Regional Parks

American River Parkway - Discovery Park

Welcome:

Discovery Park is where the American River meets the Sacramento River. One of Sacramento County’s best boat launches, recreational boaters get the chance to explore both of Sacramento’s wild and scenic rivers.

Fast Facts:

302-acre park
Discovery Park is located beside I-5 in downtown Sacramento.
This Parks is located both within the City of Sacramento limits and the unincorporated County
During the winter, you might see Discovery Park underwater during high water. Discovery Park is part of the Sacramento area flood control system. It is designed to flood to take pressure off American River levees when there is a lot of water in the system.

How to Get There:

From I-5 take the Richards Blvd. off-ramp then go west to get to the South entrance of the park, or follow the Garden Highway exit east from I-5 to find the North entrance. Signs denote the park’s location from I-5.

View Discovery Park Map

Activities:

Bicycle riders can enjoy the 32-mile Jedediah Smith Bike Trail. Adults and kids can play softball while archers of all experience levels can shoot in the archery range. Reserve a picnic area for your next party today! Boat ramp and car-top launching can be found on the shores of the American River. Anglers enjoy excellent fishing; here they find the best of both rivers! Alcohol is prohibited at Discovery Park, except by permit from the Director and with reservation for picnics and special events.

Hours and Fees:

The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Special Event fees vary by event

Park Fees:

$5.00 Vehicle
$2.50 Small Watercraft Launch Fee
$10.00 Vehicle + Trailer or Oversized Vehicle (over 22 feet)
$20.00 Bus

Parking fees are collected year-round, even on special event days and on weekends. Self-payment is required if no fee collector is present.

Picnics Allowed:Yes

Additional Information:

Not at this time