7 Bizarrely Named Towns In California

California is a land of striking contrasts—where surfers ride waves beside redwood forests, desert landscapes border fertile valleys, and creativity thrives in every corner. With such a rich cultural and geographic backdrop, it’s no wonder the Golden State also boasts some of the most unique town names in the country. There is a sheer number of bizarrely named towns throughout the nation, and California has some of the most unique of the bizarre. Many names are rooted in the history and character of the region, like the Spanish-settled Vacaville. Each offers a truly unique experience. We've all been there—driving along a highway and tempted by a sign that makes your eyes open wide or smirk. These seven sure know how to capture the imagination. But can they deliver on a real getaway in the Golden State?

Angels Camp

Many are tickled to find another "City of Angels," the only incorporated city in Calaveras County. Named after shopkeeper Henry Angell, he established a trading post in 1848 amid a rich mining area of the mid-19th century. Although the gold waned quickly, some 4,000 miners turned to hard rock mining, keeping the industry alive for many decades. Incorporated in 1912, the Alpine Gold Rush town is honeycombed with tunnels underneath. Above, Downtown Angels Camp has a Western vibe and a lively entertainment scene in scenic surroundings, like Stanislaus National Forest, a short drive northeast.

Mark Twain fans set his story, The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County, in this town, entirely a California Historical Landmark. Sometimes referred to as "Frogtown," visit in May for the annual Jumping Frog Contest. Frog Hop of Fame highlights the past winners, while Angels Camp Museum and Carriage House boast the nation's largest collection of wagons and carriages. Minutes south, New Melones Lake offers boating and fishing, biking, and hiking.

Eureka

"Eureka," supposedly exclaimed by the ancient Greek scientist Archimedes (c. 287-212 B.C.E.) during an experiment to measure the specific gravity of gold, is Greek for “I have found it!” Since the State Seal’s design depicted a gold miner, it seemed most fitting during the 1849 Monterey Constitutional Convention and became the official State Motto in 1963. The name sparks curiosity among tourists who are in for a real treat. Although various locations in California bear the moniker, Eureka, the county seat of Humboldt County, is a real, authentic, and different city of under 27,000.

Eureka is marked with cultural attractions at the heart of the U.S. Redwood Coast in a region so beautiful it has become world-famous. The world’s tallest trees, the coastal redwoods, fill the ruggedly stunning remote landscape along the ocean bluffs. Spend some time relaxing at Sequoia Park and Zoo or tee off at the Eureka Municipal Golf Course. Behind the curtain of redwoods, the Victorian city is a dream for architecture fans and artists. Many who come to find out the meaning behind the city's name find it fitting.

Diablo

This town in Contra Costa County was, in fact, named after the devil, however indirectly. As the story goes, the Spanish military referred to it as “the thicket of the Devil” after losing the trace of Native Americans they were looking to capture. Established in the early 1900s as a staycation for the wealthy from San Francisco at the base of Mount Diablo, the vision was a "Community with an Ideal.” Today, this prestigious micro-community on the edge of greatness attracts real outdoor lovers with incredible hiking opportunities and camping through the park under the dominating peak.

Drop by Diablo Country Club for recreation and relaxation, with state-of-the-art amenities and memorabilia on its heritage. The eponymous state park is rife for exploration with a summit visitor center and observation deck. There are the proximate Boy Scout Rocks, the Sentinel Rock, and Elephant Rock to relax in the views. Summit Trail Diablo Trailhead is a moderate hike for the experienced via a well-maintained trail with amazing views, signage, and even bathrooms.

Shaver Lake

The town hidden away in Fresno County takes its name from the popular recreational lake. This manmade reservoir was constructed by the Pacific Light and Power Corporation and named after C.B. Shaver, a pioneer lumberman in the area who built a rock-filled dam in 1893. Impounded with water, it became a small mill pond for logging operations. Today, the sizable reservoir is a thriving outdoor scene for sightseeing and recreation, with boating, camping, hiking, and fishing. Surrounded by thick pine forests, travelers through the area looking to unwind can relax in a lakeside oasis.

