--- title: "Knight's Ferry, California — Explore Arnold | Arnold Haven" description: "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…" lang: en json-ld: | { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "TouristAttraction", "@id": "https://arnoldhaven.com/explore/knights-ferry-california#attraction", "name": "Knight's Ferry, California", "alternateName": "Knight's Ferry, California", "description": "Knight's Ferry transports its visitors back in time to the Gold Rush era. 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With its historic buildings, the iconic covered bridge, and scenic natural surroundings, it's a perfect destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. [Check availability](/cabins)[See the cabins](/cabins) 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. ![Knight's Ferry, California](/assets/knightsferrystanilusswimminghole-DlMIC4vu.webp) 02 ## 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. ![A Glimpse into Knight's Ferry History](/assets/knightsferryholdbuilding-CEMUt5hw.webp) ![A Glimpse into Knight's Ferry History](/assets/knightsferryswimming-csMN_jbF.webp) 03 ## 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. 1\. \\1 2\. \\1 3\. \\1 4\. \\1 ![Getting to Knight's Ferry from Arnold, CA](/assets/knightsferrypicnic-DzSr6G4t.webp) ![Getting to Knight's Ferry from Arnold, CA](/assets/knightsferrybridgeinside-B3qefBfo.webp) Gallery ## Knight's Ferry, California in pictures ![Knight's Ferry, California — photo 1](/assets/knightsferrystanilusswimminghole-DlMIC4vu.webp) ![Knight's Ferry, California — photo 2](/assets/knightsferryholdbuilding-CEMUt5hw.webp) ![Knight's Ferry, California — photo 3](/assets/knightsferryswimming-csMN_jbF.webp) ![Knight's Ferry, California — photo 4](/assets/knightsferrypicnic-DzSr6G4t.webp) ![Knight's Ferry, California — photo 5](/assets/knightsferrybridgeinside-B3qefBfo.webp) ![Knight's Ferry, California — photo 6](/assets/knightsferrygeneralstore-BboTMN7Y.webp) ![Knight's Ferry, California — photo 7](/assets/knightsferryladderco-BH2mqmbz.webp) Nearby ## Keep exploring [ ![Knight's Ferry Bridge](/assets/knightsferrybridgeinside-B3qefBfo.webp) ### 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. Discover ](/explore/knights-ferry-california) [ ![Knights Ferry Recreation Area](/assets/knightsferrypicnic-DzSr6G4t.webp) ### 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. Discover ](/explore/knights-ferry-california) [ ![Old Corner Saloon](/assets/knightsferrygeneralstore-BboTMN7Y.webp) ### 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. Discover ](/explore/knights-ferry-california) [ ![Historic Buildings](/assets/knightsferryladderco-BH2mqmbz.webp) ### 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. Discover ](/explore/knights-ferry-california) 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 5 days notice, full refund - [CHALET BRUIN — 12 guests, 5 bedrooms](/cabins/chalet-bruin) - [KODA LOFT — 4 guests, 2 bedrooms](/cabins/koda-loft) Check live availability, see your full price, and book securely — ID check and payment are handled by Stripe. Check dates & book 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. \\1. 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. 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