Recreations Rivers of Northern and Central California

Stanislaus River

1. Kern River
2. Kaweah River
3. Kings River
4. Merced River
5. Tuolumne River
6. Stanislaus River
7. Sacramento River
8. American River
9. Yuba River

Central California › Stanislaus River

Flowing through California Gold Country, the Stanislaus River originates high in the Sierra Nevadas. The North Fork is considered a premier river canyon, offering scenic splendor and a rich wildlife habitat. The river flows between Tuoloumne and Calaveras counties, and through Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Rafting the free-flowing river is a wonderful way to escape from the routine of every day life.

Difficulty:
The North Fork is a class IV+ whitewater run for intermediate to advanced boaters. The minimum age is 15. Lower Stanislaus is rated as Class II - Beginner. No previous experience is required, and the minimum age is only 5 years old.

Season:
The best time to run the North Fork is April to early June. The Lower Stanislaus River season is from May through October. Weather in the summer can be hot, while Spring and Fall are mild.

Links:
North Fork (Friends of the River)
Lower Stanislaus River (River Journey)