The park's riparian habitat is an example of a disappearing natural resource. The riparian plant and animal communities depend on each other. Large oaks and cottonwoods give the shade needed for the survival of cool-water creatures. Thick understories of elderberry, wild grape, blackberry, wild rose and perennials provide shelter to a diverse wildlife population.[2]
Big Chico Creek Day Use Area is characterized by a river habitat that opens up to a large gravel bar that fronts the Sacramento River. Here park visitors fish, swim, jet ski, water ski and sun bathe. This is also the location that many river rafts and tubes exit the river.[2]
Pine Creek Day Use Area is a common location for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, picnicking and bird and wildlife watching.[2]
Irvine Finch River Access is a 5-acre (2.0 ha) parking lot and launch ramp affording park visitors a means to access the Sacramento River for boating, canoeing or floating on inner tubes.[2]