Knights Ferry Recreation Area: A Step Back in Time
Discover Gold Rush history and outdoor adventures at Knights Ferry Recreation Area, home to California's longest covered bridge and scenic Stanislaus River rafting.
Nestled in the scenic foothills of Northern California, Knights Ferry Recreation Area offers a captivating blend of history and outdoor adventure. This expansive park, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, centers around the charming town of Knights Ferry, a preserved Gold Rush-era community. The park's crown jewel is the Knights Ferry Covered Bridge, the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past. Visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy picnicking and BBQing, and embark on river rafting or kayaking trips down the Stanislaus River. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and diverse recreational opportunities, Knights Ferry Recreation Area provides an unforgettable experience for all ages.
A brief summary to Knights Ferry Recreation Area
- Monday 6 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-5 pm
- Thursday 6 am-5 pm
- Friday 6 am-5 pm
- Saturday 6 am-5 pm
- Sunday 6 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early on weekends, especially during peak season, to secure parking as the lots can fill up quickly.
- Check the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website or call ahead to confirm the Knights Ferry Covered Bridge is open, as it occasionally closes for maintenance.
- Bring sunscreen, water, and sturdy shoes suitable for hiking and potentially getting wet if you plan to raft or swim in the Stanislaus River.
- Visit during the fall to witness the annual salmon run on the Stanislaus River, a spectacular natural event.
- Explore the Knights Ferry General Store, believed to be the oldest operating general store in California, for a nostalgic glimpse into the town's Gold Rush past.
Getting There
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Driving
From Oakdale, the nearest major town, head east on CA-120/CA-108 (Yosemite Blvd/Knights Ferry Rd) for approximately 12 miles. Follow the signs for Knights Ferry. As you enter Knights Ferry, continue on Knights Ferry Rd, which becomes Main Street. To reach the main recreation area and visitor center, turn left onto Covered Bridge Road. Parking is available in the recreation area, with a $10 day-use fee per vehicle. Note that parking can be limited on busy weekends.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Oakdale, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) is a convenient option. The ride is approximately 12 miles and takes about 15-20 minutes. Expect to pay around $19-$30 for a standard ride, depending on demand and surge pricing. Be sure to confirm the fare before you start your trip.
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Public Transport
While there is public transportation available from Oakdale to Knights Ferry, it is not direct and requires a combination of bus routes and walking, making it less convenient for most tourists. From the '1st St & Poplar St' stop in Oakdale, it is necessary to walk or take a taxi to Knights Ferry, as the bus does not go directly to the recreation area. The bus ride to the connecting point takes approximately 20 minutes. Consider this option only if you are comfortable with longer travel times and walking.
Discover more about Knights Ferry Recreation Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Willms Ranch
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California Historical Landmark 281: O'Byrne Ferry
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California Historical Landmark No. 423 Chinese Camp
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Historic La Grange Monument
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La Grange (California Historical Landmark #414)
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California Historical Landmark 138: Mark Twain Cabin
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Jamestown (California Historical Landmark #431)
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Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
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Historic Gold Dredge
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California Historical Landmark 769: Birthplace of Archie Stevenot
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California Historical Landmark 274: Carson Hill
27.1 km
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California Historical Landmark 262: Milton
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Angels Camp (California Historical Landmark No. 287)
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California Historical Landmark 734: Angels Hotel
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California Historical Landmark 288: Altaville
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Unmissable attractions to see
STANISLAUS RIVER PARKS
0.1 km
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Information Center
0.1 km
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The Cowboy Museum
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Turlock Lake State Rec Area
22.5 km
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California Gold Panning
24.9 km
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Mark Twain Cabin
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Fox Grove Park
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Freedom Park
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Gold Rush Originals
29.9 km
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Dragoon Gulch Trail Head
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Angels Camp Museum
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Funworks Modesto
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Natural Bridges Trailhead
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East La Loma Park
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Ceres River Bluff Regional Park
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Essential places to dine
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Strings Italian Cafe Modesto
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Rivets American Grill
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Ciao Bella Ristorante
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The Secret Garden
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Wildfire Public House
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The Twisted Pig Bar and Grill
31.4 km
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Bella Italia
31.5 km
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Papapolloni Mediterranean Bistro
33.0 km
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Velvet Grill & Creamery
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Verona's Cucina Italiana
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La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant & Bar
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Papapavlo's Mediterranean Bistro & Bar
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Bauhaus
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Divine Swine Restaurant & Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shaws hole 'n' the Wall
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The Lakes Shopping Center
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American Cancer Society Discovery Shop
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Amy's Hallmark Shop
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Priceless Treasures Thrift Shp
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Funky Town Apparel
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The Boutique
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Royal Robbins Modesto Store
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Marcy's Hallmark Shop
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Spinnaker Lounge
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O'Brian's Tavern
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Tiki Lounge
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The Running Iron
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White Elephant Lounge
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The Boardroom
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Bookies Bar & Grill
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SpeakEasy Lounge
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The Fox Pub
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