Stanislaus River Parks
RV Guide
Introduction
Located in California’s Central Valley, Stanislaus River Parks is a network of recreational areas with some of the best fishing, white water rafting, and boating in the area. The area near the river is home to a broad range of wildlife, including dozens of bird and mammal species. You can see deer as they come down to the water for a drink, as well as river otters along the banks of the river. Common catches in the river include smallmouth bass, trout,
The main draw to the Stanislaus River Parks is the rapids. The river has miles of challenging rapids located just north of Knights Ferry. If you want something a bit more relaxing, you can head south along the river, where the water is much more suited to kayaking and canoeing.
The main RV camping option in the area is Stanislaus River Campground, located a little over an hour away from the parks. With 25 basic sites, it’s a secluded RV getaway where you can enjoy nature without any distractions. If you want to stay closer to Knights Ferry, there are three tent campgrounds located closer to the heart of the parks
RV Rentals in Stanislaus River Parks
Transportation
Driving
Located just outside of Modesto, California, the Stanislaus River Parks are a quick drive from San Francisco and Sacramento. The hub of the parks is found near Knights Ferry, which is about a 45 minute drive from Modesto. The main RV campground in the area is about
If you are coming from Sacramento, take I-5 south from the city and you’ll get to the river in just under two hours. From San Francisco, take I-580 east out of the city and you’ll arrive in a little over two hours.
The parks stretch along Stanislaus River, which runs alongside CA-108. You should have few issues reaching Stanislaus River Campground by RV, as all of the roads are paved and well maintained. Ice is rare, although the roads may occasionally freeze over at night during the winter.
Parking
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in Stanislaus River Parks
Campsites in Stanislaus River Parks
First-come first-served
Stanislaus River Campground
This secluded site is home to 25 sites, none of which have hookups of any kind. All of the sites have picnic tables, and you’ll also have access pump water stations and vault toilets.
Hiking is the main attraction to the campground, with dozens of miles of trails cutting through the pine forests surrounding the campground. Birdwatching is also popular, as there are hundreds of bird species that live in the forests surrounding the campground.
All of the sites in the campground are first come, first served. Although there are usually open spots, you should try to arrive early if you visit during the weekend in the summer. The campground is located in Stanislaus National Forest, which is about 80 miles from the Stanislaus River State Parks.
Seasonal activities in Stanislaus River Parks
Off-Season
Information Center
If you want more information on the natural history of the park, head over to the information center near Knights Ferry. The center has a range of exhibits that walk you through the area’s unique history and ecosystems. You’ll learn about the salmon life cycles and how they swim up the Stanislaus River, as well as about the Native American culture of Northern California.
The visitor center has a number of rotating exhibits throughout the year, so check their website for more information on current events.
Wildlife Viewing
The Stanislaus River supports a diverse ecosystem, and is home to dozens of species of mammals. Deer are commonly seen along the banks of the river, and you’ll also be able to spot otters, foxes, and rabbits.
The area near the river is also home to a vast range of tree and plant species. The forests by the banks of the river consist mainly of California black oak and valley oak. The river also supports dozens of plant species that are not found anywhere else in the Central Valley.
Birdwatching
The area along the Stanislaus River is home to a great diversity of bird species, making it a favorite weekend getaway for local birdwatchers. Great blue herons and white egrets are some of the most common sights, and you'll also be able to spot kingfishers, cliff swallows, and falcons.
Fishing
The Stanislaus River Parks are a popular local getaway for anglers. The waters are teeming with a wide range of fish species, so you’ll always get a bite. Common catches include smallmouth bass, trout, white and channel catfish, carp, and striped bass.
The river is only open to fishing for a limited period, usually running from early January to the end of March, and then from late May to early November. Most of the river is closed from November to January to protect Chinook salmon.
In-Season
Boating
You can also find calmer waters south of Knights Ferry, should you want to relax and enjoy a long kayak or canoe trip. The banks of the river provide plenty of shade, with tall valley oaks leaning over the water.
Rentals are offered from a number of locations throughout the parks. Small motorized boats are allowed on parts of the river, although they are rarely used.
Hiking
The green, lush woodlands surrounding the Stanislaus River make for excellent hiking just about any time of the year. Most of the trails in the parks are short, designed to accommodate hikers of all ages and experience levels.
Hiking is excellent throughout the year, although many people prefer to visit in the spring and fall, when temperatures are at their most comfortable.
Rafting
There are over four miles of rapids located just north of Knight’s Ferry, making the Stanislaus River Parks one of the best destinations in the region for white water rafting. The rapids to the north are rate for experts, so anyone new to white water rafting should come with a guide.
There are a number of concessionaires that rent rafting equipment near Knights Ferry. You’ll need full white water rafting gear if you plan on taking the rapids.
