444-acre River Bend Park is one of Sacramento’s oldest county parks. A long central road paralleling the river links you to this park’s many recreation facilities. Horse and hiking trails wind through the park, where dogs are allowed on leash.
The park is a welcome stop along the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, just across the Harold Richey Bicycle Bridge from William B. Pond Park. The bridge offers a spectacular view of the American River.
Wild turkeys and deer rustle in the grass beneath young oaks, while the bright green, carefully cared-for picnic area is a delicious place to stop for lunch. Group picnic sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis.
Directions:
From U.S. Highway 50, take the Bradshaw Road off-ramp. Turn right at Folsom Boulevard and follow the brown-and-white signs to the park entrance on Rod Beaudry Drive.