Knights Ferry Recreation Area: A Step Back in Time
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.
Nestled along the Stanislaus River, Knights Ferry Recreation Area offers a blend of natural beauty and Gold Rush history. The park's centerpiece is the iconic Knights Ferry Covered Bridge, the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi. Visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy picnicking and BBQ facilities, and learn about the area's past at the visitor center. The Stanislaus River provides opportunities for rafting and kayaking, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its historical charm and recreational activities, Knights Ferry provides a memorable experience for all ages. The park is open from 6:00 a.m. to sunset, offering a full day of exploration and relaxation. A visit to Knights Ferry is a journey into California's past, combined with the enjoyment of its present-day natural wonders.
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
- Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking or rafting.
- Check the river conditions before planning a rafting trip, especially if you are going without a commercial company.
- Explore the Knights Ferry General Store for a nostalgic glimpse into the past and unique souvenirs.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking and walking on uneven terrain.
Getting There
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Driving
From Oakdale, CA, head east on CA-120/CA-108 for approximately 11 miles. Turn left onto Kennedy Road, following signs for Knights Ferry/Stanislaus River Parks. After about 0.2 miles, turn left onto Sonora Road. The Knights Ferry Recreation Area will be on your left before you cross the bridge. Parking is available in the recreation area, with a day-use fee of $10 per vehicle, payable at the kiosk. Note that the covered bridge is currently closed for repairs.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Oakdale, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) to Knights Ferry Recreation Area will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Expect to pay around $19-$30 for a one-way trip, depending on the service and time of day. The driver can drop you off at the parking lot entrance of the recreation area.
Discover more about Knights Ferry Recreation Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Willms Ranch
2.8 km
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California Historical Landmark 281: O'Byrne Ferry
12.1 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
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Historic La Grange Monument
24.4 km
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La Grange (California Historical Landmark #414)
25.0 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
25.3 km
Explore the historic Mark Twain Cabin in Sonora, California, where literary history meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Jamestown (California Historical Landmark #431)
25.8 km
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Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
26.2 km
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Historic Gold Dredge
26.5 km
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California Historical Landmark 769: Birthplace of Archie Stevenot
27.0 km
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California Historical Landmark 274: Carson Hill
27.1 km
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California Historical Landmark 262: Milton
28.8 km
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Angels Camp (California Historical Landmark No. 287)
29.8 km
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California Historical Landmark 734: Angels Hotel
29.8 km
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California Historical Landmark 288: Altaville
30.4 km
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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
16.9 km
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Turlock Lake State Rec Area
22.5 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
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Fox Grove Park
27.2 km
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Freedom Park
28.3 km
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Gold Rush Originals
29.9 km
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Dragoon Gulch Trail Head
30.2 km
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Angels Camp Museum
30.4 km
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Funworks Modesto
30.4 km
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Natural Bridges Trailhead
31.0 km
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East La Loma Park
32.1 km
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Ceres River Bluff Regional Park
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Essential places to dine
Squeeze In
28.8 km
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Strings Italian Cafe Modesto
30.1 km
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Rivets American Grill
30.3 km
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Ciao Bella Ristorante
30.7 km
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The Secret Garden
30.8 km
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Wildfire Public House
30.8 km
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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
33.0 km
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Verona's Cucina Italiana
33.3 km
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La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant & Bar
33.3 km
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Papapavlo's Mediterranean Bistro & Bar
33.9 km
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Bauhaus
34.4 km
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Divine Swine Restaurant & Bar
34.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shaws hole 'n' the Wall
29.5 km
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The Lakes Shopping Center
30.1 km
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American Cancer Society Discovery Shop
32.3 km
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Amy's Hallmark Shop
32.3 km
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Celebrating You Shop
32.5 km
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INCREDIBLE FINDS 209
32.5 km
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Priceless Treasures Thrift Shp
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FYE
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Chasing Nostalgia
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Funky Town Apparel
33.1 km
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The Boutique
33.1 km
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Royal Robbins Modesto Store
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Eve & Me
33.2 km
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Mulberry Lane
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Marcy's Hallmark Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Tap Room Pub and Grub
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Donoby’s Bar
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Low Key Saloon
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P Wexford's Pub
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Spinnaker Lounge
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June bugs bar
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Vieira's Lounge
33.1 km
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O'Brian's Tavern
33.7 km
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Tiki Lounge
34.0 km
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The Running Iron
34.3 km
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White Elephant Lounge
34.6 km
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The Boardroom
34.8 km
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Bookies Bar & Grill
35.3 km
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SpeakEasy Lounge
35.3 km
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The Fox Pub
35.4 km
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