Small parking lot at the beginning with restroom. Nice grassy field to picnic. Once you head out you have three choices when you get about a 100 yards down the paved bike path. (1) Stay on the bike path (2) take the dirt trail towards San Juan Rapids which is what me and the fur baby do or (3) take the dirt trail on the left. All three choices end up at a nice picnic area with tables and benches. You can cool off in the river or cross Jims Bridge and continue the trail. Its fairly level on all three paths. There is some shade but be aware of occasional rattlesnake in the brush on hot days and coyotes. read more

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I grew up near bannister park! It's a wonderful place to play with your kids or bring friends to spend time together. You can ride bikes along the path or take a long walk to enjoy the scenery. There river access for you to float on the river or go fishing. There's tons to do at bannister park! read more

Hiking here offers an unparalleled experience. The trails are breathtaking, providing an opportunity to witness both unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and diverse wildlife. Additionally, the river's beauty is enhanced by its ethereal glow during nighttime and twilight. read more

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Great views lots of birds and dest. Right near the river so you can go in but burr 5.6 stars read more

As I have been continuing to venture out to some great outdoor areas, one place that is highly recommended for people of all ages is "Bannister Park". Located just a couple of blocks off of Fair Oaks Blvd. in Fair Oaks and directly next to Sacramento Waldorf School, this is one of the cleaner and more scenic parks in the greater Sacramento area. Parking can fill up quickly, especially on nice weekend days so its best to arrive as early as possible or towards the end of the day. Keep in mind that parking is only for 3 hours max; there are officers on site that track when each car arrives so keep that in mind. The park itself has a very large soccer field with fresh-cut manicured grass. There aren't really any picnic tables to enjoy your lunch so if you do wish to eat here, I would recommend bringing a blanket. There are plenty of trash bins as well as a men's/women's restroom that is kept relatively clean. This park is dog friendly but I highly recommend that dogs are kept on a leash or at least in close proximity to their owner. But one of Bannister Parks big advantages compared to other parks is its close proximity to the American River. Also known as "San Juan Rapids Trail", this is a relatively easy 2.9 mile roundtrip walk that is paved (ideal of joggers/cyclists) and then eventually an actual trail that is adjacent to the river. As I have hiked this trail on numerous occasions, it is easy enough for small children and dogs. On any given day, you will see lots of wildlife including deer, birds, squirrels, and wild turkeys. Keep a lookout because there has been mountain lion and coyote sightings. The best months to visit this park are March through May and October. Since there is not much shade out here, the summer months can be uncomfortably hot. If you do happen to make it down to the river access area, there are several areas to dip your feet in the river. It almost feels as if you're miles and miles away from civilization with peaceful tranquil surroundings. All in all, "Bannister Park" is an excellent choice for people that wish to relax, unwind, or hike on a nice day. My rating, four stars. read more

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Space is abundant here as are the trees. The main path is paved and leads to other paths along the American Rivers. The entrance is nestled in a residential area. As soon as you drive into the parking lot, one is surrounded by the green lawn and trees. There is an public restroom building that was accessible. The parking lot is a good size and easy to maneuver. As soon as one enters the walking path and tree area, it the world cuts off quickly and enjoying nature begins. The path is wide to allow spacing and/or groups together. read more

Bannister Park - Lots of space and views - Parks Near Me - Fair Oaks, California

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We went here for a little hike on the bike trail to the river. Parking is free but only for 3 hours, which is fine for a jaunt. We followed a sign that said "River Access", but after that, there were no signs and we came to many forks in the road where we just guessed at the direction of the river. We made it and it was lovely and serene. We were the only people on the bank and we saw hawks and ducks. It was a bit of a pain not having clear trails though, but hey! We got to explore :) read more

Bannister Park - River bank - Parks Near Me - Fair Oaks, California

What a beautiful trail and bike path. I have been walking the trail for about the pass 12 years and it never gets old. I highly recommend the trail when you just need some nature and peace and find your zen.... Lots of beautiful birds, grassy trails and beautiful trickling river with views of the gorgeous sunsets... The trail is very safe.... I have never had an encounter.... lots of people riding their bikes, jogging, walking their babies in strollers and elderly enjoying the beauty. One thing to be aware of is bobcats, coyotes and Mountain lions... I have seen all.... keep your dog close and kids under wraps..... read more

