La Veta Madre “The Mother Lode”
340 acres, one mile of the American River

Placerville, CA

This unique riverfront property is located just 5 miles from the historic town of Placerville in the heart of “Gold Country” and consists of 3 parcels. Originally owned by the railroad this property is only on its third ownership in a century. No one has ever resided on this property. The Chinese used to pan for gold on an upper stream approx. 150 years ago.

The topography consists of a mile of the American River at the bottom of a canyon with fairly steep hillsides on both sides of the river and includes some ridge tops and meadows. The property is very private and nearly inaccessible except by private access. Approx. 2 miles of roads have been developed and improved on the property as well as gravel driveways giving good access to the river and to 3 excellent building sites with spectacular panoramic views. This is a very private portion of the American River with no public access.

The approx. 1 mile of river corridor is home to many animal species including deer, fox, otter, bear, cougar, eagles and others. There are large boulders of quartz with crystals, many deep swimming holes, waterfalls, white water rapids, and an isthmus behind a large boulder where hundreds of trout fingerlings can be seen in spring. The fishing is excellent and there is a hiking trail that runs along the river from one end to another

There are 2 productive domestic wells on the property providing water to 2 out of the 3 natural building sites. Electricity is close and runs through the property.

This property was approved for a US Department of Agriculture federal EQUIP grant for reforestation and fire protection that has been completed. 40 acres were cleared in preparation for 12,000 trees planted. The trees have been in for about 3 years. It is a Certified Family Forest and carries some advantages including tax advantages.

The neighboring hillsides include quality vineyards and world class wineries. The land is accessible year round and is within an hour or two of the Bay area, Sacramento and Lake Tahoe. This could be the largest privately owned portion of the American River and a prime candidate for a Conservation Easement.

La Veta Madre is owned free and clear and is offered for $2,225,000.

American River Assessor map

American River location map

American River satelite map