Introducing Elkhorn Station: River Fox Train’s Newest Family Experience in West Sacramento
If you’ve ever visited the River Fox Train, you already know it’s one of the most unique and memorable experiences in the Sacramento area. From seasonal themed rides like the Easter Train, Pumpkin Express and Magical Christmas Train, to relaxing scenic journeys along the river, it has long been a go-to for families, date nights, and group outings.
But now, something even bigger is happening.
The River Fox Train is expanding beyond the rails—and introducing an entirely new way to experience the magic. Welcome to Elkhorn Station, a brand-new outdoor destination designed for families, locals, and visitors to gather, play, and enjoy the beauty of the Sacramento River in a whole new way.
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What Is Elkhorn Station?
Elkhorn Station is the River Fox Train’s newest addition: a dedicated outdoor gathering space that transforms the train experience into something much more immersive.
Rather than simply arriving, boarding, and departing, guests now have a place to linger—before and after their ride or even as a standalone destination. This thoughtfully designed space brings together entertainment, relaxation, and family-friendly fun in one scenic location.
Set along the Sacramento River, Elkhorn Station creates an inviting, open-air environment where you can slow down, spread out, and enjoy time together. Whether you’re planning a full day adventure or just stopping by for a few hours, it’s designed to fit seamlessly into your plans.
A One-of-a-Kind Outdoor Destination in West Sacramento
What makes Elkhorn Station especially exciting is that it fills a gap in the local experience. West Sacramento hasn’t traditionally had a space quite like this—one that blends recreation, relaxation, and entertainment into a single destination.
This isn’t just a waiting area or an add-on—it’s a complete experience on its own.
River Fox Train’s goals are to create a space where:
- Families can gather and spend meaningful time together
- Visitors can enjoy multiple activities in one place
- The community has a welcoming outdoor destination
It’s a fresh take on what a train experience can be—turning it into a full-day outing rather than a single scheduled activity.
A Scenic Setting Along the Sacramento River
One of the standout features of Elkhorn Station is its location.
Nestled along the Sacramento River, the space offers a peaceful and picturesque backdrop that instantly sets the tone for your visit. Think wide open skies, fresh air, and scenic views that make everything feel a little more relaxed.
This natural setting plays a huge role in the overall experience. It encourages guests to slow down, spread out, and enjoy the moment—something that’s increasingly rare in busy, fast-paced family outings.
Whether you’re watching the kids play lawn games, sipping a drink in the sunshine, or simply taking in the river views, Elkhorn Station makes it easy to feel present and connected.
Designed for Families (and Everyone Else, Too)
At its core, Elkhorn Station is designed with families in mind—but its appeal goes far beyond that.
The space is intentionally created to be:
- Family-friendly for kids of all ages
- Flexible for groups, gatherings, and casual visits
- Welcoming for both locals and tourists
- Relaxed with a come-and-go atmosphere
You don’t need a strict schedule or a detailed plan to enjoy your time here. You can drop in, explore, and create your own experience based on what you feel like doing that day.
This flexibility is part of what makes Elkhorn Station so special—it adapts to your pace instead of the other way around.
Lawn Games and Outdoor Fun
One of the biggest highlights of Elkhorn Station is the variety of lawn games and activities available for guests.
This isn’t just a patch of grass—it’s an interactive space designed for play and connection.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Mini Golf
- Bocce Ball
- Cornhole
- Bucket Golf
- Horseshoes
- Gold Panning
These games make it easy for families to jump right into the fun, whether you’re playing a friendly round of mini golf or teaching your kids how to toss a perfect cornhole shot.
Some activities may be available as individual purchases, giving you the flexibility to choose what you want to experience.
Food, Drinks, and a Relaxed Vibe
No great outing is complete without good food—and Elkhorn Station delivers with a casual, approachable setup.
Guests can enjoy:
- An on-site café grill with food and refreshments
- A beer and wine garden for adults
- Pay-as-you-go pricing so you can customize your experience
This setup keeps things simple and stress-free. You’re not locked into a package—you can grab a snack, enjoy a drink, or sit down for a casual bite whenever it fits into your day.
It’s perfect for families who want options without overcommitting, and for adults who want to relax while the kids play nearby.
