Donner Memorial State Park near Truckee tells the story of the Emigrant Trail and the tragic journey of the Donner Party, who were trapped by heavy snow in the Sierra Nevada in the winter of 1846 to 1847. The park sits beside beautiful Donner Lake, with mountain views in every direction. A museum shares the history of the emigrant era and the ordeal of those stranded here, and a monument honors the pioneers. The lakeshore offers swimming, paddling and picnicking in summer, and the campground provides a comfortable base among the pines. Day use is $10 per vehicle, and camping runs $35 to $50 per night. Winter brings snow, which adds an appropriate seriousness to the history.