Our Communities

Bear Valley

a.k.a. Haydensville, Biddleville, Simpsonville, and Johnsonville. 

As the town name changed over time, so did the town population as the mines fluctuated.  Bear Valley was once the heart of John C. Fremont’s mining activities. 

The Pine Tree and Josephine mines, just 1+ mile to the north, produced over 4 million in gold during their time of operation. 

Bear Valley also had its share of disasters, as did all the mining towns along the Mother Lode.  Fire reeked havoc in 1866, 1869, 1897, and 1937. 

Today, Bear Valley is a pleasant little town along the Golden Chain Highway with a great history.

Do you have a photo of Bear Valley that you would like to share?  Send it to our webmaster:  barbara.chamber@sti.net