Folsom State Prison

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Location: California

Official opening: 1880

Capacity: 2469

Website: http://cdcr.ca.gov/Facilities_Locator/FSP.html

GPS coordinates: 38.69500,-121.16250

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:00