Visitors can pan for gold or explore the trails leading to such historic mining sites as the Miner's Tunnel and Jones Bar. The area includes the longest single-span covered bridge in the world, four miles of the steep rugged canyon of the South Yuba River, and the Independence Trail, a wheelchair accessible trail.

South Yuba river crashes through granite gorges, over boulders, or rests quietly in emerald pools offering a variety of summertime swimming holes. There is fishing for Rainbows and Brown trout, which is best early in the season.

Whitewater sport includes kayaking, which is best soon after the water levels drop sufficiently after the spring thaw.

Location and Directions
The South Yuba River State Park is located off Highway 49 north of Nevada City. The park is accessible from Edwards Crossing, Purdon Crossing, Highway 49 and Bridgeport.