This year’s California State Parks Week will kick off with the opening of the State’s newest park, Dos Rios. Named for the Tuolumne and San Joaquin rivers, the 1,600-acre park is located eight miles west of Modesto. It is the largest public-private floodplain restoration project in California to restore habitat for threatened and endangered wildlife. State Parks Week runs June 12–16, with the theme, “This is Where You Live.” Dos Rios Park will open Wednesday, June 12.
As a state park, Dos Rios will offer Californians opportunities to improve their mental, physical, and social well-being. Thanks to a partnership between California State Parks and the California Conservation Corps, visitors will be able to hike some areas of the property and enjoy newly built picnic tables and ramadas for the June opening. Planning for greater river access for swimming, angling, boating, and other water sports, along with trails for bicycling and other outdoor recreation activities will involve a public engagement process that includes consultation with area Tribes.
“The vision for Dos Rios is a journey into the past, revealing a lush Central Valley and a local escape – adjacent to two rivers and a wildlife refuge,” said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “State Parks is committed to ensuring access for all Californians as we collaboratively craft this park alongside the public, tribal partners, and stakeholders for a healthier natural environment close to home.”
In partnership with the nonprofit River Partners, the restoration of Dos Rios was a 10-year, $40 million project from 11 different funding sources from the public and private sectors. This will be the first state park created since Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area in November 2014.
Romick in Oakley 