Movies, Concerts, and Special Events
Elkhorn Station isn’t just a daytime destination—it’s designed to come alive in the evenings, too.
On select nights, guests can look forward to:
- Outdoor movie nights
- Seasonal concerts
- Extended evening hours
Special programming is already planned around key holidays like Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, making Elkhorn Station a go-to spot for celebrating summer with friends and family.
These events add an extra layer of excitement and give guests even more reasons to return throughout the year.
A Seamless Extension of the River Fox Train Experience
One of the most exciting aspects of Elkhorn Station is how seamlessly it integrates with existing River Fox Train experiences.
Instead of being separate, everything works together to create a multi-experience destination.
During your visit, you can:
- Ride the River Fox Train
- Try Railbike adventures
- Explore the park and play games
- Enjoy food and drinks
- Stay for evening entertainment
This “one destination, multiple experiences” approach means you can build an entire day around your visit without ever needing to leave the property.
Open to the Public (and Free to Enter!)
One of the most appealing features of Elkhorn Station is its accessibility.
- Open daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Extended hours: On select event nights
- Entry: Free and open to the public
That’s right—you don’t need a train ticket to enjoy Elkhorn Station.
This makes it an easy, low-pressure option for families looking for something fun to do without committing to a full experience. You can stop by for a quick visit or stay for hours—it’s completely up to you.
Perfect for Groups, Gatherings, and Celebrations
Because of its open layout and flexible design, Elkhorn Station is also ideal for group outings.
Whether you’re planning:
- A birthday celebration
- A family reunion
- A casual get-together with friends
- A community meetup
The space naturally accommodates groups of all sizes.
With room to spread out, activities for all ages, and food available on-site, it takes the stress out of planning and allows everyone to simply enjoy the experience.
Why Elkhorn Station Is a Game-Changer
Elkhorn Station represents a major shift in how people experience the River Fox Train.
Instead of being a single activity, it becomes:
- A destination
- A gathering space
- A full-day experience
As one River Fox Train leader shared, the goal is to create a place where guests can enjoy multiple experiences in one visit—from outdoor games and food to train rides and Railbike adventures.
This approach makes Elkhorn Station more than just an addition—it’s a transformation.
Tips for Visiting Elkhorn Station
If you’re planning your first visit, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:
1. Come with a flexible plan
You don’t need to schedule every minute—part of the fun is exploring at your own pace.
2. Bring the whole family
There’s something for every age group, from toddlers to adults.
3. Consider pairing with a train ride
While not required, combining Elkhorn Station with a River Fox Train experience creates a full-day outing.
4. Check for special events
Movie nights and concerts can elevate your visit even more.
5. Stay awhile
With food, games, and open space, it’s worth giving yourself time to fully enjoy everything.
River Fox Train Experiences to Book
The River Fox Train offers a variety of unique experiences that go far beyond a traditional train ride. Here are some of the top experiences to try:
- Railbikes – Pedal your way along the tracks on a scenic route with electric assist, perfect for families and beginners
- Afternoon Tea Train – Enjoy tea, light bites, and a charming vintage dining experience
- Beer & Wine Trains – Sip local craft beverages while taking in beautiful river views
- Boba Tea Train – A fun and unique experience featuring boba drinks onboard
- Murder Mystery Train – An interactive ride with live entertainment and a themed storyline
- Seasonal & Holiday Trains – Special events like Christmas trains and festive themed rides throughout the year
- Skunk Train – The Skunk Train is a sister train to the River Fox Train, offering a scenic ride through Northern California’s redwood forests and rugged landscapes for a unique and unforgettable experience. See our guide to the Pumpkin Express Skunk Train in Willits.
Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning a special outing, these experiences make the River Fox Train a memorable destination for all ages.
Final Thoughts: A New Must-Visit Spot in West Sacramento
Elkhorn Station is more than just a new feature—it’s a completely new way to experience one of Sacramento’s most beloved attractions.
With its scenic riverfront setting, family-friendly atmosphere, and wide range of activities, it offers something that’s been missing in the area: a place to gather, play, and simply enjoy time together.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the River Fox Train or discovering it for the first time, Elkhorn Station is a destination you’ll want to add to your list.
And the best part? You can experience it your way—no rush, no pressure, just a beautiful space designed for making memories.
