Buy Entire California Town Belden for $4.75M
The former gold‑rush town of Bel Den, California, is now on the market for $4.75 million. The four‑acre property houses a hotel, cabins, a restaurant, and event spaces, and sits on a historic gold mine. Owner Ivan Coffman, 87, is selling after his son’s death.
By Felo News Desk · Published
In a rare real‑estate event, the entire former mining town of Bel Den, California, is now for sale at $4.75 million. The four‑acre parcel, located in the Feather River Canyon near Highway 70, contains a fully‑fledged resort complex that includes a hotel, seven guest cabins, a restaurant and bar, and multiple event spaces. The property also sits atop a gold deposit that has been mined by its current owner for decades.
From Gold‑Rush Boom to Quiet Retreat
Bel Den first sprang to life during the California Gold Rush of the mid‑1800s. The town’s name, derived from the nearby Belden Creek, reflected the optimism of prospectors who believed the canyon held rich veins of gold. By the early 20th century, however, the mining boom had faded, and the town’s population dwindled. In 1989, Ivan Coffman, a longtime resident and unofficial mayor, purchased the property and began transforming it into a tourist destination.
Coffman’s vision was to preserve the town’s historic character while offering modern amenities. He restored the original wooden cabins, added a full‑service restaurant, and built an 18‑room hotel. Today, the resort is a popular spot for weekend getaways, weddings, and corporate retreats. The town’s website describes it as a "boutique resort, event venue, music destination, retreat center, glamping property, RV resort, corporate getaway, outdoor recreation hub, or a combination of hospitality uses," highlighting the versatility of the site.
What the Sale Includes
The four‑acre property contains:
- Owner’s quarters and a general store
- Seven guest cabins, each with two to three bedrooms
- An 18‑room hotel with a bar and restaurant featuring a taxidermy‑filled, slot‑machine‑decorated interior
- Multiple outdoor event spaces, including a gazebo and a red‑steel bridge over the Feather River
- Sixteen RV spaces and a five‑acre parcel for additional parking and event support (available separately for $500,000)
With a current population of just 15 people, Bel Den is technically an unincorporated community. The nearest incorporated town is Portola, about an hour’s drive away. Despite its small size, the town’s colorful murals, painted wooden signs, and mid‑20th‑century mechanic’s garage give it a distinct charm that is difficult to replicate elsewhere.
Gold Mining Continues Under New Ownership
Even after decades of running the resort, Coffman has not abandoned his original passion for gold. In 1970, he first visited Bel Den in search of the precious metal, and a flood that year uncovered a large bar of gravel that contained gold. Coffman has continued to mine the river daily, and the property’s gold deposit remains a significant part of its allure.
The sale is being driven in part by personal circumstances. Coffman, 87, announced that he would be selling the town following the death of his son earlier this year. He has planted flowers around the gazebo in memory of his son, adding a poignant touch to the historic site.
What Happens Next?
Potential buyers will need to secure financing and navigate the complexities of purchasing an entire town. The property is listed by a local real‑estate broker, and interested parties can contact the broker for a private showing. The sale also opens the door for new development possibilities, whether the buyer chooses to maintain the resort’s current operations or reimagine the site as a larger event venue or retreat center.
Until a new owner is found, Ivan Coffman will continue to manage the resort and mine for gold. The town remains open to visitors, offering a unique glimpse into California’s mining past and a chance to stay in a place that feels like stepping back in time.
Key facts
- Bel Den is on sale for $4.75 million
- The property includes a hotel, cabins, restaurant, and event spaces
- Owner Ivan Coffman has been mining gold since 1970
- A separate five‑acre parcel is available for $500,000
- The town’s historic charm makes it a rare hospitality destination
Why it matters
Owning a historic town that still produces gold is a unique investment opportunity, blending heritage tourism with natural resource extraction.
Frequently asked questions
What is the exact size of the property?
The main parcel is four acres; an additional five acres are available separately.
Who owns Bel Den?
Ivan Coffman, who purchased it in 1989, is the current owner and is selling it.
Can the town be used for large events?
Yes, the property includes multiple outdoor event spaces suitable for weddings, corporate retreats, and other gatherings.
Is there still gold to mine?
Yes, the site sits on a gold deposit that has been mined daily by the owner.
How many people live in Bel Den?
The population is about 15 residents.
Sources
- [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “Entire California ‘town’ goes on sale for $4. 75M — and it’s sitting on an actual gold mine”
