The proximity of the Stanislaus National Forest to the
San Francisco Bay Area makes it a popular recreation destination. The volcanic and granite formations in the
wilderness exist alongside heavy cattle grazing. Whitewater
rafting and
kayaking can be found in the wild and scenic
Tuolumne River and
Cherry Creek. Other rivers flowing out of the Stanislaus include the
Clavey River, the
Stanislaus River, as well as the
Merced River along the southern boundary. Two ski resorts,
Dodge Ridge and
Bear Valley, operate here under a special use permit. == 2013 Rim Fire ==