Spenceville Wildlife Area:

The Area features outstanding Oak Woodlands with over 30 species of birds, other wildlife, and over 20 varieties of wildflowers. Its low elevation along the rim of the foothills above the Central Valley make this a spring and fall sporting opportunity rarely available on public lands.

Shingle Falls, aka Fairy Falls, on Dry Creek is a great way to begin early spring outings. There are actually two falls: The upper falls commonly known as Fairy Falls is striking with a commanding 60’ drop with a mid-plunge bump and dive. The rust colored walls form a classy frame to the falls ending with a classic pool. The lower falls are about the same height and nearly a twin except for the it is a straight plunge with no bump near the middle.

Specific trails are designated for equestrian or mountain bikes in addition to hiking. In my order of favorites check out any of these 10:

Shingle (aka Fairy) Falls Trail,
Spenceville Lookout Trail,
North Valley Trail,
Pittman Pond Trail,
Dry Creek-Waldo Bridge Trail,
Bunker Trail,
Four Ponds Trail,
Jones Bar Trail,
Walsh Trail,
West Dry Creek Trail.

We've developed a special map for the Spenceville Wildlife Area.

Winter outings are great too, but avoid hot summers except for swimming in the creek or picnicking opportunities at the very rustic campsite. Hunting is available subject to special regulations.
Mountain biking options are summarized under Spenceville: Mountain Biking

In addition to delightful oak woodlands, visitors can glimpse into the unique history of this area.

The first discovery of copper ore in this area was in 1863 but the percentage of mineral was too low, and mining expenses to high to sustain the mine. After several start, the mine finally closed for good in 1918. But the road provided access from Wheetland to Smartville and the little community sustained on an agricultural basis until 1941. In its heyday, approximately 350 residents lived nearby and the town supported a church, Sabbath school, a public school, and a Good Templars Lodge whose goal was to reduce alcohol consumption. In a mining town, no less.

The mine has been fenced off and the grounds are being reclaimed. The mine pit contained 6-million cubic feet of highly acidic water. The pit was drained, soil was placed over the tailings, and native vegetation was planted.

Several homesteads prospered in the rolling foothills and remnants can still be found.

The US Army purchased this area and the site served as a practice bombing range during World War II. The little town served as a mock-German town and was used for training troops in fighting in small communities. West of town several concrete bunkers served troops looking for air attacks from Japan. Several of the bunker structures remain.

In 1962 the military deeded the lands to California resource managers to form the Spenceville Wildlife Area.

Adjacent on the east side of the mine, the old town site lies up Little Dry Creek just above the road/trail. Except for ardent historians, nothing remains. Visitors should never carry away any historic remnants. Where the North Valley Trail intersects from the north, the date of construction was chipped into a large, cornerstone rock that still remains of the old stage stop that dates back to wagon days at this site.

This is a Wildlife Area managed and open to hunting for several species. Other recreationists should avoid the area during the various hunting seasons – especially on opening days and the first two weekends of turkey season. Open seasons span from September 1 through January 31 plus March 27 – May 2. Any use during hunting season should wear proper, bright outerwear