Copperopolis is a former mining town known for its vacation lifestyle
Once a 19th-century boomtown, Copperopolis has experienced a resurgence in the 2000s as a destination known for its outdoor activities. "We have a lot of recreation in the area. There are homes on Lake Tulloch. People have boat docks and beautiful homes in gated communities," says Sara Cooper, the broker and owner of Legacy Properties, a longtime area resident. "We also have a very nice golf course, and we're very close to skiing." The rural Calaveras County community was founded in 1860, following the discovery of copper in the hills. It grew quickly due to its abundant natural resources, which were crucial during the Civil War. The area experienced a few more boom periods during the World Wars, but its population largely declined. Subdivisions began to emerge in the late 20th century, resulting in renewed growth within the community. Today, it is home to approximately 3,400 people who enjoy the scenic landscape and numerous recreational opportunities.
A variety of housing styles in the California countryside
Copperopolis offers a diverse range of homes. Ranch-style and New Traditional houses make up much of the community, while luxury custom homes sit along the water at Lake Tulloch. Manufactured houses are also available in some parts. The community streets wind along rolling hills dotted with tall grass, oaks and olive trees. Some properties have palm trees in the yards, adding a tropical feel. Lots are spacious, with a median size of over a quarter of an acre. The median sales price in Copperopolis is around $670,000. Buyers should be aware of the significant wildfire risk in the area. Calaveras County offers several resources on fire preparedness.
Lake sports and scenic golf in the Sierra Nevada foothills
Year-round outdoor recreation keeps things exciting in Copperopolis. Residents can launch a boat or cast a fishing line from the banks at the Tulloch Day Use Area on O'Byrnes Ferry Road. The Kiva is a private recreation site open to homeowners in the Copper Cove subdivision, featuring a boat ramp and docks, a swim area and picnic tables. The subdivision also offers equestrian facilities and Black Creek Park, which has a playground, basketball court and picnic areas. Copper Valley Golf Club is an 18-hole course open to the public, known for its scenic views of the Sierra Nevada. A 61-mile drive on state Route 4 leads to Bear Valley Mountain Resort, which has 75 trails across 1,680 skiable acres.
Local schools offer advanced career pathways
Students might attend Copperopolis Elementary School, rated a C-minus by Niche, for kindergarten through sixth grade. Mark Twain Elementary School receives a C and teaches kindergarten through eighth grade. Bret Harte Union High School earns a B-plus from Niche. Twain Elementary and the high school are each about 12 miles from the community. High school students can choose from five career and technical education pathways, including business, engineering and agriculture. The school also offers dual enrollment courses through Columbia College and a medical science program that allows students to gain hands-on experience at local clinics and hospitals. California allows for open enrollment and interdistrict transfers, with placement depending on available space.
State Route 4 connects to nearby cities and essentials
Because of the rural location, Copperopolis does not have any public transit. State Route 4 is the main highway in the area, leading about 12 miles east to the city of Angels Camp. Route 4 also offers a 40-mile drive west to Stockton, which has the closest major airport. The Bay Area is about 120 miles west via Route 4 and Interstate 580. The closest hospital is Adventist Health Sonora, about 23 miles away.
Copperopolis blends rural charm with themed shopping and dining spots
For a rural, countryside community, Copperopolis has a wide range of shopping and dining options close to home. The Town Square at Copper Valley is an outdoor shopping center that was built in 2008 to resemble a historic town center, featuring Old West-themed storefronts lining its streets. Businesses include a sporting goods shop and a barbershop. Gold Dust Pizza is known for its specialty pies and wings, while Griff's BBQ & Grill serves smoked meat and burgers. Mi Pueblo is a colorful Mexican restaurant on Spangler Lane next to the Young's Payless IGA. Other stores in the community include Family Dollar and Lake Tulloch Ace Hardware. Residents can head east on Route 4 for several more dining options. "You can go to the little town of Murphys, which is about 25 minutes away. There are like 40 wine tasting rooms on Main Street. It's a very cute town," Cooper says
Neighbors gather for annual and weekly events at the Square
The Town Square hosts several events throughout the year, including a weekly farmers market on Sundays with live music, crafts and fresh produce. The Hot Copper Car Show takes place in May and includes music, raffles and food. Residents come together in early December to kick off the holiday season with the Christmas Tree Lighting. Ironstone Vineyards in Murphys is a hot spot for live music, hosting a summer concert series featuring artists like ZZ Top, Train and Ringo Starr.
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Written By
Matthew Atkins
