Camanche, California, San Joaquin County was once a thriving town before it was submerged underwater. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: San Joaquin County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 38.2141° N, 120.9880° W
Elevation: Approximately 233 feet (71 meters)
Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (PT)
Established: 1849
Disestablished: 1962
Comments: Camanche was established during the California Gold Rush, attracting settlers with the promise of gold and prosperity. The town’s name was inspired by Comanche, Texas, reflecting the hopes of its founders. In the early 20th century, the town experienced a decline as mining opportunities dwindled. By the mid-20th century, plans for a reservoir led to its eventual demise.
Remains: The remains of Camanche are submerged beneath Camanche Reservoir, which was created by the construction of Camanche Dam. Before the town was flooded, many structures were relocated, and some remnants may still exist underwater, though they are inaccessible to the public.
Current Status: Camanche is now considered a ghost town, with its location marked by the Camanche Reservoir. The area around the reservoir is used for recreational activities like fishing, boating, and camping.
Remarks: The story of Camanche serves as a poignant reminder of the transient nature of many boomtowns during the Gold Rush era. Its transformation from a bustling town to a ghostly underwater relic is a tribute to the shifts in economic and environmental priorities over time. Today, visitors to the area can enjoy the natural beauty of the reservoir and reflect on the history that lies beneath its waters.
