Knights Ferry — cliff jumping spot in Knights Ferry, California
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Knights Ferry

Knights Ferry, California
Photo: David Berry / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

About this spot

Knights Ferry Recreation Area sits on the Stanislaus River beside the 1863 Knights Ferry covered bridge—the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi—off Sonora Road near Oakdale, with a visitor center, parking, and riverbank trail. Jumping or diving from the covered bridge itself is illegal under Stanislaus County ordinance. Away from the bridge, jumps of roughly 40 feet are reported along the riverbank near Lover's Leap, a rock wall rising over 200 feet, though depth and access should be confirmed on-site since river releases change flow often. Hazards include current, hidden rock, and difficult exits. This is a popular swimming and rafting put-in area; expect crowds on summer weekends.

Safety first. Cliff jumping is inherently dangerous and can cause serious injury or death. Conditions — water depth, submerged hazards, and access — change constantly. CliffScout is community-sourced reference information, not a guarantee a spot is safe. Always assess the conditions yourself before jumping, and never jump where you're unsure. You assume all risk.

Clips from this spot

30 feet

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