The Stanislaus River stretches from the Sierra Nevada foothills to the San Joaquin River, with nine developed parks along roughly 20 miles of waterway. Knights Ferry is the hub of activity, home to a 330-foot covered bridge and the main launch point for river rafting. Trips range from beginner-friendly floats suitable for children as young as five to more challenging runs further upstream.
Beyond rafting, the parks offer camping, hiking, fishing, and bird watching. The riverside setting is a genuine escape from Central Valley heat without the long drive into the mountains.