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I came here several times when I was in the area for a vacation. It's a small park but it has access to the trail along the American River which was great. I ended up taking the nonpaved path a couple of times and I got lost which was fun actually. read more

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Tucked away in a neighborhood we found this park with appeared to be just a soccer field. I had no idea that there were trails and river access. We took one of the trails as and veered off to the far right where we found a sign that indicated river access. we followed it down for about 20 minutes finally finding the water which leads right to a tiny beach and an area near the grand rapids of the river perfect place to find some solitude on the weekends. The trail was rocky but otherwise had some pretty views and some wildlife to look out for. Definitely will be here again **Free** read more

Bannister Park - Parks Near Me - Fair Oaks, California

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Love it. Fresh air and nice people around, walk is everything for me so this is the place where I can relax. read more

Bannister Park - Parks Near Me - Fair Oaks, California

Located on the same road as Waldorf School in Fair Oaks, Bannister park is usually busy on the weekends with soccer games. They do have a small car park so you can park and go for a walk to the river or ride your bike on the bike trail. Just came here for a quick break from writing a report. I originally came here to check out the American River, but found a boomerang in the back seat (as you do). The open field called to me and I ended up tossing the boomerang around. Although I am getting the hang of it, I can't get it to come back! read more

Bannister Park - Parking lot - not very useful as it doesn't show the field. - Parks Near Me - Fair Oaks, California

Truly one of the most beautiful trails I have been blessed to discover! There are beautiful gorgeous trees galore and a beautiful river where I saw happy folks fishing while enjoying the peace and quiet with scenic views. I was informed during the spring soon we'll be able to see beautiful flowers all around so I am very excited to see this Wonderland even more beautiful! There are also restrooms along the path and picnic areas too. Very easy trail mostly flat with little hills except for one at the end of the trail just before returning to the parking lot. We were able to complete just over 5 miles total. Surely gonna return here countless times! read more

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I was recommended to go to this park by my old friend mr. George. I don't understand why it took me so long to finally take his word of advice, because this park is absolutely amazing! To start off, this park is located in a fairly quiet and really up kept neighborhood of Fair Oaks and they have ample parking in a parking lot with restroom and water fountain. Next to the parking lot and there is a huge filled with really nice grass and is ideal to play soccer or some frisbee or maybe make your dog run around for hours on end. There is also a small jungle gym right next to the restroom area which she can do your stretching or you can do some calisthenic exercises or upper body development exercises using the pull up bars. Also good for stretching like I said. When I first got here this morning I saw some people doing yoga on the field. Now you can walk, jog, or mountain bike, or even road bike on this Trail. The reason being because there are multiple Pathways to take. For those who wish to take the easiest path or the smoothest path, just simply go straight and follow the asphalt Trail and it will lead you to the pedestrian bridge. If you wish a more challenging activity, take the right where it says River Trail. I must warn you you must use some type of map such as Google Maps to pinpoint where you are at because once you enter this River Trail pathway, the surface becomes really Rocky and it is alternating elevations. There is also multiple side Trails which are branched off of the main trail and your goal is to reach the riverfront so that you can follow the riverfront on down to the pedestrian bridge. I want to say overall, if you take the riverfront trail and double back onto the asphalt Trail you're looking at about close to 2 miles in distance. Therefore I give this place a Solid 5 stars! read more

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Excellent hiking and biking area. Plenty of trails to explore, plenty of places along the river to fish, get wet, picnic area. Dusty and hot in CA August is to be expected. Bring water. An excellent place for some downtime. read more

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My wife and I go there with our dog and sometimes with bikes. It's really quiet and it's like a small wilderness tucked away in the city. The people are great and the river is wonderful read more

