Folsom State Prison, Maximum security prison in Represa, California, US.
Description
Folsom State Prison is a maximum security facility in Represa, California, United States. The compound features five housing units within a secure perimeter, combining historical granite structures with modern buildings distributed across the grounds.
History
Construction began in 1878, and the first inmates arrived two years later, making this the second oldest facility of its kind in California. Inmate labor built the first dam and power plant on the American River, supplying electricity to the area.
Culture
Johnny Cash gave two concerts inside the facility on January 13, 1968, which were recorded and later released as At Folsom Prison. Those performances brought the institution into popular culture and shaped how people around the world imagine California correctional facilities.
Practical
Visitor access is tightly controlled and requires advance approval from the administration. The Greystone Adult School operates on the grounds, offering inmates courses in welding, auto mechanics, and electronics alongside academic programs.
Did you know?
In addition to electricity, the facility supplied water to nearby communities for decades. The granite blocks for the original walls were quarried and shaped on site by convict labor.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (California).
American River
1.7 km
Mather Air Force Base
19.6 km
Folsom Lake
3.8 km
U.S. Route 50 in California
6 km
Folsom Dam
1.5 km
Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park
2 km
SeaQuest Folsom
6.1 kmFolsom City Zoo Sanctuary
1.3 km
Roseville Golfland Sunsplash
11.1 km
Fair Oaks Bridge
11.1 km
Pine Hill Ecological Reserve
15.1 km
All-American Speedway
13.1 km
Scandia Fun Center
18 km
Griffith Quarry
17.4 kmCarpenter Hill
7.5 km
Maidu Museum & Historic Site
8.7 km
Jensen Botanical Gardens
15.1 km
American River Grange Hall No. 172
14.4 km
Cohn House
2.1 km
Faith Episcopal Church
13.9 km
Rusch Botanical Gardens
12 km
Sacramento Children's Museum
15.8 km
Alden Memorial Bridge
1.8 km
Scandia Family Fun Center
18 km
Griffith Quarry Park & Museum
17.2 km
Historic Opera House
2.3 km
Rainbow Bridge
1.8 km
Folsom Lake Crossing
1 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes