Discovery Park | Sacramento

Discovery Park is one of Sacramento's most expansive and versatile public parks. Nestled at the junction of the American River and Sacramento River, the park serves not only as a recreational haven but also as a vital piece of Sacramento's flood control infrastructure. Below is a detailed overview of its features, uses, history, and logistics:

1. Location and Size

Discovery Park spans 302 acres and lies just northwest of downtown Sacramento. Its geographical position—at the confluence of two major rivers—makes it a significant point for both recreational access and environmental management.

Address: 1600 Garden Highway, Sacramento, CA 95833

Boundaries: Garden Highway (north), I-5 freeway (east), and the American and Sacramento Rivers (south and west)

2. Natural Setting

The park is known for its open fields, groves of mature trees, riverbanks, and wildlife-rich environments. It offers panoramic views of the rivers and shaded areas ideal for picnicking or relaxing. The confluence zone is also an important habitat for migratory birds, fish species (including salmon), and small mammals like river otters and beavers.

3. Recreational Features

Boating and Water Access

Boat Launch Facility: A modern 6-lane boat ramp with floating docks allows access to both rivers.

Watercraft Use: Kayaks, fishing boats, and jet skis are commonly launched here.

Fishing: Anglers catch striped bass, catfish, steelhead, and sturgeon. Fishing requires a California fishing license.

Trails

Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail (also known as the American River Parkway Trail):

Begins at Discovery Park and runs 32 miles to Folsom Lake

Used by cyclists, joggers, walkers, and skaters

Paved, tree-lined, and follows the American River

Trail access is free and open year-round (except during flooding)

Picnic Areas

Multiple reservable sites (each accommodating 100–250 guests)

Equipped with BBQ grills, picnic tables, trash receptacles

Some sites near the riverbank for scenic views

Available for private events, reunions, and company picnics

Sports Facilities

Open Fields: Suitable for soccer, frisbee, kite flying, and informal games

Softball Field: Available to the public

Archery Range: Managed in coordination with local archery groups

4. Events and Festivals

Discovery Park has become a premier outdoor festival venue, capable of hosting tens of thousands of visitors.

Major Events Include:

Aftershock Festival (October): The largest rock and metal music event in California, with multiple stages and international acts. Draws 50,000+ attendees daily.

Sol Blume (August): Focused on R&B, soul, and hip-hop, featuring top-tier talent and diverse crowds.

GoldenSky Festival (October): A large-scale country music event, often following Aftershock, attracting fans from across the western U.S.

Other Uses:

Charity walks and runs

Food truck festivals

Outdoor yoga and fitness bootcamps

Movie nights in the park (seasonal)

Note: Large events require advance ticket purchase and may close the park to general public access during festival dates.

5. Wildlife and Ecology

The park's riverside ecosystem supports a range of wildlife:

Birds: Herons, egrets, ducks, geese, red-tailed hawks, and migratory songbirds

Aquatic life: Salmon (seasonal runs), steelhead, sturgeon

Mammals: Coyotes, raccoons, beavers, squirrels, and occasionally deer

Pollinator areas: Designated zones planted with native species to attract butterflies and bees

Efforts are in place to preserve the riparian habitats and promote ecological awareness.

6. Flood Control and Seasonal Closures

Discovery Park is located within a designated floodplain. During high rainfall or snowmelt, the park is intentionally allowed to flood as part of the Sacramento River Flood Control Project.

Flood Season: Typically from late December through early March

Closures: The entire park or parts of it may be closed during high water conditions

Drainage and Reopening: After water recedes, cleanup and reopening may take several weeks

These features protect downstream neighborhoods and infrastructure from flooding.

7. Visitor Tips

Bring insect repellent in warm months (mosquitoes can be common near the river)

Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F – shade is limited in some areas

Binoculars are helpful for birdwatching near the river mouth and wooded sections

Helmets are required for cyclists under 18

Portable shade tents are allowed in open lawn areas