Often overlooked in the scenic embrace of Sierra National Forest, the waterfront town welcomes nature lovers to get acquainted with the Sierra Nevada terrain. The Museum of the Sierra lays out the land's natural and cultural history. Find excellent hotels and camping for every modern traveler, plus top-rated restaurants, with easy access to the uncrowded landscapes, like the closest peak, Mt. Stevenson. The lake features Camp Edison Day Use Beach Area. Balsam Meadows Sno-Park is a popular sledding hill across the lake, while Dinkey Historical Bridge is just 20 minutes east.

Rough and Ready

Boasting one of the most epic names ever, this town has a nomenclature connection to Zachary Taylor. The 12th President of the United States, a Mexican-American War hero, went by “Old Rough and Ready.” In due time, the Rough and Ready Mining Company was born, after which the town was named in 1849 by a group of Wisconsinites. The Gold Rush prospectors were inspired by their former military leader, who was serving in office at that time. Immediately east, Grass Valley hosts tidbits from the mining era at the Empire Mine State Historic Park. Meanwhile, train fans enjoy the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum.

The new mining settlement with a local leather bar by the same name was rebellious to the core, having seceded from the Union as a protest against taxes. Quickly coming to their senses, the “Great Republic of Rough and Ready” dropped its act and was fortunate to rejoin the Union three months later, around the Fourth of July. Visit Rough and Ready in central California early this summer for the annual Secession Days festival throughout June. The whimsical festivities poke away at its brief independence with family-friendly reenactments and historical displays.

Twain Harte

Initially a mining camp, this town was named to honor Mark Twain and Bret Harte. Although the two literary figures weren't born here and didn't grow up enjoying the views of the beautiful Sierras, you can. The first, born in Florida, was a renowned American author of the classics "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." Few know his birth name was Samuel Clemens. Bret Harte was born in Albany and set his works against the California Gold Rush era. By combining their names, George W. Lumsden, a local land developer, laid the path for visitors to pay homage to the literary giants in a hotspot for outdoor activities.

The charming community in the Sierra Nevada foothills is great for a budget base heading into the mountains, as it is a place to relax and soak in the views. Replete with hotels and B&Bs, Twain Harte Golf Course at Eproson Park is right at the heart, with summer concerts, family amusements, and baseball and sports courts. There's a scenic creek to follow south of town or Sugar Pine Railroad Grade, which is a great hike. Follow up at Rock of Twain Harte, simply a must in town, with pub fare and pitchers of microbrews in a rustic, wood-clad space with a deck and patio.

Vacaville

While your mind may relate the name to "vacations" or "cows" since Vacaville means "cow town" in Spanish, it was actually named after Juan Manuel Vaca, a landowner in 1851. The Vaca family, Mr. Vaca and his eight children, and the Peña family were the original settlers in the area. Today, the town offers an easygoing escape from the bustling Bay Area, and downtown is the place to mingle and relax.

Historic buildings line Main Street, with unique restaurants and local boutiques throughout. The original Town Hall is a beautiful 1907 building on Merchant Street, one of the West's first reinforced concrete structures. Town Square and Andrew’s Park host vibrant events like a summer concert series, Fourth of July Celebration, and the annual Merriment on Main Christmas Tree Lighting. Drop by the weekly Farmers’ Market. From vintage treasures, home décor, antiques, and collectibles, you're sure to leave with heavy bags and an easy soul.

Final Thoughts

These seven towns prove that California’s charm extends far beyond the obvious. From the gold rush echoes in Angels Camp to the literary nods in Twain Harte, each destination offers more than just a quirky name—they offer personality, history, and an unforgettable experience. Whether you're drawn to the peaceful forests of Shaver Lake or the rebellious roots of Rough and Ready, these places are perfect for a unique weekend escape. So the next time you spot a strange town name on a highway sign, it might just lead to your next favorite getaway.