• Latitude and Longitude: 38.0380° N, 120.2349° W

Location and History

Twain Harte is a small mountain community located in Tuolumne County, California, in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Named after the famous authors Mark Twain and Bret Harte, who both had ties to the area, the town was established in the early 20th century as a summer resort destination. Twain Harte’s picturesque setting, with its pine forests and proximity to the Stanislaus National Forest, made it a popular spot for vacation homes and outdoor recreation. Over time, the town has grown into a close-knit community, known for its charming cabins, scenic surroundings, and family-friendly atmosphere. Today, Twain Harte remains a popular destination for tourists seeking a peaceful mountain retreat, with activities such as fishing, hiking, and skiing nearby.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Twain Harte is served by the Twain Harte-Long Barn Union School District, with students attending Twain Harte School, a K-8 institution that plays a central role in the community. Major landmarks in Twain Harte include the Twain Harte Arch, a well-known local symbol that welcomes visitors to the town, and the Twain Harte Lake, a private lake that offers swimming, fishing, and picnicking opportunities. The town also features a 9-hole golf course that provides a relaxing way to enjoy the mountain scenery. Each summer, Twain Harte hosts the Twain Harte Summer Arts and Wine Festival, which showcases local artists and winemakers, and the Concerts in the Pines series, which brings live music to the community. The town’s blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and community events make Twain Harte a charming and desirable place to live and visit in Tuolumne County.

Groveland

• Area: 10.2 square miles
• Population: 540 (2020 Census)
• ZIP Codes: 95321
• Latitude and Longitude: 37.8388° N, 120.2305° W

Location and History

Groveland is a historic town located in the western part of Tuolumne County, California, on the way to Yosemite National Park. Originally a Gold Rush town known as “Garrote,” Groveland was established in the mid-19th century and became an important stop for travelers heading to the Sierra Nevada’s goldfields. The town’s name was changed to Groveland in the late 19th century as it transitioned from a rough mining camp to a more settled community. Groveland played a significant role in the development of the Hetch Hetchy Railroad, which was used to transport materials for the construction of the Hetch Hetchy Dam in Yosemite. Today, Groveland is known for its historical significance, charming downtown, and as a gateway to Yosemite, attracting tourists and outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Groveland is served by the Big Oak Flat-Groveland Unified School District, with students attending Tenaya Elementary School and Tioga High School. Major landmarks in Groveland include the Iron Door Saloon, one of California’s oldest continuously operating saloons, which dates back to the Gold Rush era and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum offers exhibits on the town’s history and its connection to Yosemite National Park.

Map of Cities in Tuolumne County, CA