The lush Caswell Memorial State Park is set along the graceful bends of the Stanislaus River. Located in Ripon, California, it is a hidden oasis in the heart of California’s Central Valley. A century ago, this park began with 134 acres donated by Thomas Caswell’s family to preserve riparian oak woodlands. Today it spans 258 acres, offering riverside camping, shaded trails, and a living refuge for endangered wildlife.
What Makes Caswell Memorial State Park Unique
Caswell Memorial safeguards one of the region’s last mature riparian oak woodlands—a habitat once widespread but now rare. Home to the endangered riparian brush rabbit and a variety of hawks, herons, and songbirds, the park delivers a chance to reconnect with Central Valley nature. The Stanislaus River carves through the grove, creating sandy beaches and gentle rapids ideal for swimming, fishing, and tubing. Historical layers—from Native American land to Spanish-era trails—offer a rich cultural backdrop.
Top Activities & Amenities
Campsites & RV Sites
The campground features 64 family-friendly sites and one group site with paved spurs, picnic tables, fire rings, and built-in camp stoves. RVs (up to ~24 ft) are welcome without hookups—water is at central spigots, and a dump station serves campers nearby. Pets on leash are okay in the campground but not along riverbanks or trails.
River Swimming, Fishing & Boating
Two sandy beaches—Willow Beach in the day-use area and Salmon Bend in the campground—offer safe swimming access. The river supports bass, catfish, crappie, and seasonal salmon. Bring your tube, kayak, or canoe; small non-motorized vessels can launch directly from the campground’s edge.
Hiking, Nature Trails & Wildlife Viewing
Short flat trails loop through shaded oak woodland and riverside habitats. Day-use and campground loops connect to interpretive signs explaining native plants, animals, and cultural history. Birdwatchers can spot red-tailed and red-shouldered hawks, woodpeckers, herons, and possibly rare riparian brush rabbits during quiet hours.
Picnic Areas, Playgrounds & Group Facilities
Willow Beach and Oak Grove picnic zones feature tables and BBQ grills under mature trees—ideal for family gatherings. A playground and large group campsite accommodate reunions or school outings, often enhanced by ranger-led nature programs on weekends.
Restrooms, Showers & Drinking Water
Flush restrooms are located near the campground and day-use areas. Coin-operated hot showers serve overnight guests. Potable water fill stations are scattered throughout. Drinking fountains are accessible near main picnic zones.
Interpretive & Ranger-Led Programs
From spring through fall, the park hosts guided nature walks, junior ranger activities, birding tours, and riparian plant identification events. Interpretive exhibits showcase oak woodland ecology, indigenous heritage, and the park’s conservation story.
Visitor Tips
- Open daily from 8 am to sunset; campground check-in at 2 pm, check-out at 12 pm.
- Camping costs $30/night; day-use parking fee applies—state passes accepted.
- No hookups; RVs limited to 24 ft trailers or 21 ft motorhomes; dump station available.
- Pets must stay leashed in campground only; not allowed on beaches or trails.
- Campsites include fire rings and stoves—bring or buy firewood on-site; ground fires prohibited.
- Order quarters for showers—hot water costs apply.
- Bring bug spray; mosquitoes intensify near river at dusk and during warmer months.
- River swimming encouraged at beaches only—currents can be strong off-trail.
- No lifeguards—careful supervision of children is essential.
- Summer temps exceed 100 °F—shade is scarce beyond campground; carry extra water.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Late spring is magic at Caswell. Wild native flowers bloom along shaded trails. Baby birds appear in the oak canopy. Paddle season begins as water temperatures climb. For a small adventure, float from the campground’s Salmon Bend to Willow Beach—easy and family-safe. Night owls and families can also enjoy ranger-led star walks near the river’s edge when the sky is dark and fireflies light the trees—an enchanted Central Valley moment.