In the clearing near the Fremont tree there were several buildings built to host large groups for picnics, dances, and touring. Guests could tie up there carriages across the river and walk over by swinging bridge to acces the area. A favorite of Eastern visitors because of the beautiful redwoods, some groups also camped in the area. This operation went on for 17 years and included a memory of a visit by an elderly John Fremont who was returning to a place at which he camped on his first visit to the area during the Bear Flag revolt. The article has several unique old photos of dinners being held in the trees.