Bannister Park - Park in Fair Oaks - 3820 Bannister Rd, USA

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.

Beautiful community park with a 1 mile paved path the American River - 2 miles to the river and back. It's a great place to enjoy the outdoors and get your steps in!

Awesome neighborhood park with huge fields for soccer and other sports. Playground equipment, clean toilets!! and free parking. Want to get in some steps? Walk from Bannister to the Sunrise Bridge over the Anerican River on a bike path or wooded trail. Round trip is about 2 miles! Plenty of wildlife and adventure!

A well maintained area, with restrooms, bike/hiking trails, fields, and access to the American river.

Trails and river access are well maintained . Bathrooms are fairly clean . Bannister park has free parking ansld an open field. Lots of people with their pets. Overall it's a great place to get out, walk and enjoy the riverside .Next time I'm bringing my bike, saw some great beginner trails!

The park has one table with benches. A workout fitness area. It also has a huge lawn with soccer goals set around. I believe it is a dog park also. The bike trail leads you to the Sunrise Recreation Park where they launch the tubes and rafts for rental. It also a nice spot to chill by the river after the biking or walking to get there

Beautiful park but unfortunately no playground. Great trails, River access.

Nice paved trail that is about two miles from the Parking lot at Bannister to the middle of the walking bridge at Sunrise. The only issue is bikes move fast through this section of the American River Trail so stay alert and watch for them.