Wonderclub's California, USA, locator map

California Details

Description: In 1579 Sir Francis Drake explored the rugged coastline and claimed it for Queen Elizabeth. Spanish missionaries followed in the mid-1700s, and then in 1825 Mexico took control, then relinquished its grip in 1848. Soon after California was granted statehood, and in the minds of most, became the most famous of all the states.

As the most populated state, it's a land of many contrasts, including high mountains (Sierra Nevada), sandy beaches and the Pacific Ocean, redwood forests and dry deserts. Famed for its cities and lifestyles, California is one of the most unique destinations on the planet.

Facts and Figures

Statehood September 9, 1850 (31st state)

Capital Sacramento

Population 33,147,000

Nickname Golden State

Motto Eureka, "I have found it"

Bird California Valley Quail

Flower Golden Poppy

Song "I Love You, California"

Land

Area 163,707 sq miles

Coastline - Shoreline 840 miles - 3,428 miles

Number of Counties 58

Highest Point Mt. Whitney, 14,494 ft

Lowest Point Death Valley, -282 ft

Maps and more...

Current Time here

State Flag here

California Image & Flag here

California County Map here

California Outline Map here

California Maps by University of Texas, here

Name all the States & Capitol Cities a test, here

Recommended Links

California State Parks web site

State of California web site

Weather current conditions in Sacramento