Stanislaus River Parks: A Gold Rush Oasis
Discover the beauty and history of California's Gold Country at Stanislaus River Parks, offering outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes along the Stanislaus River near Knights Ferry.
Escape to the scenic Stanislaus River Parks, a collection of recreation areas nestled along the historic Stanislaus River near Knights Ferry, California. This park system offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, from hiking and picnicking to rafting and exploring remnants of the Gold Rush era. Discover the iconic Knights Ferry Covered Bridge, the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi, and immerse yourself in the area's rich history at the Knights Ferry Information Center. Whether you're seeking a relaxing day by the river or an adventurous exploration of the Sierra Nevada foothills, Stanislaus River Parks provides a memorable experience for all ages. With its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, it's a perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
A brief summary to STANISLAUS RIVER PARKS
- 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
- Visit the Knights Ferry Information Center to learn about the area's history, wildlife, and recreational opportunities.
- Check the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website for updates on river conditions, closures, and events.
- Bring sunscreen, water, and insect repellent, especially during the summer months.
- Consider visiting during the spring or fall for milder weather and fewer crowds.
- Explore the hiking trails along the river for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Getting There
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Driving
From Oakdale, take CA-108/CA-120 East for approximately 12 miles to Kennedy Road. Follow the signs to the Stanislaus River Parks headquarters. Note that parking at the Knights Ferry Recreation Area costs $10 per vehicle for day use, payable at the kiosk upon arrival. Parking areas are under surveillance. Be aware that on busy weekends, supplemental parking may be needed in surrounding lots at Knights Ferry.
Discover more about STANISLAUS RIVER PARKS
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Willms Ranch
2.8 km
Experience the charm of early California ranch life at The Willms Ranch, a State Historical Landmark showcasing the enduring legacy of pioneer settlers.
California Historical Landmark 281: O'Byrne Ferry
12.2 km
Discover O'Byrne Ferry, a historical landmark in Copperopolis, California, where history meets nature in an unforgettable Gold Rush experience.
California Historical Landmark No. 423 Chinese Camp
21.4 km
Explore Chinese Camp, California's historical landmark, rich in Gold Rush legacy, charming architecture, and breathtaking Sierra Nevada landscapes.
Historic La Grange Monument
24.4 km
Explore the Historic La Grange Monument, a captivating landmark revealing the rich history of California's gold rush era amidst stunning natural beauty.
La Grange (California Historical Landmark #414)
25.1 km
Explore La Grange Historical Landmark #414, a serene historical gem in California, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty.
California Historical Landmark 138: Mark Twain Cabin
25.4 km
Explore the historic Mark Twain Cabin in Sonora, California, where literary history meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Jamestown (California Historical Landmark #431)
25.9 km
Explore the rich history of Jamestown, California, a charming historical landmark filled with Gold Rush-era stories and preserved architecture.
Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
26.2 km
Discover the historic Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, where vintage trains come to life in the heart of California's Sierra Nevada foothills.
Historic Gold Dredge
26.6 km
Discover the fascinating history of gold mining at the Historic Gold Dredge in La Grange, CA, where adventure and education await every visitor.
California Historical Landmark 769: Birthplace of Archie Stevenot
27.0 km
Explore the Birthplace of Archie Stevenot, a California Historical Landmark that celebrates the rich history and cultural heritage of Angels Camp.
California Historical Landmark 274: Carson Hill
27.1 km
Experience the allure of the Gold Rush at Carson Hill, a historical landmark in California that unveils the rich tapestry of the state's heritage.
California Historical Landmark 262: Milton
28.7 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of California Historical Landmark 262: Milton in Farmington, a perfect escape for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Angels Camp (California Historical Landmark No. 287)
29.8 km
Explore Angels Camp, a historical landmark in California's Gold Rush country, where rich history meets stunning natural beauty.
California Historical Landmark 734: Angels Hotel
29.8 km
Explore the Angels Hotel, a historic landmark in Angels Camp, California, where the spirit of the Gold Rush era comes alive amidst charming architecture.
California Historical Landmark 288: Altaville
30.4 km
Discover Altaville, a captivating historical landmark in Angels Camp, California, steeped in rich Gold Rush history and fascinating stories of yesteryear.
Unmissable attractions to see
Information Center
0.0 km
Discover the heart of California's Gold Country at Knights Ferry, where history meets outdoor adventure along the scenic Stanislaus River.
Knights Ferry Recreation Area
0.1 km
Discover California's Gold Rush history and natural beauty at Knights Ferry Recreation Area, home to the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi and the scenic Stanislaus River.
