Caswell Memorial State Park
Caswell Memorial State Park preserves threatened riparian oak woodland near Ripon, California. The riparian brush rabbit is endemic to Caswell and can’t be found anywhere else. The Yokuts were a Native American tribe who once inhabited the area around this river and foraged for acorns in these historic forests. The river provided a rich resource for early 1800s Spanish explorers and fur trappers.
The proprietor, Thomas Caswell, agreed that this beautiful woodland must be protected because he appreciated it. The 134 acres were donated to the state of California by the children and grandchildren in 1950. The current 258-acre size of Caswell is the result of further contributions and state purchases. In 1958, the public was given access to Caswell Memorial State Park.
Swimming At Caswell Memorial State Park
Nothing beats a refreshing swim in a river on a steamy California afternoon. The Caswell Memorial State Park is home to two separate pools. Salmon Bend Camp Beach is the first option, just next to the campground. The second beach is the Day Use area’s Willow Beach.
The pool has no lifeguards on duty. Water levels in the area can fluctuate rapidly and unexpectedly. Therefore, park rangers advise visitors to wear life jackets in or near the water.
Boating At Caswell Memorial State Park
Caswell Memorial State Park’s unique natural settings can best be appreciated from the water of the Stanislaus River. Small boats powered by human muscle only are permitted.
Canoes and kayaks are a popular way to enjoy the water, and those who didn’t bring their own can hire them locally. Tubing down the river is a popular activity for many visitors. Willow Beach Day Use Area and Salmon Bend Camp Beach each have their hand boat launch.
Fishing At Caswell Memorial State Park
Stanislaus River winds through Caswell Memorial State Park. Anglers of all ability levels go to the slow-moving river with a muddy bottom because of its excellent fishing. A wide variety of fish species flourish there.
Bass, bluegill, catfish, shad, and buffalo carp are just a few fish that can be caught during the summer. Annually, the area is visited by migrating Chinook salmon. You may easily reach the water’s edge from the campground or choose a spot along the shoreline to spend the day.
Hiking At Caswell Memorial State Park
Hikers can take advantage of a network of trails at Caswell Memorial State Park. The riparian environment of the valley can be seen up close and personal on these nature trails, making them suitable for visitors of all ages.
The park provides a glimpse into the pristine condition of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can tackle short pieces of track through oak forests filled with rare plant species or tour the complete integrated trail system. The trails are off-limits to pets other than service animals.
Picnicking At Caswell Memorial State Park
Caswell Memorial State Park is a great place to picnic by the water any time of the year. Willow Beach and Oak Grove are great places to picnic during the day. Big Meadows is home to a huge group picnic place on the water. Each picnic spot in the park has access to tables and grills and is within easy walking distance of the park’s swimming and boating facilities. To help visitors go from the parking lot to the picnic sites closer to the shore, the Ranger Station rents out fat-tire wheelchairs.
Address: 28000 S Austin Rd, Ripon, CA 95366
Open-Closes: 8 am-6 pm
Phone: (209) 599-3810
Email: info@parks.ca.gov
Management: California State Parks
Area: 258 acres
Established: 1952
