McKay, Calaveras County, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
McKay
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 McKay
Location in California
McKay
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Calaveras County |
| Elevation | 4,180 ft (1,274 m) |
McKay is a small place in Calaveras County, California. It is known as an unincorporated community. This means it's a group of homes or buildings that isn't officially a town or city. It doesn't have its own local government like a mayor or city council. Instead, the county government helps manage things for McKay.
McKay is located high up in the mountains. It sits at an elevation of 4,180 feet (which is about 1,274 meters) above sea level. Imagine climbing a really tall hill! It is also part of a larger area called Arnold CDP. A CDP stands for "Census-Designated Place." This is a special area the government uses for counting people in a census. It helps them collect information about communities that aren't official cities.
Contents
What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community is a place where people live together. However, it does not have its own city government. Instead, the larger county government takes care of services. These services include things like roads, police, and fire protection.
How is it Different from a City?
A city has its own elected leaders. These leaders make decisions just for that city. They also have their own city departments. An unincorporated community does not have these things. It relies on the county for everything.
Where is Calaveras County?
McKay is found in Calaveras County. This county is in the central part of California. It is known for its beautiful natural areas. It also has a rich history from the California Gold Rush. Many people visit the county for outdoor activities.
The Gold Rush Connection
During the 1800s, many people came to California. They were looking for gold. Calaveras County was one of the main places where gold was found. This history shaped many communities there.
Understanding Elevation
Elevation tells us how high a place is. It is measured from sea level. Sea level is the average height of the ocean's surface. McKay's elevation of 4,180 feet means it is quite high up. This can affect the weather and the types of plants that grow there.
Why is Elevation Important?
Elevation can influence many things. It affects temperature, air pressure, and even rainfall. Places with higher elevation are often cooler. They might also get more snow in winter.