The Cowboy Museum
16.9 km
Explore the rich history of the American West at The Cowboy Museum in Oakdale, California, where cowboy culture comes to life through engaging exhibits and authentic memorabilia.
Turlock Lake State Rec Area
22.6 km
Explore Turlock Lake State Recreation Area, a serene retreat for outdoor activities, picnics, and wildlife watching in the heart of California.
California Gold Panning
24.9 km
Experience the thrill of panning for gold in Jamestown, California, and connect with the rich history of the Gold Rush era.
Mark Twain Cabin
26.0 km
Discover the Mark Twain Cabin, a historic landmark that brings the literary legacy of America’s favorite author to life amidst the stunning Sierra Nevada landscapes.
Fox Grove Park
27.2 km
Explore the natural beauty of Fox Grove Park in Hughson, California, a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking relaxation.
Freedom Park
28.3 km
Discover Freedom Park in Modesto, CA: A vibrant community hub with lush landscapes, recreational amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages, perfect for relaxation and recreation.
Gold Rush Originals
29.9 km
Explore the enchanting history of the Gold Rush at Gold Rush Originals, a captivating tourist attraction in Angels Camp, California.
Dragoon Gulch Trail Head
30.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Dragoon Gulch Trail Head in Sonora, CA—a perfect hiking destination for all nature lovers.
Angels Camp Museum
30.4 km
Discover California's Gold Rush history at Angels Camp Museum: Explore exhibits, carriages, and Mark Twain's legacy in a captivating historical park experience for all ages.
Funworks Modesto
30.4 km
Experience a world of family fun at Funworks Modesto, with go-karts, mini-golf, arcade games, and more, creating lasting memories for all ages in a safe and welcoming environment.
Natural Bridges Trailhead
31.0 km
Discover natural limestone caves, hike scenic trails, and swim in refreshing waters at Natural Bridges near Vallecito, California.
East La Loma Park
32.1 km
Discover Modesto's vibrant outdoor haven at East La Loma Park, offering scenic trails, sports facilities, playgrounds, and a disc golf course for a perfect blend of recreation and relaxation.
Ceres River Bluff Regional Park
32.7 km
Experience the natural beauty of Ceres River Bluff Regional Park, a perfect retreat for outdoor activities and family fun in California.
Essential places to dine
Squeeze In
28.7 km
Discover Squeeze In: A beloved breakfast restaurant in Modesto offering creative American cuisine in a fun and inviting atmosphere.
Strings Italian Cafe Modesto
30.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Strings Italian Cafe Modesto—where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Rivets American Grill
30.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Rivets American Grill in Modesto - where flavor meets fun in every dish!
Ciao Bella Ristorante
30.7 km
Experience authentic Italian fine dining at Ciao Bella Ristorante in Modesto - where every dish tells a story.
The Secret Garden
30.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The Secret Garden in Modesto – where fresh ingredients meet delightful flavors.
Wildfire Public House
30.8 km
Experience culinary creativity at Wildfire Public House in Modesto—where every meal tells a flavorful story.
The Twisted Pig Bar and Grill
31.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at The Twisted Pig Bar and Grill in Modesto - perfect for family gatherings or a night out with friends.
Bella Italia
31.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bella Italia in Modesto—where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Papapolloni Mediterranean Bistro
32.9 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Papapolloni Bistro in Modesto – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Velvet Grill & Creamery
33.0 km
Experience delightful breakfast and grill dishes at Velvet Grill & Creamery in Modesto – a culinary gem for food lovers!
Verona's Cucina Italiana
33.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Verona's Cucina Italiana in Modesto - where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant & Bar
33.3 km
Savor authentic Mexican flavors at La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant & Bar in Modesto - where every meal is a fiesta!
Papapavlo's Mediterranean Bistro & Bar
33.9 km
Savor authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Papapavlo's Bistro & Bar in Modesto – where every dish tells a story.
Bauhaus
34.3 km
Experience exquisite tapas at Bauhaus in Modesto - where flavor meets creativity in every dish.
Divine Swine Restaurant & Bar
34.5 km
Experience exquisite dining at Divine Swine Restaurant & Bar in Modesto, where local flavors meet exceptional service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shaws hole 'n' the Wall
29.5 km
Discover unique treasures at Shaws Hole 'n' the Wall, Modesto's charming thrift store with a delightful array of vintage and eclectic finds.
