Columbia, CA Lodging

Question

We were hoping to visit Columbia for a night or two midweek in late April. On Trip Advisor two park run hotels appear to be no longer in business. There is a nice looking cabin/motel that also appear to not be in business. One motel seems to be left but recent reviews are sketchy, which is sad because it used to be our go to place when we came to Columbia.

Any suggestions for something nearby? We do need something clean with decent beds and parking.

Answer

Columbia, CA is a charming Gold Rush town, but lodging options within the historic park itself are quite limited. Many of the older inns and motels have closed over the years, so it’s smart to look slightly outside the park for reliable accommodations with clean beds and parking.

Here are some nearby options to consider:

Sonora / Jamestown Area Hotels: About 10–15 minutes drive from Columbia, Sonora and Jamestown offer several well-reviewed motels and hotels with modern amenities, parking, and clean rooms. Options include chain hotels like Best Western Plus Sonora Oaks Hotel & Conference Center, and Holiday Inn Express in Sonora.
Airbnb or Vacation Rentals: There are several cabins, cottages, and private homes near Columbia and Jamestown available on Airbnb or VRBO. Many provide parking, kitchens, and privacy, which can be perfect for a midweek stay.
Columbia State Historic Park Lodging: The park has limited historic lodging, such as the Kennedy Gold Mine and the Gold Country Inn, but availability is often scarce, and midweek stays may be easier to book.

Tips for booking:

Check for recent reviews carefully, as some places may have been renovated or declined in quality.
Booking midweek generally offers better availability and lower rates.
If proximity to the park is important, aim for Jamestown or the outskirts of Columbia; otherwise, Sonora provides more conventional hotel comforts.
Ensure the property has on-site parking, as Columbia’s main streets are pedestrian-focused and street parking may be limited.

Overall, while historic Columbia has charm, staying slightly outside the park in Sonora or Jamestown is likely your best bet for clean, comfortable lodging with dependable amenities.