South Yuba River State Park

Things To Do

Hiking Hikers may choose from short, level trails to longer more rugged trials, and everything in between. The Independence Trail, near Highway 49 Crossing, is the nation’s first wheelchair accessible wilderness trail. Leashed dogs are allowed everywhere except at Family Beach at Bridgeport. Click here for maps and trail descriptions.
Swimming The South Yuba River is famous for its pristine swimming holes surrounded by smooth granite rocks. In the summer months, more advanced swimmers travel up the trails from Bridgeport, 49 Crossing, Purdon Crossing, and Edwards Crossing for sunning and swimming. Family Beach and Kneebone Beach at Bridgeport are ideal for families with children and picnicking. Remember, the river current is extremely dangerous and cold much of the year when the river is high! Even in summer the current remains strong in certain locations. Always evaluate the river conditions before entering the water. Never jump into water if you don’t know what is underneath, and never dive. Life vests are highly recommended. Never swim alone.
Fishing Downstream of Highway 49 Crossing is open to fishing year round. Fishing season upstream of 49 Crossing runs late April through mid-November. (Check local fishing regulations for exact dates). The Sacramento pikeminnow is prevalent year round, while colder water temperatures may yield a small mouth bass or brown trout. Fishing licenses are required for ages 16 and up.
Gold Panning Gold was discovered on the South Yuba River in June of 1848 at Rose's Bar, and some gold panners are still getting lucky today. All are welcome to try their luck at gold panning along the river with pans and hands only. Demonstrations are held every Sat and Sun in the summer and at special events. Supplies may be purchased at the Visitor Center
Bird Watching The South Yuba River is home to a large number of bird species, and a stopover point for many more migrating birds. You may see the small but mighty American Dipper swimming underwater in the rapids, a Bald Eagle soaring overhead, a Hermit Thrush calling within a shrub, a Belted Kingfisher diving for a meal, and many more. Guided bird walks are offered in the Fall and Spring.
Mountain Biking Bicycles are allowed on the 5 mile stretch of the South Yuba River trail between Edwards Crossing and Purdon Crossing which traverses State Park property, Bureau of Land Management property and private easements. Parts of this trail are wide and flat, while other parts are technical and challenging. Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park allows bikes on certain trails.
Visitor Center and Gift Shop Our Visitor Center at Bridgeport is your source for information on the activities, history and nature of Bridgeport and the surrounding area. Come see our displays of local wildlife, Native American culture, and Bridgeport settlers. The Visitor Center is open 11-4, daily in the summer and 11-3 Thurs - Sun the rest of the year.
Historical Sights Click here to see our history page, which features the Covered Bridge, Historic Barn and Wagon Collection, the Virginia Turnpike, Gold Rush, and early settlers.
Events Click here to see our events page, which features Living History Days, Wildflower Walks, Bird Walks, Group Tours, Basket Weaving and more.

	Events
	Bridgeport History
	Flora and Fauna
	Trails and Maps
	Volunteer!