Reviews

Holly Gallian

I brought a group of my Empower + Thrive leadership teenagers here for a leadership development activity I created for them to learn more about history, culture, and the power of choices and leadership. We did a docent tour and also watched the movie, explored the museum and did the nature walk. It was such an amazing experience and I have several youth who said this experience has been their favorite one so far we have done. I am super grateful for Sharon giving us her wisdom and answering questions and guiding us along on the journey of history.

Anh M.

Really interesting and meaningful place to visit. Donner Memorial State Museum does a great job telling the story of the Donner Party and the history of the area in a way that feels respectful and informative. The exhibits are well done and give a lot of context, and the setting by the lake makes it even more impactful. A good stop if you want both history and a beautiful place to walk around. We only had to pay $10 to park.

Angie Aguirre

Such a great spot to stop in and learn about some history.But have some great things to look at. The hiking trail right along the side is also beautiful.

Gemma

Damn, this was a great spot for a quick stop! We were here for around 45 mins (but only because they were closing — as we definitely coulda stayed longer!) First, the video. Great vintage runthrough of the infamous Donner Pass history. I will say, I struggled to hear some parts — subtitles would be a fab addition! After the movie we strolled through the exhibit, and I was by far most interested in the Washoe history. This felt largely left out of the film, and I was relieved it was on display in the full walk through. Be sure to spend some time strolling through that too :)

cara welch

This museum was a welcomed surprise! Thank you to whom recommended this!

Anna J

Great information, clean and well maintained. Used our California Explorers State Park Pass. Lots of trails and activities.

Brian Sanders

Very nice staff, super clean. Pool is awesome. Hot tub was so nice after long drive. Breakfast was hot and good. Very good coffee

Stephen Axe

Great museum, that focuses on the attempted crossing by a group of settlers known as the Donner party attempted to cross in November 1846. Their story is tragic and yet awe inspiring. I thoroughly recommend you spend some time here, watch the film and explore the well laid out museum. You will not be disappointed. I cycled there from Truckee using the cycle route and went on to the beautiful Donner Lake.

Starlene “Mike and Star” Thompson

It’s pretty cool they got some beautiful trees, huge trees, huge pinecones little museum bathrooms. They have something that you can pay to go through, but I’m not sure what it is nor am I actually interested in it cause I’m interested in the shower at my daughter.

Johnny G

Fantastic place. I only had a few minutes to check it out, and I am definitely coming back in a couple weeks to take my time and enjoy all the exhibits. Everybody was friendly.

Mike Fritsch

It's really great to hear the story of the Donner party. If you haven't heard it before and seen all the details. This is a nice little museum and Park. Make sure you pay the parking fee right away and put the ticket in your dash or you will get a ticket.

Funsized Traveler

The museum was very educational. I learned a lot about what they went through, unbelievable. They have the museum set up very nicely. On the outside, the trails are very wide and flat and easy to walk on for all ages. They have ponds on the trail, too. I highly recommend going.

Adam Cook

This is a state park with camping spots near Donner Lake. This is also the memorial for the infamous Donner party who got stuck in a massive snowstorm. The memorial itself has some good details on what happened, but the impressive part is the top of the pedestal. This represents the snowfall that year, which was 22 feet. It is insane to think about now with California's record droughts. There is also a walk through exhibit that showcases the unfortunate events of the Donner party but also other facts about Donner Lake and the transcontinental rail road.

Manuel Girisch

Very informative museum and visitor center. Entrance is free, parking 5 Dollar. You can whatch a movie about the area and the exhibits are really impressive, as is the dramatic and tragic story about the Donner Party, the settlers, who got stuck on this pass for month and suffered great loss. The monument near by is dedicated to the pioneers, their courage and bravery. There is also a very good and large gift shop.