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
First time here! We'll definitely be back, but we'll be more prepared 😉 lots of trails to walk Just make sure to bring bug spray 🦟 🐜
We visited Caswell Memorial State Park for a day-use trip with family. The park is clean, and the rangers were very friendly and helpful. The natural scenery and river access are nice for a relaxing day outdoors. However, the beach area is quite small, and the water was very cold with a fairly strong current, so swimming may not be ideal for everyone, especially young children. The biggest issue was the mosquitoes—they were everywhere and continued biting even after we left the park. If you plan to visit, definitely bring mosquito repellent and protective clothing. Overall, it was an okay experience, but because of the mosquitoes and limited beach area, I personally would not visit again.
I had a wonderful day exploring with an informative guided nature walk and beautiful hiking loops! It was such a rejuvenating experience to be surrounded by such natural beauty. The trails offered a chance to connect with the environment. I highly recommend a visit Caswell Memorial State Park for anyone seeking a peaceful and scenic escape. It's the perfect way to spend a day outdoors right in our own backyard! 🌲☀️
Great little park with several hiking trails, camping, day use areas. Between Modesto and Ripon this is the last place that is preserving how the central valley looked before cattle land and big ag transformed the region.
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.
