Ranch House Exhibits
Browse a variety of exhibits relating to the culture, nature, and history of the San Joaquin River and environs.
You won't want to miss the fantastic art exhibits on display in the restored 1890s Ranch House. We work with local artists and rotate exhibits throughout the year. We will post information about artist receptions.
All Exhibits are available to the public when the River Center is open, Saturdays and Sundays, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm.
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
San Joaquin Plein Aire Painters
"Plein-Aire Landscapes of the Valley"
Laura Silberman
Susan Guzzetta
Randy Viger
February 1st - May 25th, 2025
Open every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Opening reception on Saturday, February 1st, 2024, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm; closing reception on Saturday, May 24th, 2025, 11:00am - 2:00pm.
Come discuss beautiful artwork with the San Joaquin Plein Aire Painters. Light refreshments will be provided.
Connie M. Claes
Maxine Fargason