Education Exhibits
The Ranch House has various interactive activities for all ages! Learn about the San Joaquin River through the Bi-lingual Watershed Model where you can see and touch this one-of-a-kind, handcrafted model of the San Joaquin River and the land and water features that drain into it. The permanent exhibit is presented in English and Spanish and was created by local artist Brian Gibson, and funded with a generous grant from the Resources Legacy Fund, Preserving Wild California Program.
Explore an engaging array of animal clues such as feathers, footprints, bones, sounds, and nests with the "Whose Clues Are Whose?" interpreting evidence activity. This hands-on room invites visitors of all ages to learn about signs that animals leave behind and learn to read them as a fun way to explore the Parkway and appreciate the critters who call it “home”.
On your visit make sure to experience the UC Merced Interactive Kiosk, the kiosk allows you to see the lifecycle of a salmon in the San Joaquin River. Don't forget to see the salmon statue while you are there.
These and other activities are available for visitors to explore in the Ranch House, use the links below to learn more before your next visit to the River Center.
Art Gallery
If you are interested in being considered to display your artwork at the River Center Art Gallery, contact Katie Kincaid, Director of River Camp Programs by email at kkincaid@riverparkway.org or by phone at 559-248-8480 x157.
*The views and opinions expressed by the featured artists do not necessarily reflect those of the River Parkway Trust
*The views and opinions expressed by the featured artists do not necessarily reflect those of the River Parkway Trust
Current Art Gallery Exhibit
VISTAS Capstone Art Exhibit
Open every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Opening reception on Saturday, November 2, 2024, 10:00 am – 1:30 pm
Opening Reception Event Schedule:
- 10:00 am - 1:00 pm: VISTAS Project Exhibit Q&As in the River Center Ranch House
- 10:30 am & 12:30 pm: Big Group Games on the Kremen Lawn (Hooks & Ladders)
- 10:00 am-1:30 pm: River Art Station in the Shade Arbor
Students from Madera High, Matilda Torres, and Madera South High Schools, spent four months in the River Parkway Trust’s Voyagers: Investigating Sierras, Trails and Seas (VISTAS) program, paddling, hiking and camping throughout the San Joaquin River Watershed. The participants documented their experiences creatively and reflected upon their connection to the local environment and one another. For their final Capstone project, each participant has created a unique art project that represents their personal experience and connection to the San Joaquin River.
Join us for a day of free, family-friendly activities, a Q&A with VISTAS participants, and a chance to be a part of the exhibit! An art station will be set up on-site for youth attendees to create their own river-inspired art as well as fun group games.
Join us for a day of free, family-friendly activities, a Q&A with VISTAS participants, and a chance to be a part of the exhibit! An art station will be set up on-site for youth attendees to create their own river-inspired art as well as fun group games.
