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.
Current Art Gallery Exhibit
Anne Scheid and Carolyn Zutler present An art exhibition about water, rivers and F L O W
Anne Scheid
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Anne Scheid
Caroyln Zutler
June 6th – August 29th, 2026
Open every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Opening reception on Saturday, June 13th, 2026, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Rotary Sponsored Reception on Tuesday, August 18th, 2026, 6:00pm – 7:30pm
Closing reception on Saturday August 29th, 2026, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Visit the River Center Art Gallery to observe the abstract wonder inspired by water, created by talented local artists. Discuss F L O W with the artists themselves on June 13th during the opening reception. Light refreshments will be provided.
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Anne Scheid
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Carolyn Zutler