Renaming at Lake Natoma

Recently, one of the most popular launch spots for paddle boarding in Folsom received a new name. In June of 2022, California State Parks voted to temporarily rename the lakeside recreation area in Folsom, previously known as ‘Negro Bar’, to Black Miners Bar. This decision by the California State Park and Recreation Commission followed years of discussions from local residents and visitors who felt the original name was outdated and offensive. The new name acknowledges the historic contributions of Black miners who camped and prospected in the area during the Gold Rush.

Historically, this site was where African American miners arrived during the California Gold Rush in the 1840s and 1850s. They established one of the first African American mining communities in the region along the shores of Lake Natoma. The park’s original name reflected this history, but many feel that the name no longer aligns with today’s values of inclusivity and respect. The renaming to Black Miners Bar is intended to address these concerns and honor the Black miners who contributed to California’s Gold Rush era.

In addition to renaming the day use area Black Miners Bar, the nearby Lake Natoma launching facility was renamed Polo ‘Oo (Buckeye Rock) in October 2024. This name change, which acknowledges the area’s deep Native American roots, is part of a broader effort by California to reconsider place names and ensure they honor the state’s diverse cultural and historical legacies.

Both of these changes are part of the State Parks’ ongoing Reexamining Our Past initiative, which aims to address and revise outdated and offensive place names across California’s state parks.

"This initiative is not just about changing names, but reevaluating how we engage with history and ensuring that public spaces reflect a more inclusive and accurate understanding of the past."

As the process continues, these name changes represent a broader effort to create a more welcoming environment for all visitors. Through dialogue, research, and collaboration, California State Parks is working to ensure that its public spaces honor the contributions of all communities in a respectful and inclusive way.