Caswell Memorial State Park
Hours
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Overview
The park is located along the Stanislaus River near the town of Ripon, California. The park protects a fine example of the threatened and still declining riparian oak woodland, which once flourished throughout California's Central Valley. Caswell is home to several endangered animal species, including the riparian brush rabbit which is not known to occur anywhere else.
Several species of fish including bass, catfish, crappie and more await your most enticing fishing technique.
Campfire programs, Junior ranger programs and nature walks are given every weekend throughout the summer. Interpretive walks and talks for school, service and social groups are available by making prior arrangements with park staff.
The Stanislaus River meanders through the park, with beaches and swimming areas near the park’s day use and campground facilities.
One of the most magnificent aspects the park has to offer is its seemingly endless nature trails. The trails allow a glimpse of what the riparian ecosystem of the valley would have looked like in pristine times. A majestic Oak Forest is surrounded by many other lush plant species, some of which are rarely found anywhere else in the area.
The park offers a rich variety of wildlife viewing. While many of the wildlife species here are nocturnal and rarely seen, bird watching is a favorite among nature lovers. Red shouldered and red tailed hawks are often seen, along with dozens of other winged artists.
Hours of Operation:
- Open for year-round day use, 8:00am to sunset
- Entrance station open Spring and Fall weekends, most days May through September
We visited after a big storm and there were dozens of fallen branches and several felled trees which we had to hoist a jogger stroller over. That being said, im not sure there’s much can be done about nature itself lol. Tha being said the restrooms were clean. Not much going on here in the winter. Good overall
Beautiful shady campground a little off the beaten path and worth it. No hookups but we used a spigot to fill trailer water tank. Some sites riverside, all with beach / swimming access. Most sites won't accommodate trailers - parking "pads" too short. Coin ($.25) operated hot showers. $1.50 for 4 1/2 minutes did the trick for me. Very reasonable state park rates. Great overnight stay in transit from SoCal to Washington. Will stay here again.
Lovely views of the Stanislaus river which wends it's way thru the park. Lots of interesting nature, including elderberries and rose hips. This flat walk is marred only by the aggressive mosquito population.
Camp 🏕️ grounds & day use areas are fantastic 🤩 - wish there was more overflow parking 🅿️ for both the campground and day use areas; car fees are $10 dollars. Tent camping sites are 30 and include one vehicle 🛻. $10 for extra vehicle, two spaces. The river is wonderful! 😅 You may see cows 🐄 , chickens 🐓, turtles 🐢, cranes 🦢, etc… along side the waterfront while you float.
Such an amazing campground. Beautiful spacious spots with lots of trees. When kids are out of school its really busy. They have regular bathrooms with water. No water at the spots but there are spickets near. The beach isn't huge but its nice. They kept it well maintained as well. Don't come here to be loud and party. Game warden and sherif patrol often. There are showers also but cost a little bring quarters. Nice picnic tables and fire pits. Enjoy
