Site information:

On Spenceville Rd, 3.9 mi E of State Hwy 65, Wheatland

The plaque indicates the actual site is east of here near the Bear River.  Nothing remains of the site, as far as I know.

39.039613,-121.385031

Plaque information:

State plaque

Plaque text:

Overland Emigrant Trail

Approximately 1 1/4 miles east of this site is the historic Johnson's Crossing. This was the first settlement reached west of the Sierra and the last stop on the Overland Emigrant Trail. Used as a camping spot for the pioneers, departure spot for the miners and a sojourning place for trappers, herdsmen and adventurers. The rescue party for the Donner Party was organized and departed from this crossing February 5, 1847.

Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with The Yuba County Historical Society, October 26, 1976.

OHP description:

Over a hundred years ago, this trail resounded to creaking wheels of pioneer wagons and the cries of hardy travelers on their way to the gold fields. It is estimated that over thirty thousand people used this trail in 1849. About a mile and a quarter east of this site is Johnson's Crossing, the last stop on the Overland Emigrant Trail and first settlement west of the Sierra. It was used by pioneers, miners, trappers, herdsmen, and adventurers, rescuers of the Donner Party assembled here to begin their mission on February 5, 1847.

Registered 9/16/1964