The Lakes Shopping Center
30.1 km
Discover shopping, dining, and entertainment at The Lakes Shopping Center in Modesto, California, your ultimate retail destination.
American Cancer Society Discovery Shop
32.3 km
Explore the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop in Modesto for unique thrift finds and support a vital cause in the fight against cancer.
Amy's Hallmark Shop
32.3 km
Explore unique gifts, festive decorations, and heartfelt cards at Amy's Hallmark Shop in Modesto, California, your go-to destination for every occasion.
Celebrating You Shop
32.4 km
Explore Celebrating You Shop in Modesto, CA, for an exquisite selection of stylish handbags that reflect your unique fashion sense.
INCREDIBLE FINDS 209
32.5 km
Discover unique treasures at Incredible Finds 209, Modesto's top thrift store offering vintage clothing, decor & unbeatable prices.
Priceless Treasures Thrift Shp
32.7 km
Explore Priceless Treasures Thrift Shop in Modesto for unique finds and sustainable shopping experiences, perfect for treasure hunters and bargain lovers.
FYE
32.7 km
Explore the ultimate variety store in Modesto, offering books, music, electronics, toys, and unique collectibles for all ages.
Chasing Nostalgia
33.0 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and memorable souvenirs at Chasing Nostalgia, Modesto's beloved thrift store, perfect for treasure hunters and casual shoppers alike.
Funky Town Apparel
33.1 km
Explore Funky Town Apparel in Modesto, California, for trendy clothing and unique styles that express your individuality and flair.
The Boutique
33.1 km
Explore The Boutique in Modesto for stylish women's clothing and personalized shopping experiences in a charming atmosphere.
Royal Robbins Modesto Store
33.1 km
Explore high-quality outdoor clothing at Royal Robbins Modesto Store, perfect for adventure seekers and fashion enthusiasts in California.
Eve & Me
33.2 km
Discover the charm of Eve & Me, a family-owned women's clothing boutique in Modesto, offering unique fashion pieces and personalized service.
Mulberry Lane
33.2 km
Explore Mulberry Lane, Modesto's charming gift shop with unique home decor, jewelry, and thoughtful gifts perfect for every occasion.
Marcy's Hallmark Shop
33.2 km
Explore Marcy's Hallmark Shop in Modesto for unique gifts, cards, and seasonal decorations that make every occasion special.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Tap Room Pub and Grub
26.8 km
Discover the local flavors and vibrant atmosphere at The Tap Room Pub and Grub, a must-visit culinary spot in Modesto, CA.
Donoby’s Bar
30.7 km
Experience the lively atmosphere, great drinks, and friendly service at Donoby’s Bar in Modesto, California, your perfect nightlife destination.
Low Key Saloon
31.9 km
Discover the lively ambiance and engaging karaoke at Low Key Saloon in Modesto, California - the perfect spot for great drinks and unforgettable nights.
P Wexford's Pub
32.5 km
Experience the heart of Modesto at P Wexford's Pub, where delicious food and vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable dining experience.
Spinnaker Lounge
32.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Spinnaker Lounge in Modesto, where refreshing drinks and great company come together for an unforgettable night.
June bugs bar
32.9 km
June Bugs Bar in Modesto offers a classic dive bar experience with a lively atmosphere, extensive drink menu, and friendly locals to enhance your night out.
Vieira's Lounge
33.1 km
Experience Modesto's nightlife at Vieira's Lounge, a cocktail bar with great drinks, friendly service, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
O'Brian's Tavern
33.6 km
Discover O'Brian's Tavern, Modesto's favorite bar for affordable drinks, live entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Tiki Lounge
34.0 km
Discover Tiki Lounge in Modesto: A vibrant cocktail bar offering a tropical atmosphere, unique drinks, and unforgettable nightlife experiences.
The Running Iron
34.3 km
Discover the energetic vibe of The Running Iron, Modesto's go-to cocktail bar, serving creative drinks in a lively atmosphere.
White Elephant Lounge
34.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at White Elephant Lounge, where exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable moments in Modesto, California.
The Boardroom
34.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Boardroom, a premier bar in Downtown Modesto with live music, craft cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bookies Bar & Grill
35.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious fare at Bookies Bar & Grill, a top spot in Modesto for food and fun.
SpeakEasy Lounge
35.2 km
Experience the spirit of Modesto at SpeakEasy Lounge, where craft cocktails, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere await you.
The Fox Pub
35.3 km
Experience the essence of local flavor at The Fox Pub, a lively bar and restaurant in Downtown Modesto, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
