River Bend Park
The Parkway is a popular destination for people who fish, bike, walk, jog, and float down the American River in rafts, kayaks, and canoes. A great post ahead.
The park is also a popular outdoor education site for schools, with lessons in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Students learn living and non-living identification and participate in a scavenger hunt to identify native and invasive species on the Parkway.
1. Pedestrian Area
River Bend Park is a popular stop for people who enjoy white water rafting on the American River. It is a huge beachfront park that offers plenty of parking and great places to relax after a day on the water.
The park is also home to several other spots for recreational activities such as horseback riding and hiking. The park is also home to the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail.
2. Boat Launch
The boat launch at River Bend Park is a great place to start a day on the water. The long central road paralleling the river links you to this park’s many recreation facilities including a bright green, carefully cared-for picnic area.
Wild turkeys rustle in the grass beneath young oaks, and there are many nature trails that weave through riparian habitats, oak woodlands, and grassland areas. This is one of Sacramento’s oldest county parks and offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities.
3. Fishing
The Sacramento River is one of California’s most scenic waterways, and it also boasts a huge variety of fish. It’s a vital spawning ground for salmon and steelhead, but it’s also home to many other species that represent crucial parts of the local ecosystem.
Spawning stripers are a popular target among anglers, and spring is the best time to catch them. Using minnow-imitating plugs and natural offerings like herring and shad is a common strategy while side-drifting salmon roe along the bottom is another option that works well from a drift boat. Visit another area in town here.
4. Camping
Located on the American River Parkway, this 3.58-acre park is the perfect place to unwind after a day of whitewater rafting. Plentiful trees offer cool shade during the summer heat while abundant grass pampers bare feet.
The best part is you don’t even need a tent to do so. It’s a popular stop for tourists and locals alike. The best time to visit is during the summer when river flow and corresponding parking demands are at their peak.
5. Picnicking
River Bend Park is a must-see for anyone planning a rafting trip down the American River. It has a huge beachfront and a large grassy shady park to soak up the sun after your day of fun on the water.
One of the most impressive features is the state-of-the-art outdoor education facility. The main display is a great way to teach students about the park and its many natural and cultural features. The best part is it is free and open to the public!
6. Hiking
Located on the northern end of the American River Parkway, this 444-acre park is one of the original areas purchased by the County in the 1960s. It offers a variety of recreation facilities and beautiful landscapes.
Hiking is a great way to explore the park. It features many trails that take you along the shoulder of the American River and into oak woodlands and grassland areas.
7. Biking
If you’re a fan of biking, there are several great spots to ride at River Bend Park in Sacramento CA. A bike trail connects the parking area with Bannister Park, and a service road and a network of informal trails nearer the river await exploration.
Low bluffs overlook the American River, and cottonwoods, live oaks, and valley oaks shade much of the horse trail. There are also a few miles of paved bike trails that wind through riparian forests.
8. Horseback Riding
River Bend Park is one of the best places to go horseback riding in Sacramento CA. It offers several trails suited for riders of all abilities and sizes, from beginner to advanced.
The park is also home to the River Bend Outdoor Education Site. This is a great place for kids to learn about STEM, nature, and the natural environment. It is a popular location for schools in the area to host lessons and field trips.
9. Camping
River Bend Park is one of Sacramento’s oldest county parks. A long central road parallels the American River, and wild turkeys and deer rustle in the grass beneath young oaks. It also has a bright green, carefully cared-for picnic area.
Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature. River Bend Park has spacious campsites that are well-kept and comfy. If you are looking for an RV or tent camping spot, this is a good place to check out. Find out more!
Driving directions from The Lighting Geek to River Bend Park
Driving directions from River Bend Park to Hagan Community Park