Dos Rios State Park — Attraction in Contiguous United States

Review of Dos Rios State Park – California’s Newest State Park

I recently had the chance to visit Dos Rios State Park, California’s newest state park near Modesto, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for this promising natural space.

My visit took place on March 1st, and while the trees were mostly bare, early spring blooms on some bushes and trees added a touch of color. The surrounding grasses were largely dormant, but fresh green weeds and vegetation were beginning to emerge, creating a nice contrast.

We took a hike from the parking area to the confluence of the San Joaquin and Tuolumne Rivers, which is an interesting natural feature. The trail follows an old two-track road that leads to a sudden cliffside, where you can see the river actively eroding the land—a powerful reminder of nature’s ongoing transformation. However, the loose soil and crumbling edge may require caution for hikers. One issue we encountered along the way was the abundance of goat head thorns, which proved troublesome for our dogs’ paws.

It’s clear that Dos Rios State Park is still in its infancy, and while it offers a peaceful escape into nature, it lacks developed interpretation and infrastructure at this stage. Temporary signage provides some guidance, but the park would benefit from more detailed educational materials and trail improvements. Fortunately, after speaking with a park ranger, I learned that this is just the beginning—future phases will include expanded trails, camping areas, and more interpretive features to enhance the visitor experience.

For now, I’d highly recommend visiting during the cooler seasons—spring and fall seem ideal for exploring the area. I’d personally avoid the peak summer months, as the landscape could become harsh with the Central Valley heat.

Overall, in its current state, I’d rate Dos Rios at 3 out of 5 stars, but I have high hopes for what’s to come. Once the planned improvements are made, I could easily see this park becoming a five-star destination. It’s great to see the Central Valley getting a new state park, and I hope this is just the start of more outdoor opportunities in this region. If you’re looking for a peaceful hike and a chance to witness the beginnings of a new park, Dos Rios is...

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 An Enchanting Escape at Dos Rios State Park

I absolutely love Dos Rios State Park! This gem nestled in California offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility. If you're a budding hiker, birdwatcher, or someone who simply enjoys a peaceful walk in nature, this park has something for everyone.

Nature at Its Best: The trails are well-maintained and provide stunning views at every turn. From lush greenery to serene water bodies, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.

Exceptional Staff: The park's interpreters and staff are genuinely passionate about their work. Their knowledge and enthusiasm make every visit educational and enjoyable. They truly go above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience for all visitors.

A Perfect Getaway: Dos Rios State Park is a haven for nature lovers. Whether you're looking to unwind, explore, or learn, this park offers it all. Every visit here feels like a magical escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

I highly recommend Dos Rios State Park to anyone seeking a beautiful and peaceful outdoor...

So we took drive to check Dos Rios out. It's dry and dusty, no access to any water, no swimming no fishing, no camping or play areas, a view of the river from above, that's about it. They have some picnic tables and small bbqs, under awnings, not much shade though, then they have picnic tables in the hot sun. There is absolutely nothing to do there. Spoke to a ranger who said they are looking for feedback as to what to do. She says there is a process in California, we all know how long that takes, guess they have no ideas. 🤣. I personally would not waste your gas or time to go there to do nothing but look around and bake in the hot sun. People were just riding in and...