We were excited to check this park out with the dogs and spend some lazy time by the river. Based on the site and Yelp pix, I was under the impression that the river banks were closers than they were. We ended up taking a four miles hike without planning to. There was a sign for river access when we first started our walk, but after that, we didn't see any signs and we got lost a couple of times. By the time we got to the water, the areas weren't that big for us to just lounge. It's a great place to hike, and several trails, but beware that you will be walking of a lot of rocks from time to time. It was great exercise but just wasn't what we were looking for. The park itself was small but well maintained. Lots of people were out there with their dogs. We saw lots of colorful butterflies which was cool too. read more

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This is a great starting place for walking or running. We bring our puppies to walk here. There are generally a good amount of people that you will see. If you walk over the walking bridge and pass the sunrise bridge and the red bridge, all the way to the bench at the rapids and back, that's four miles! It's beautiful out here! read more

Bannister Park - Parks Near Me - Fair Oaks, California

Nice hiking trails, but pretty dry. . Once we got to the water, it was bliss! Saw some deer and some lizards. .and trails are pretty easy! read more

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Live it, close to home/old town however because of what I love about it also attracts trouble; trouble moves. Most people are in pairs or with dogs; i have neither for my daily fix of the river and trees. Have to be extra careful with the new of homeless & people going missing, so I been told. Nothing against the park; that's signs of the times. Actually that has nothing to do with the park itself but the river access adjacent to it. read more

Bannister Park - By Jim's¿ bridge - Parks Near Me - Fair Oaks, California

It was nice and quite. I wish the trail loops around than just stretched straight. The only complaint I had was leaves on the ground are so sticky. It stuck everywhere, to my dog and the stroller. read more

Bannister Park - Parks Near Me - Fair Oaks, California

We've been coming to this park since moving to the Sacramento region 23 years ago. It's a special place to connect with nature and enjoy natural beauty and calm. Unfortunately several years back, while walking my dog down the hill from the parking lot on the paved asphalt road where people walk and bike, my dog yanked me hard towards another dog walking up the hill, and due to the decline and wearing birkenstocks, I hit the pavement with my teeth, my left hand crumpled underneath me, breaking several fingers, my wrist and two teeth. I stayed away from Bannister Park for a few years, feeling quite jinxed by the experience. A young person I talked to advised me he suffered a concussion skateboarding down that very same hill. It doesn't appear to be a big hill, and you may not even notice it, but do be careful. It helps to wear appropriate footwear and don't take unnecessary risks. Also be advised that people ride down that hill on bicycles at top speed. It can be potentially hazardous. Up until my accident, the only difficult thing I experienced at this park was a long rattlesnake leisurely crossing the road. We were in no danger and it was exciting. Lots of cool encounters with nature here! read more

The area is huge so there is plenty of room to ride bikes or let your dog run around. My main issue was the lack of signage. There is one sign showing river access but once you go down that path it branches out into many others without signage.. other than that it is nice. There is a small children's jungle gym in the parking lot area as well as soccer fields. Once you walk down the blacktop Road you reach the area to hike read more

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What an awesome little place. Took our kids on an impromptu adventure today and found the trails and river here. The kids had a blast, saw lots of nature, it was great. I recommend this! read more

My favorite place to be in sacramento. The parking is free and no permit required before 5pm on weekdays, and no permit on weekend. Which is when most people come anyways. I love the trails, walking my dog there is so peaceful. You don't have to walk where all cyclists are they are many other trails that lead to the river. I let my dog swim sometimes, it's not overcrowded at all unlike all other places around Sacramento. The scenery is gorgeous, free entrance, you must check it out! One tip though there are some suspicious men out there so be sure to come with at least pepper spray. read more

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One of the best locations to visit on the river! Humongous area to hike through with lots of trails, trees, wildlife and seasonal lakes that fill up during the rainy season! During the salmon runs this is a good place to observe the salmon moving up stream to lay eggs! You will also see deer, coyotes, fox, jackrabbits, turkey, turkey vultures, hawks, turtles, rattlesnakes, ( BEWARE! ) river otters, raccoons, skunks and squirrels! Weekends and holidays will bring lots of people but if you visit on the weekdays you will have the whole place to yourself! read more

