Stanislaus National Forest

The Stanislaus National Forest encompasses a total area of about 898,000 acres of land in east-central California. The national forest is accessible using CA 4, CA 108, CA 120 and US 395. The national forest is managed by the United States Forest Service and was established on February 22, 1897. 

Several unique features attract visitors to Stanislaus National Forest. Some of the more popular attractions are as follows. First, the national forest is home to approximately 5,000 historical and archeological sites including six NRHP sites (National Register of Historic Places). The forest is also home to two wild and scenic rivers including the 11-mile of the Merced River and the 29-mile of the Tuolumne River. 

Beyond these two main rivers, the national forest is also home to 811 miles of other rivers/streams and 78 lakes. The forest also includes 1,100 miles of non-motorized trails, a total of 2,859 miles of road of which 188 miles are paved. Other amenities in the national forest include dispersed camping, picnic sites, 55 campgrounds, ORV area, winter recreation area, and two ski resorts.

Activities that attract visitors to the national forest include camping, canoeing, swimming, fishing, hunting, whitewater rafting, water-skiing, boating, hiking, snowmobiling, mountain biking, horseback riding, cross-country and downhill skiing, ORV riding, and interpretive programs.

Of course, if you have a pooch, you can bring them to the Stanislaus National Forest, although you will need to observe the forests strict rules if you want to enjoy your time in the protected area. Some of the basic rules that you should know regarding your dog are as follows. 

First, you should ensure that you keep your dog on a leash no longer than six feet long. Additionally, you should prevent your dog from wandering into areas of the national forest where they are not allowed. To avoid any such inconvenience, you should find out which areas of the national forest are pet-friendly as well as the areas of the forest that are restricted.