🌤 Weather at Caswell Memorial State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 42–80 °F | 55–93 °F | 41–88 °F | 36–62 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Tracy Carbona, 8 mi away, elevation 135 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
California’s Last Riparian Oak Woodland on the Stanislaus River
Caswell Memorial State Park near Ripon, California, preserves one of the last remaining riparian oak woodlands in the Central Valley — an ecosystem that once stretched for hundreds of miles along California’s great rivers but has been reduced to a tiny fraction of its original range. This 258-acre park along the Stanislaus River is a living museum of what the Valley floor looked like before agriculture transformed the landscape.
The park’s towering valley oaks, some centuries old, create a cathedral-like canopy that shelters endangered species including the riparian brush rabbit — one of the most endangered mammals in North America.
Hiking & Nature
Several easy to moderate trails wind beneath the massive oaks and along the Stanislaus River, offering exceptional wildlife viewing and photography opportunities. The shaded trails are a welcome escape from the Central Valley heat.
- Oak Forest Nature Trail: A self-guided interpretive loop through the heart of the ancient oak woodland
- River Trail: Follows the Stanislaus River with seasonal wildflower displays and frequent wildlife sightings
- Wildlife to Watch: Great blue herons, red-tailed hawks, woodpeckers, wild turkeys, deer, and the rare riparian brush rabbit
Fishing & River Activities
The Stanislaus River meanders through the park, offering excellent fishing and seasonal water activities.
- Fish Species: Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, and seasonal Chinook salmon runs
- River Recreation: Swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing when conditions permit. Life jackets recommended — water temperatures and levels change rapidly.
- License: Valid California fishing license required for ages 16+
Camping
- 64 family campsites nestled within the oak forest canopy — camping beneath centuries-old trees
- Accommodates tents, trailers up to 21 feet, and motorhomes up to 24 feet
- Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and bear-proof food locker
- Flush toilets, hot showers, and drinking water available. No hookups.
- Group campsites available for larger parties
- Open year-round. Reserve via Reserve California
Visitor Tips
- Best Time: Spring (wildflowers and mild temps) and fall (salmon runs and comfortable camping). Summer is extremely hot — plan activities for early morning.
- Quiet Hours: 10 PM–6 AM. Generators allowed only during designated hours.
- River Safety: Always wear life jackets. Cold water and changing levels can be dangerous even on warm days.
- Entry Fee: $10 per vehicle.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Dos Rios Ranch Preserve (a short drive away) or Dos Rios State Park (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Caswell Memorial State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Dogs are permitted in California State Parks only in developed areas — campgrounds, picnic areas, parking lots and paved roads — and are prohibited on most trails, beaches and undeveloped areas unless specifically designated as dog-friendly.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Maximum 6-foot leash at all times; dogs may not be left unattended.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Dogs are prohibited on most state beaches; only beaches specifically designated as dog-allowed permit them (varies by park).
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are generally not allowed in buildings or cabins; overnight campers must keep dogs inside a tent or vehicle at night.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Designated dog-friendly trails and beaches vary park by park; misrepresenting a pet as a service animal is a misdemeanor.
Are dogs allowed at Caswell Memorial State Park?
Dogs are permitted in California State Parks only in developed areas — campgrounds, picnic areas, parking lots and paved roads — and are prohibited on most trails, beaches and undeveloped areas unless specifically designated as dog-friendly. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via parks.ca.gov. More: California state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Caswell Memorial State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
