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Frank Raines Regional Park
Overview
Frank Raines Regional Park offers a rugged escape nestled in the scenic Del Puerto Canyon. This Stanislaus County destination is divided into two distinct areas: the Deer Creek OHV Park and the Minniear Day Use Area. It provides a unique balance of high-energy recreation and peaceful canyon views, making it a standout choice for those traveling through the central part of the state who want to experience the natural beauty of the Diablo Range.
Location & Surroundings
Located roughly 18 miles west of Patterson, the park is situated along the winding roads of Del Puerto Canyon. The surrounding landscape is characterized by steep hillsides, seasonal creeks, and diverse wildlife. Because of its distance from major urban centers, the park feels wonderfully isolated, offering a quiet environment where the sounds of nature prevail. The drive into the canyon itself is a highlight, featuring dramatic rock formations and expansive vistas.
Amenities & Park Features
For RV travelers, the park provides functional sites designed for comfort in a rustic setting. Key features of the campground include:
- Full hookups providing water, sewer, and electrical connections.
- Access to restrooms and showers located within the park grounds.
- Individual sites equipped with fire rings and picnic tables.
A dedicated staging area serves those bringing off-road vehicles, ensuring easy access to the trails directly from the campsite, making it a convenient hub for adventure.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is the 800-acre OHV park, which offers a variety of trails ranging from easy flats to challenging hill climbs for motorized recreation. If you prefer a slower pace, the Minniear Day Use Area provides opportunities for scenic hiking and bird watching. In the spring, the canyon comes alive with vibrant wildflowers. For those interested in astronomy, the lack of light pollution makes this an excellent spot for stargazing after the sun sets over the ridges.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is a premier destination for off-road enthusiasts looking for a place to ride and camp in one location. However, it also appeals to nature lovers and RVers who enjoy a more primitive, canyon-style environment over a manicured resort. If you are looking for solitude and rugged terrain, Frank Raines provides a perfect backdrop for your next outdoor adventure in California’s central hills.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Panzer Faux
A park that's way out in the mountains ridge, works well as a rest stop after a long drive through the 130. The park is peaceful, away from any city, and a place for kids to play. Though, because it's away from civilization. The park will have a bit of vandalism and trash here and there. Overall, you will enjoy the peaceful mountain air here.
Max Villwock
Lovely park. The cow trails at the top get pretty gnarly. Fun stuff if you are into it.
Nicholas Jamieson
Grabbed lunch in Paterson, CA and then made the 17 mile drive to Frank Raines Regional Park to eat. Nice picnic area. Play structure for the kids. Grass with BBQ grills. Nice spot to enjoy some food and scenery!
Amanda Reynolds
Very clean and well maintained. The 16 mile drive into the canyon was very curved top speed of 20 mph. Beautiful tho! Kids ages 9 to 18 years old enjoyed it!!!
Nona B
Pretty place would not recommend to someone who only wants to go to the park. The park is really small. But i would definitely recommend just for the drive and the view. It was so beautiful I enjoyed the ride the whole way there. I stop on the side of the road a few times just to take in the view and to walk around the mountains