Dave Moore Nature Area
A family-friendly nature area with a unique figurine hunt and sandy river beach on the South Fork American River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Dave Moore Nature Area
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A family-friendly nature area with a unique figurine hunt and sandy river beach on the South Fork American River.
"The perfect kid-friendly hike with a treasure hunt and river access!"
🎯 Bring Your Own Figurines!
Enhance the fun by bringing small toys to hide for others. Remember not to take them home!
👟 Easy & Accessible Trail
The main loop is a flat, one-mile path perfect for families and even wheelchair accessible.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 180 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Figurine Treasure Hunt
Search for hidden toys and leave your own for a fun, interactive experience for kids.
South Fork American River Beach
River access point
A sandy shore perfect for playing in the water, sand, and exploring rocks.
Shaded Woodland Trail
An easy, mostly flat one-mile loop through tall trees offering welcome shade.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Dinosaur Hunt Adventure
River Access & Trail Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bring Your Own Figurines!
Enhance the fun by bringing small toys to hide for others. Remember not to take them home!
👟 Easy & Accessible Trail
The main loop is a flat, one-mile path perfect for families and even wheelchair accessible.
💧 River Play Essentials
Pack swimsuits and towels for the sandy river access; kids love splashing and playing.
⚠️ Watch for Poison Oak
The return trail along the river may have poison oak; stick to the main loop for easier passage.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bring Your Own Figurines!
Enhance the fun by bringing small toys to hide for others. Remember not to take them home!
👟 Easy & Accessible Trail
The main loop is a flat, one-mile path perfect for families and even wheelchair accessible.
💧 River Play Essentials
Pack swimsuits and towels for the sandy river access; kids love splashing and playing.
⚠️ Watch for Poison Oak
The return trail along the river may have poison oak; stick to the main loop for easier passage.
🐶 Leashed Dogs Welcome
Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome to join the adventure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dave Moore Nature Area is highly praised as a family-friendly destination, particularly for its unique figurine treasure hunt and accessible river access. Visitors love the easy trail and the engaging activities for children. Some minor concerns include the potential for poison oak on less-maintained paths and the occasional disappearance of hidden toys.
"Figurine Hunt Update:
A few days ago we were on the trail, and my kids were really disappointed to find only a few toys. It looks like some had been taken. They love going there especially because of the little figurines hidden along the trail. It’s such a fun activity for kids to search for them and hide them in new spots.
So, they collected some small figurines at home, and today we placed about 30 new ones on the trail. Enjoy! And please remind the kids not to take them home — it’s even better if you add a few new ones. It’s always so much fun!
Dave Moore Nature Area is a fantastic place to visit with kids! We went on a Saturday at 11 AM, and while there were some families, it wasn’t too crowded. There is plenty of parking available, which makes the visit even more convenient. The trail is perfect for children, as they get to search for small dinosaur figurines along the way and leave them in new spots for others to find. We visited with three kids (ages 3, 5, and 9), and they all had a great time. About halfway through, there’s access to the river with a sandy shore where kids can play with water, sand, and rocks. We left soaked but happy! A must-visit for families."
Mary Rebikone
"Beautiful little loop trail. Perfect for kids and adults alike! And very easy! The trail to right of parking lot near restroom is easiest, and I believe wheelchair assessable. The trail from river up to left is slightly more difficult, and not wheelchair assessable."
Bob Dobolina
"Enjoyed the short loop trail. Large parking area and portable available"
K Thompson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dave Moore Nature Area is located in El Dorado County. The easiest way to find it is by using GPS coordinates: 38.81423, -120.92168. There is a large parking area available, making access convenient for visitors.
Yes, there is a large parking area available at the nature area, which is noted as a convenient feature by visitors.
While specific turn-by-turn directions can vary, using the provided GPS coordinates (38.81423, -120.92168) in your navigation app is the most reliable method.
Information regarding RV parking is limited, but the parking area is described as large. It's advisable to check local conditions or call ahead if you have a very large vehicle.
Dave Moore Nature Area is located in El Dorado County, and while not directly in a major town, it's a popular spot for those exploring the region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of an entrance fee for Dave Moore Nature Area, suggesting it is a free public access area.
Specific operating hours are not listed, but it's generally assumed to be open during daylight hours, similar to most nature areas.
No advance booking is required for Dave Moore Nature Area, as it's a public nature area with ample parking.
The primary restriction mentioned is that dogs must be kept on a leash.
While not officially stated, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions include a one-mile loop trail, a sandy beach on the South Fork American River, and a unique 'dinosaur figurine' treasure hunt for kids.
Absolutely! The one-mile loop is short, flat, and perfect for toddlers and young children, especially with the added fun of the figurine hunt.
You'll find beautiful tall trees providing shade, a sandy riverbank, and scenic views along the South Fork American River.
The trail from the parking lot near the restroom is described as easiest and wheelchair accessible. The trail from the river up to the left is more difficult.
Yes, there is a restroom available at the parking lot area.
Families can enjoy hiking, searching for hidden figurines, playing on the sandy river beach, and exploring the natural surroundings.
Yes, the sandy beach area along the South Fork American River is suitable for water play and swimming.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the shaded woodland trails, the sandy river beach with its rocks, and the joy of kids searching for hidden figurines. The butterflies along the water line are also a lovely sight.
Yes, the area offers diverse natural scenery, from the forest canopy to the riverbanks, making it a good spot for nature photographers.
Morning light can be beautiful filtering through the trees, and late afternoon can offer softer light along the river.
Yes, photographing the hidden figurines is part of the fun! It's a great way to document the treasure hunt experience.
The river access point with its sandy shore and rock formations offers a picturesque setting for photos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit