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
"Views of the Valley"
A showcase of artwork created by the
San Joaquin Valley Plein Air Painters
Now until October 29th, Saturdays and Sundays 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
San Joaquin Valley Plein Air Painters will be hosting a reception on Sunday, September 10th, 2023, from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm at the River Center Ranch House.
Plein air painting is the practice of creating art outdoors, directly in the natural environment. It emphasizes capturing the essence of a scene, often with a focus on natural light and atmosphere.
Laura Silberman
Sally Moss
Marilyn Torchin