Ryer Island

Ryer Island is an agricultural island in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, located where Miner Slough and Steamboat Slough meet the Sacramento River. The terrain is flat and devoted to farming, with levees and waterways that define the landscape.

The island formed when the western branch of the Sacramento River divided the land during California's early statehood, with the western section originally called Priest Island and the eastern part Sutter Island. Over time these areas merged under the Ryer name.

The name honors Dr. Washington M. Ryer and his family, who settled here during California's early years. Locals and visitors recognize the island as part of a historic settlement pattern that shaped the delta region.

Two vehicle ferries, the Real McCoy II and J-Mack, connect the island to Rio Vista and Highway 220 near Ryde. The crossings are free and run regularly, allowing visitors to travel without advance reservations.

The J-Mack ferry is a small vessel that carries just a handful of vehicles and functions as a direct road extension across Steamboat Slough. This modest connection is so integral to local infrastructure that it operates like a floating bridge.

GPS coordinates: 38.08270,-122.01441

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:43