Explore Arnold
Knight's Ferry, California
Knight's Ferry transports its visitors back in time to the Gold Rush era. With its historic buildings, the iconic covered bridge, and scenic natural surroundings, it's a perfect destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
First things first
An Old Timey Watering Hole
Knight's Ferry is located in Stanislaus County, California, along the banks of the beautiful Stanislaus River. Its history is deeply intertwined with the westward expansion of the United States in the mid-19th century.
Geography
Where Knight's Ferry, California sits
Knights Ferry sits where the Stanislaus River leaves the Sierra foothills and slows into the Central Valley, about 30 miles east of Modesto.
The landscape is low, warm oak savanna and grassland rather than pine forest, and the river here is wide and floatable — the reason the settlement, and California's longest covered bridge, ended up in this spot.
It is about 45 miles down Highway 4 and Highway 120 from Chalet Bruin and Koda Loft — roughly an hour.
- Region
- Eastern edge of California's Central Valley
- County
- Stanislaus County
- Elevation
- About 210 ft
- Nearest town
- Oakdale, roughly 12 miles west
- Getting there
- Sonora Road, between Highways 108/120 and Oakdale
A Glimpse into Knight's Ferry History
The town was founded in 1849 by Dr. William Knight, a Massachusetts native who came west in search of gold but found his fortune in ferrying prospectors and supplies across the river. Dr. Knight’s ferry service became essential for travelers on the Stockton-Los Angeles Road, making him a prominent figure in the region.
During the Gold Rush era, Knight’s Ferry flourished as a vital transportation hub. The town boasted hotels, saloons, and general stores that catered to the needs of weary travelers and miners. The stone-built buildings, some of which still stand today, serve as a testament to the town’s prosperity during this period.
Tragedy struck Knight’s Ferry in 1856 when a massive flood destroyed much of the town. The original wooden bridge, constructed in 1852, was swept away, leaving only the stone abutments. A new covered bridge was built in 1863 and became an iconic symbol of the town.
While the Gold Rush may be long gone, Knight’s Ferry has retained its historic charm. Visitors can explore the town’s preserved buildings, take leisurely strolls along the riverbanks, and enjoy a peaceful day immersed in history.
Getting to Knight's Ferry from Arnold, CA
Knight’s Ferry is situated approximately 38 miles southwest of Arnold, California. The drive takes approximately one hour and offers a scenic journey through the Sierra Nevada foothills and into the San Joaquin Valley.
- Start on CA-4 W in Arnold.
- Continue on CA-4 W for approximately 36 miles.
- Turn left onto Kennedy Rd.
- Follow Kennedy Rd to Main St. in Knight’s Ferry.
Nearby
Keep exploring
Knight's Ferry Bridge
The Knight's Ferry Covered Bridge, also known as the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi, is a must-see attraction in the area. This historic bridge has undergone extensive restoration and is open to pedestrians today. Crossing it is like stepping back in time, offering stunning views of the Stanislaus River below.
Knights Ferry Recreation Area
The Knights Ferry Recreation Area offers picnic areas, hiking trails, and access to the Stanislaus River for fishing and swimming. It's an excellent place for a family outing or a relaxing day in nature.
Old Corner Saloon
Step into the Old Corner Saloon, a historic watering hole that dates back to the Gold Rush era. Grab a drink and soak in the rustic ambiance while imagining what life was like in the 19th century.
Historic Buildings
Wander the streets of Knight's Ferry to discover a collection of well-preserved historic buildings, including the former general store and the original stone abutments of the destroyed wooden bridge.
Affiliate deals
Guided rafting on the rivers down the hill
Rafting here is a guided business, and OARS has run these rivers for decades. Booking takes you to their own site, at their own prices.
These are affiliate links: we earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. Trips are run, staffed and insured entirely by OARS — we are independent of them. Whitewater rafting carries real risk of injury; read their trip pages, age limits and river ratings before you book.
Stay nearby
Lodging near Knight's Ferry
Knight's Ferry sits down the hill toward the valley — a comfortable day out from Arnold with the covered bridge and river beach along the way. Looking for Gold Country vacation rentals? Arnold Haven has two dog-friendly cabins — a five-bedroom A-frame chalet that sleeps 12 and a two-bedroom loft that sleeps 4. Minimum stay is 2 nights, check-in is at 3pm and check-out at 11am.
- Check-in
- Self check-in, 3pm
- Cancellation
- Full refund 5+ days ahead; holidays 30 days
Check live availability, see your full price, and book securely — ID check and payment are handled by Stripe.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Do you have to pay at Knights Ferry?+
Parking in the Knights Ferry lot is $10 per car. This lot is run by the Army Corps of Engineers. **You can be ticketed if you do not pay the fee**.
How cold is Knights Ferry water?+
The Stanislaus River, which runs through Knights Ferry, is usually at a temp of around mid-to-low 50’s.
Are dogs allowed at Knights Ferry?+
Yes, Knights Ferry is dog friendly, but please remember to bring a leash.
Is there fish in Knights Ferry?+
The types of fish Knights Ferry is varied, with species of trout, salmon, carp, crappie, and bass found up and down the stream.