March 13, 2008

The tragic and gruesome tale of the Donner Party, along with Donner Lake's outstanding beauty, makes this one of California's most popular state parks.

It is named after the George and Jacob Donner families who, with other pioneer families, resorted to cannibalism after their wagon train became trapped in heavy snowfall during the 1846-1847 winter at Donner Lake.

The museum poignantly tells the Donner story, as well as depicting how the Central Pacific railroad came through the Sierra. Not to be missed is the 25-minute film on the Donner Party, shown every hour until 3 p.m.

Visitors can also see the place where the pioneers built crude huts to protect themselves from one of the fiercest Sierra winters on record. The Murphy cabin site is a short walk from the museum.

In addition to the history at the museum, Donner Memorial State Park offers 135 campsites, 78 picnic areas, 2.5 miles of trail and 8,650 feet of lakefront. Camping costs $12 a night or $10 for seniors. Day-use area fee is $2 per vehicle. There are no RV hook-ups. Hot pay showers are 50 cents. Junior Ranger, nature and campfire programs are offered throughout the camping season.

Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through the state's Reserve America Inc. at 800-444-7275.

More Donner Party history can be founded at the Donner Camp Picnic Grounds, located on the other side of Truckee. Take State Route 89 north from I-80 East and turn on Alder Road. It is the site where the George and Jacob Donner families camped during that fateful winter.

The Donner museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $1 for adults. Those age 16 and under are free.

For more information, call 530-582-7892.