Oakhurst River Parkway

Discover the Oakhurst River Parkway (ORP) in Oakhurst, California, near Yosemite National Park and Bass Lake. This picturesque 3.5-mile trail offers a variety of walking paths along the Fresno River and its tributaries, Oak Creek, and China Creek, providing a scenic escape right in the heart of Oakhurst.

Established in 1992 by a dedicated group of local citizens and supported by organizations like the Eastern Madera County Chamber of Commerce, the parkway has transformed into an ecological haven for wildlife, their many enthusiasts, and hikers as well.

Oakhurst, originally known as Fresno Flats, is a town with a rich history dating back to its days as a settlement for both Native Americans and, later, 1800s settlers drawn by the allure of gold and the majestic Yosemite National Park, established as a National Park in 1890. The town was a bustling hub featuring a hotel, restaurant, saloon, and more catering to tourists and miners alike.

The history of this vibrant community is well preserved at the Fresno Flats Historical Village & Park, located along the Oak Creek portion of the Oakhurst River Parkway. Visitors can explore historic buildings and learn about the town’s transformation from a stagecoach stop to a thriving community.

Oakhurst River Parkway brochure is available to download or view online. The brochure includes a map, a lot info & history about the ORP, as well as the Eco Walk Check List. This is a family-fun way to encourage everyone to seek out and try to identify the wide variety of plants and animals that can be found along the amazing ecosystem that is the Oakhurst River Parkway.