Although it may seem steeped in Medieval Times tradition, Knights Ferry is named for the town's founder William Knight who established a ferry at this key location on the Stanislaus River. Gold was discovered around the river and Knight minted his own fortune by transporting miners across the Stanislaus River.

Now considered a mining ghost town, Knights Ferry is rich in historical artifacts including the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi and the Knights Ferry Visitor Center. The Williams Ranch was once a filming location for Bonanza and Little House on the Prairie.

Rafters also love launching from Knights Ferry for rafting trips down the Stanislaus River.