What are the park's hours of operation?

The park is open from 8 AM to sunset, 365 days a year.

Are dogs allowed in the park?

Yes, dogs are allowed in the park but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

Where are you located?

We are located at 17660 Pleasant Valley Rd.

Can I reserve a picnic area or campsite?

Yes, reservations can be made online or by calling our park office.

Are there any hiking trails in the park?

Yes, we have over 20 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging.

Reviews (530) 432-2546 Call Website Photos About

South Yuba River State Park in Penn Valley

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4.7 (2080)

Tourist Attractions Hiking Areas State Parks Parks

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South Yuba River State Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 17660 Pleasant Valley Rd, Penn Valley, CA 95946. This magnificent state park offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you are an avid hiker or simply looking for a peaceful escape into nature, South Yuba River State Park is the perfect destination for you. As a designated hiking area, South Yuba River State Park boasts a variety of scenic trails that wind through lush forests and alongside the beautiful Yuba River. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and discover hidden gems along the way. The park's extensive trail system caters to all skill levels, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced hikers. In addition to its hiking opportunities, South Yuba River State Park is also a beloved park for picnicking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The park's tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing day outdoors. Visitors can cool off in the crystal-clear waters of the Yuba River or simply bask in the serenity of their surroundings. With its diverse range of attractions and activities, South Yuba River State Park has earned a reputation as one of the top tourist attractions in the area. Its pristine natural environment, coupled with its convenient location, makes it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. So, whether you're seeking adventure or simply a peaceful retreat, South Yuba River State Park is the ideal place to experience the beauty of California's natural landscapes.

South Yuba River State Park Review Summary

The summary was generated by AI, based on reviews.

This scenic park offers stunning river views, hiking trails, and picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and families. Visitors praise the park's cleanliness, well-maintained trails, and friendly staff.

Review Rating Chart

Yelp: 4.5/5

Google Reviews: 4.4/5

TripAdvisor: 4.5/5

Facebook Reviews: 4.7/5

AllTrails: 4.6/5

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Reviews & Ratings

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4.7

(2080 Reviews)

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Nate G -Google user

2 weeks ago

10$ parking cash or kiosk. beautiful clear water. no alcohol. dogs allowed on leash in most areas.

Devdev devdev -Google user

Edited 7 years ago

Amazing amazing amazing amazing! Love it so much! A super beautiful piece of paradise here on earth. Definetely worth checking out. Great swimming spots in the summer. Also if you wish to find nude beaches they do exist, or just walk in far enough to be...Read More

Katherine Marie -Google user

3 years ago

Beautiful place! Fiddle creek connects to the North yuba river. There's a fiddle creek trail up the road a bit, slightly steep but neat! We caught and released Californian newts in the creek they were a reddish color so cute but be careful, they can...Read More

Itay Seker -Google user

4 months ago

A lovely place, many hikes around. Don't forget to make a stop at the visitors center.

MystikFire -Google user

2 weeks ago

I have been coming here for 31 years and it always held great memories, giving 5 stars because I love it but your park rangers are RUDE. The only thing I think you should do it train them better. No I wasn't breaking rules, I...Read More

SEDDIQ SORUSH -Google user

2 months ago

Stunning views and great amenities! The scenery is breathtaking, and the park offers everything you need for a comfortable visit—well-maintained trails, rest areas, and plenty of spots to relax and enjoy nature.

One All Gender Restroom

Rodolfo Felix -Google user

4 months ago

An amazing place to visit, especially in the summer! The river is crystal clear, the scenery is breathtaking, and it’s perfect for swimming or just relaxing by the water. Just keep in mind that it can get really hot, so bring plenty of water and...Read More

There are restrooms in the parking area.Yes

Tony Fang (tf245yay) -Google user

a month ago

This place is amazing. :))) Went here to enjoy the weekend and it was relaxing.

William Boyer -Google user

a year ago

Historic covered bridge overlooking the South Fork of the Yuba River up in the Grass Valley area. It gets hot, so bring water. Plenty of parking in multiple spots, some is paid parking so bring cash. You can do short hikes down to the Yuba...Read More

Darrell Lake -Google user

a month ago

A beautiful spot by the river, better when there’s no crowds, dogs, sunblock slicks, or Bluetooth speakers. If you love nature it can easily be found here when less people are around. If you are not a good swimmer I suggest Bridgeport which is slower...Read More

None.Portable toilets, one is ADA accessibleNot a good place to bring a dog, limited areas to sit and out of respect for other patrons should be left at home. As has been seen across the state your dog may attract predators, who aren’t afraid of barking from a pet. This is nature if you don’t respect it, don’t visit.Some tables on opposite side of old bridge crossing.

Jesus Paredes -Google user

3 months ago

First time I visit it and I assure you it won't be the last, everything natural visit it .

T M-R -Google user

4 years ago

Great spot to hike next to the river. Beautiful this time of year, in January--of course it was an unusual 70deg. The water is so clear. Loved the hike towards the main river. Rocky terrain and not boring at all. Due to COVID, the parking...Read More

Rahul Vishwakarma -Google user

Edited 3 months ago

Beautiful place to hangout next to the Yuba river with a wooden bridge to remind you of its rich history.

Brendan Kiely -Google user

2 years ago

South Yuba River State Park is a beautiful state park to visit, explore, and hike at. The park has a few beautiful trails some of which follow the river. There is also the large historic Bridgeport Covered Bridge and other historic buildings as well.

Vilina Hutter -Google user

2 years ago

My most recent visit was to the Buttermilk Bend wildflower trail. It was a wonderful visit as always. The river was running really fast and full, but the trail is on a cliff high above the water, so very safe. We stopped...Read More

Kenneth McRae -Google user

2 years ago

Very nice place to go on a short hike. The covered bridge is beautiful. This is a nice time of year to go especially with the blooms happening. I highly recommend it. Oh..... and get you kids out the house and hit the trail 😉...Read More

Erik Vogel -Google user

2 years ago

An excellent stop along the highway that is a must stop place. The views of the Yuba are amazing in the right light. And as the river was running high, it was exquisite. The photos never give it justice, so add it to your stops...Read More

Great place to visit and enjoy your picnic lunch and the beauty of the river area. There is a great view of the Yuba.

Patrick Austin -Google user

5 years ago

One of my favorite places to visit when I just want a quick day out. It can be very busy at the Independence trail at times so plan wisely if you want to go. When the crowds are away it's one of the...Read More

Shelley Carlisle -Google user

7 months ago

The South Yuba River is very scenic and lots of hiking and swimming in the summer! The large granite rocks in and around the river are spectacular.

Deanna Chung -Google user

3 years ago

I LOVE this little gem! We went to buttermilk bend trail and it did NOT disappoint. We went because there were good reviews of wildflowers. What that means is there were wildflowers along every bend of the hike. It's NOT fields and fields of poppies and...Read More

Features

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Activities

Hiking

Amenities

Picnic tables

Public restroom

Children

Good for kids

Kid-friendly hikes

Pets

Dogs allowed

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South Yuba River State Park in Penn Valley

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