Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area

Tucked along the Sacramento River near Corning in Tehama County, Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area offers 323 acres of riparian woodland that feels worlds away from the Interstate 5 corridor just minutes to the west. This is one of the last remaining stretches of valley oak riparian forest in the Sacramento Valley — a landscape that once dominated the region but has largely given way to agriculture.

The park draws visitors who appreciate a quieter, less-polished alternative to California’s busier state parks. The Sacramento River is the centerpiece here, offering excellent fishing for salmon and steelhead during their seasonal runs, along with swimming holes that provide welcome relief during Tehama County’s hot summers. Kayaking and canoeing along this stretch of river reward paddlers with wildlife sightings — great blue herons, river otters, and the occasional bald eagle are regular residents.

Shaded campgrounds beneath towering oaks make this a comfortable base for multi-day stays, particularly appealing to anglers timing their visits around fall salmon runs or winter steelhead season. Hiking trails wind through the oak woodland, where wildflowers carpet the forest floor in spring.

The best time to visit depends on your interests: spring for wildflowers and mild weather, summer for swimming, and fall through early winter for fishing. Mid-summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, so come prepared with shade and hydration.

With a 4.5-star rating across 376 reviews, Woodson Bridge consistently earns praise from visitors who value its peaceful riverside setting and unhurried pace.

Explore Nearby

• Ishi Wilderness — Public Land in California
• Honey Run Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in California
• Sacramento River Bend Area — Public Land in California
• Mendocino National Forest — National Forest in California
• Lassen National Forest — National Forest in California