Information Center:
Located in historic Knights Ferry, the information center describes the rich history of the Stanislaus River and surrounding area. Display topics include salmon life cycles, Native American culture, the nearby covered bridge and a century-old flour mill. A short video introduction to the parks is available for viewing. Special programs may be set up by calling the park office.
Environmental Camping:
Three campgrounds offer a unique camping experience for groups or individuals. Access is by boat, foot, or bicycle only. Campgrounds at Horseshoe Road, Valley Oak and McHenry Avenue Recreation Areas provide picnic tables, restrooms, garbage cans and fire pits. Drinking water is available only at the McHenry Avenue Recreation Area. Camping is by permit only and reservations are recommended.
Boating:
The four miles of rapids above Knights Ferry draw white-water enthusiasts from throughout the world. Experience and professional quality white-water equipment are required as some rapids are classified for teams of experts only. The river below Knights Ferry offers more tranquil boating for less experienced water enthusiasts. Bring your own or rent equipment from one of several local concessionaires. The use of motorized boats is limited
Check the river flow before boating
|
Stanislaus River Boating Regulations
|
| From |
To |
|
| Goodwin Dam |
Horseshoe Road |
No motors allowed |
| Horseshoe Road Recreation Area |
Orange Blossom Recreation Area |
Electric motors only |
|
Orange Blossom Recreation Area
|
Highway 120 Bridge (Oakdale) |
10 Horsepower gas motors
5 mph speed limit |
| Highway 120 Bridge |
San Joaquin River |
No restrictions |
Fishing:
The river is open to fishing from January 1 to March 31, and the fourth Saturday in May to October 31 each year. Trout, smallmouth bass, striped bass, carp, channel and white catfish and black crappie tempt anglers. Special regulations restrict bait, size and possession limits. The entire river is closed to fishing from November 1 to December 31 for protection of the fall Chinook salmon run.
Day Use:
The possibilities are endless - hiking, boating, photography, picnicking, fishing, wildlife viewing and camping are but a few examples. All parks offer picnicking facilities, restrooms and access to the river. Historic buildings and access to the upper river canyon draw visitors to the Knights Ferry Recreation Area, but visitors to the lower parks will enjoy the quiet river landscape. Come and explore!
Hiking:
Hiking trails in Goodwin Canyon, Knights Ferry, Orange Blossom, Valley Oak and McHenry Avenue offer short tours of lush river woodlands. Preservation of the natural habitat is a major objective of the Stanislaus River Park System.
Fees:
The Corps of Engineers is now included in the America the Beautiful interagency pass! For a one time purchase of $80, you have access to all of your favorite Corps parks in addition to all the other federal public lands and national parks for one year after the date of purchase.
Individuals 62 years or older can buy a $10 lifetime senior pass, which does not expire. All other passes and kids 15 years or younger are free of charge at all federal recreation areas. Senior and access pass holders also receive a 50 percent discount on campsites at Corps-managed campgrounds.
Be sure to pick up your America the Beautiful pass at any of our parks as the money is turned right around and invested in the facilities to improve your recreational experience.
Get details about the America the Beautiful pass series here http://1.usa.gov/1T6TRMt.
Day Use Fee: $5
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sells an annual pass for $40. The Corps Annual Pass gives unlimited access to day-use areas at any Corps park for one calendar year, and is sold at all Corps parks.
| Environmental Camping* |
Group Camp |
Group Picnic |
Special Use |
| $10 |
$40 |
$40 - $50 |
$75-100 |
| * - Access by boat, foot or bicycle only |