Native Americans

Historic Sites

Cultural History

Kneebone Family Cemetery

Bridges

Henness Pass Road

Trails

The Ditches of Bridgeport

General Recreation

Interpretive Programs

Plant And Animal Life

Wildflowers

Tips

Become a Docent

PLANT AND ANIMAL LIFE

A rich variety of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, skunks and raccoons, inhabit this region, with an occasional bear, coyote, mountain lion or bobcat. Birdwatchers may enjoy the sight of such species as wild turkeys, woodpeckers, hawks, eagles and waterfowl, as well as numerous songbirds. Fishing is good along the lower sections of Humbug Creek and the South Yuba River near Englebright Reservoir. Springtime yields some spectacular displays of wildflowers to grace the riverbanks and secluded waterfalls. You may spot bush lupine, monkey flowers, California Poppy, Indian pink, fairy lantern, honeysuckle, yarrow, iris, many varieties of sweet pea or the occasional tiger lilly. Canyon live oak, gray pine, California black oak, Douglas fir and other deciduous and evergreen tress flourish here, while underbrush species include manzanita, mock orange, gooseberry, mountain mahogany and wood fern. Since poison oak is a natural part of the thriving underbrush, hikers must learn to recognize and avoid this plant.

INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS

Wildflower Walks

The wildflowers of spring are a great attraction along the South Yuba River, and on Saturdays and Sundays from mid-March through early May volunteers conduct guided walks.

On Saturdays and Sundays from mid-May through September, join volunteer docents for activities related to the natural, cultural and historical background of the area. Visitors enjoy demonstrations of gold panning and history walk that tours the famous Bridgeport Covered Bridge, Virginia Turnpike, Kneebone Ranch & family cemetery.

School groups and other groups are encouraged to contact the park to schedule tours. Please call the park at (530) 432-2546 for schedule information.

If you'd like to volunteer to help in these activities and more, you can become a docent

GENERAL RECREATION

Fishing along the lower section of the South Yuba River will yield small mouth bass, squawfish and suckers, as well as the occasional rainbow or brown trout. Fishing is better during the Spring and Summer (when winter run-off is not as dangerous).

Hiking trails along the south fork of the Yuba River vary from totally accessible to fairly strenuous. Before setting out, check on the length and difficulty of the trail, and carry drinking water.

River-watch from various vantage points: the Highway 49 Bridge; through the breezy side windows of the Bridgeport Covered Bridge; at Purdon and Edward's Crossing Bridges; at many spots along the hiking trails.

Swimming is best during midsummer and fall, when the river is warmer and flows at lower, safer levels. SWIMMING IS NOT RECOMMENDED IN COLD FAST MOVING WATER.

Whitewater kayaking between the town of Washington and Purdon Crossing is best during wet years, when the river flow is high and tributaries are full. These rapids are ranked from class 3 (difficult-for experienced only) to class 6 (utmost difficulty-team of experts only, taking every precaution). Please call the park for further information.

TIPS

• Alcoholic beverages and glass containers are prohibited.
• Make sure you are in proper physical condition for the trail you plan to hike.
• Drinking water is only available at the Bridgeport Ranger Station.
• Be aware of location of restroom facilities.
• Dogs must be leashed.
• Fires are prohibited.
• Camping is prohibited on State Park Lands.
• All natural and cultural features are protected by law and may not be removed or altered.
• Firearms are prohibited.
• No diving/No lifeguards on duty.
• Respect private property/Stay on trails
• Gold panning is allowed on all South Yuba River Public Lands/Hands and Pans Only, on State Park property.
• At Malakoff SHP and Bridgeport, gold pans are checked out to the public at no charge.

City Parks in this area

Recreation in this area