Bannister Park - Sunset over American river near Bannister park! - Parks Near Me - Fair Oaks, California

Nice place to take a break while walking or biking along the American River Bike Trail. There are picnic tables, bathrooms and some signs posted with descriptions of the native wildlife in the area. The shady areas and water fountain can come in handy on a hot day. read more

Lovely park with a river, enjoyed the trail. I wish they had a trail map so that I didn't need to use my phone to navigate myself back to the parking lot.The trails are not shaded, so probably not during the summer time. read more

We brought our dogs here to come hiking. I have to say..they have a decent amount of parking, very clean/well kept bathrooms, a workout area & soccer field. Its a very nice little set up tucked in a residential area. There is river access via the trails and the water is so pretty! The trails arent very well marked so its easy to get a lil lost but eventually you find the way, bring water! read more

It's an awesome hike and river access except for the cop always sitting in the parking lot

Amazing. This place is nice to go on a date or even a little adventure to see nature. Different trials. Dog friendly read more

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Took my 5 month old pitbull puppy here for the first time today and she had a blast!! I chose a time when I didn't think there would be too many people seeing as though my pup gets overly excited. So we went a little after mid day on a Friday. The weather was perfect, and the trails were as I expected, relatively empty. We only ran into maybe 4 or 5 other people walking their dogs. As we were walking the main trail, I noticed there were so many different ways we could branch off! Since it was our first time here I stuck to the main trail that led to a nice walk right along the American River. There were a couple of little openings where you could walk down to the river, which we did for a little while. Overall, the scenery was beautiful and the other dog walkers were courteous and their dogs were well behaved. Already planning on going back next week! read more

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This is a beautiful spot right in town. We enjoyed a nearly five mile hike and dipping our toes in the river. Happy to find this spot. Couldn't hear traffic which is always a huge plus. read more

Bannister Park - Parks Near Me - Fair Oaks, California

Great place to start a walk or run about 1 mile from the river. Get there early since the parking fills up pretty quick. I bring my dog here all the time and theres a field he can run around. Lots of shade the first mile down towards the river. read more

It's awesome for a stroller and for cycling. Parking is free for three hours. Around 1 mile to the river. I love it! Will come more often! read more

This place seems to have become an unofficial dog park. We had fun with our dog and his doggy cousin today. We also cleaned up after our dogs, which leads me to the horrible problem here. There is a ridiculous amount of dog poop on the trails. It is literally everywhere you look. I don't know what kind of psycho lets their dog crap on a public trail and doesn't clean it up. There were so many huge dumps right in the very middle of the trail. I was starting to think some of these dumps were intentionally made and might actually be human dumps from someone who doesn't wipe. If you are one of the feces people, please stay home so your dog can poop all over and only your own kids have to step in it. read more

I absolutely love hiking here. There are so many different trails to take and you can just get lost for a few hours and tune out of life. I wish they hard more garbage cans along the way in case you need to dispose of animal waste. I like how they have bathrooms and an area for stretching/working out. The huge field they have in front is great as well. Be careful about parking though you can get a ticket if you don't have a pass and park after hours listed on sign. read more

We just moved into an apartment down the street and decided to check this place out. There are so many trails and they seem to all circle back to each other so you don't have to turn around to get back. There are quite a few people here but the place is so large its not like you won't have your own space. We've gone twice so far this week and plan to go tomorrow too! This is a great place to bring your dogs. I was hoping for fishing spots but the river is way too flooded. read more

Bannister park itself is not much more than a parking lot with a couple soccer fields and a restroom. However, it is a great place to launch from if you are looking for a good walk in the Fair Oaks area. The park has direct access to the American River bike trail, as well as a series of "hiking" trails that wind through the banks of the American River. It is also a great place to take your dog on a walk, however be careful during snake season as rattle snakes love to sun themselves on the hot rocks. read more

Beautiful hiking trails, rarely crowded with access to the river. Real gem