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Ancil Hoffman Park: A Natural Oasis Along the American River

Explore nature trails, enjoy river access, and discover local wildlife at this expansive park along the American River in Carmichael, California.

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Ancil Hoffman Park, a sprawling 396-acre regional park in Carmichael, California, offers a diverse landscape of oak woodlands, grasslands, and riverfront access along the American River. Named after former County Supervisor Ancil Hoffman, the park provides a blend of recreational activities and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Ancil Hoffman Park

  • Monday 6 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-7 pm
  • Friday 6 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Effie Yeaw Nature Center to learn about the park's natural history and wildlife.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the park is home to over 100 bird species.
  • Explore the park's trails for hiking, running, or horseback riding.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's scenic picnic areas.
  • Check the Sacramento County Regional Parks website for updates on park closures and construction.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Ancil Hoffman Park is located at 6700 Tarshes Drive in Carmichael, CA. From U.S. Highway 50, take the Watt Avenue off-ramp and head north to Fair Oaks Blvd. Turn right onto Fair Oaks Blvd, then right onto Van Alstine Avenue, and finally left onto California Avenue before turning right into the park entrance. As of July 2025, Ancil Hoffman Park is undergoing road and parking lot repairs, which are expected to last through the end of July. While the park remains closed to general vehicle traffic, access to the Ancil Hoffman Golf Course and Effie Yeaw Nature Center is still available with limited parking. A vehicle fee of $7 is required to enter the park.

  • Public Transport

    Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) offers public transportation options to Ancil Hoffman Park. The SmartRide Arden/Carmichael shuttle provides service to the park. From the nearest bus stop, follow Tarshes Drive to the park entrance. A single-ride fare on SacRT is typically $2.50.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the vicinity of Carmichael, walking to Ancil Hoffman Park is a viable option. From the intersection of Fair Oaks Boulevard and California Avenue, head east on California Avenue until you reach Tarshes Drive. Turn right onto Tarshes Drive and follow it to the park entrance. The walk is approximately 1 mile and takes about 20 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Ancil Hoffman Park

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Discover more about Ancil Hoffman Park

Ancil Hoffman Park is a treasure trove of natural and recreational opportunities in the heart of Carmichael. The park's history dates back to 1960 when Sacramento County acquired the land, formerly known as San Juan Meadows, from the Deterding family. The park is named after Ancil Hoffman, a County Supervisor and manager of heavyweight boxing champion Max Baer. The park's diverse landscape includes ancient oak trees, riparian woodlands, shrublands, and meadows, providing habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors can explore the park's many trails, perfect for hiking, running, and equestrian activities. Birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to spot over 100 species of birds throughout the year. Ancil Hoffman Park is also home to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center, which offers exhibits and educational programs about the natural environment of the American River Parkway. Visitors can learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as the cultural history of the area. The nature center features live animals, a gift shop, and access to marked trails through a preserved nature study area. For those seeking recreational activities, Ancil Hoffman Park boasts an award-winning 18-hole golf course, picnic areas, and river access for small watercraft. The Ancil Hoffman Golf Course, designed by William Bell, opened in 1965 and is known for its mature trees and challenging layout. The park also offers reservable picnic sites for group gatherings. **Note:** As of July 2025, Ancil Hoffman Park is undergoing road and parking lot repairs, which are expected to last through the end of July. While the park remains closed to general vehicle traffic, access to the Ancil Hoffman Golf Course and Effie Yeaw Nature Center is still available with limited parking.

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