From peaceful secret sanctuaries to beautiful picnic spots, these local gardens offer an opportunity to unwind and relax.
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With spring in the rearview and sunny summer upon us, local gardens are in full bloom again. If you are seeking a peaceful sanctuary in nature, a beautiful spot for a picnic, a secluded lovers’ escape, a pathway for a revitalizing stroll or simply a place where you can unwind and relax, this list of some of our favorite gardens in Sonoma County was made for you.
You can take a tranquil walk or picnic among breathtaking flowers and foliage native to Asia without leaving Sonoma County. Located just outside of Glen Ellen, Sonoma Botanical Garden (formerly Quarryhill Botanical Garden) has blossomed into an expansive showcase of plant species from Asia and California over the course of nearly 40 years. A focus on conservation has long been a part of Sonoma Botanical Garden’s ethos. Founded by Jane Davenport Jansen in 1987, the garden was started from wild seeds collected on expeditions to Asia. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 12841 Highway 12, Glen Ellen, 707-996-3166, sonomabg.org
Tucked away in the Hessel Area of Sebastopol, this is a nursery and a magical secret garden all in one. Rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and Japanese maples are among the many plants available for purchase at Botanica Nursery and Gardens (formerly Hidden Forest Nursery), but the highlight of a visit to the nursery just might be a walk around its verdant grounds. Walking along the two miles of trails that wind through the botanical reserve feels like a journey to an enchanted land. Guided docent tours through the 7.5 acres are also available the first and third Saturday morning of each month. Open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Monday; other times by appointment. 3970 Azalea Lane, Sebastopol. 707-823-6832, botanicanurseryandgardens.com
The Russian River Rose Company’s show garden in Healdsburg features over 650 different roses and 202 irises. Guided tours can be booked for a fee to see the full splendor of the garden and its many flower varieties. Among some of the garden’s highlights are the Rose Allee (eight arches covered with climbing roses), a Butterfly Garden, an Iris Garden and a Perfume Distillery where rose water and perfume are produced. 1685 Magnolia Drive, Healdsburg. 707-433-7455, russian-river-rose.com
Situated on over 5 acres, this expansive rose farm cultivates 8,000 rosebushes. There are a variety of ways to experience Petaluma’s historic Garden Valley Ranch. You can buy tickets for a day of flower foraging when the roses are in bloom or make a reservation to stay overnight at the property’s romantic garden cottage. The venue also can be booked for weddings and private events. 498 Pepper Road, Petaluma. 707-795-0919, gardenvalley.com
You will not want to miss this plant lovers’ oasis in Occidental. Western Hills Garden features an array of species collected from far-off places such as Australia, South America and South Africa. Set on a 3-acre property, the garden has five ponds, 34 bridges and everything from rare conifers to endangered Chinese maples to a camellia forest. For a fee, visitors can walk through the garden on their own or book a guided tour with a group. 16250 Coleman Valley Road, Occidental. westernhillsgarden.com
There is nothing quite like seeing lavender fields in bloom. Monte-Bellaria di California opens its lavender farm to visitors for country walks during weekends starting in April, but it’s during early summer when the lavender is in full color. Pre-paid, timed tickets are required during this “High Bloom Season” that goes from June 2o to July 27. Though not as colorful later in the year, visitors can also take walks on weekends when the lavender aromas reach their peak during the farm’s “High Fragrance Season” from Aug. 2 through Aug. 31. 3518 Bloomfield Road, Sebastopol. 707-829-2645, monte-bellaria.com
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]]>Discover the creative side of Sonoma County for free on a public art day trip exploring vibrant murals from local artists.
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“If these walls could talk” goes the saying — in Sonoma County, they can. Thanks to the work of talented artists, the facades of our local buildings share stories that reflect this area: beautiful, colorful and diverse.
Discover the creative side of Sonoma County by checking out some of our favorite local murals. Summer is a great time to get outside for a public art day trip.
Maxfield Bala fell in love with drawing and all things art when he was a middle school student doodling in the corners of his notebooks. As a Petaluma local, he never thought he would have an opportunity to bring his small drawings to life in a big way. Today, Bala is one of a handful of North Bay artists sought out by local art committees and city planning departments to design and paint larger-than-life public art installations. 2557 Petaluma Blvd. S., Petaluma
This mural, spanning 50-feet wide and 13-feet tall, is one of multiple projects Bala has been asked to contribute to Sonoma County. “The welcome mural I am painting has so many features that represent the city that are iconic to Petaluma that we have all grown up with as a community,” said 25-year-old Bala in a 2019 interview. “It is just nice to give back to the community in the way I know how, which is through art.” Petaluma Boulevard South, along Highway 101 heading toward San Francisco.
A “splash of cosmic color” in downtown Petaluma, local artist Ricky Watts’s 3,000-square-foot mural transformed the southern wall of the Phoenix Theater into a huge outdoor art exhibit in 2013. In 2015, Claus Brigmann, with the help of Mike Hollibaugh, built a solar-powered LED lighting system to illuminate the mural after dark. Watts describes his artwork’s abstract style as “space rainbows,” with fluid shapes and colors that intertwine. The Phoenix Theater, 201 Washington St., Petaluma
Alleyways aren’t typically known for their photographic potential, but Petaluma’s American Alley is an exception. This hidden gem is home to abstract and realist murals. Painted on historic brick buildings, they offer a glimpse into the life of the working class. The murals were painted by various artists during the O+ Festival in November 2015. Located between Petaluma Boulevard North and Kentucky Street, off of Washington Street.
Artist Rima Makaryan, a Montgomery High School junior, wants people to see beauty in the immigrant experience, and not just focus on border walls, family separations and other charged elements of the current debate. Drawing on her own experience as an Armenian immigrant, Makaryan pushes viewers of her work to appreciate those who come to this country seeking better lives, or to escape hardship or violence in their native lands. Montgomery High School, 1250 Hahman Drive, Santa Rosa
Husband-and-wife artists Joshua Lawyer and MJ Lindo-Lawyer, along with friend and fellow artist Big Hepos, completed work on this Santa Rosa Avenue mural in December, 2018. Only five months later, the mural was vandalized. The faces it depicted, two of them brown, had been splashed with white paint. Thanks to a successful GoFundMe campaign, the artwork was restored. While the original had featured the faces in profile, the restored version shows the faces looking straight at the viewer. 505 and 514 Santa Rosa Ave., on a former used car lot at the corner with Sebastopol Avenue.
A struggle between light and darkness, the idea behind this mural was “a David and Goliath story arch,” according to Joshua Lawyer. It depicts two figures, face-to-face in a wrestling ring: an indigenous woman in jeans, sweatshirt and Converse shoes facing a looming Lucha Libre-masked wrestler, painted in darker, heavier tones. The mural sits on a Roseland site that has historically been a community gathering place, the meeting spot for protests and the location for the annual Cinco de Mayo fiesta. 883 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa
The South of A Street arts district — SOFA — covers a few blocks between Santa Rosa Avenue and South A Street, bordering Sebastopol and Sonoma avenues and neighboring Juilliard Park. A great destination for art appreciation, it is home to galleries as well as street art. A manga-inspired mural, created by Daniel Doughty and Nick Jensen, can be found in SOFA’s Art Alley.
Ever since local artist Mario Uribe was in art school, almost 60 years ago, he’s been moved by Pablo Picasso’s 1937 oil painting Guernica. One of Picasso’s best known works, it captures the horrors of war in a scene depicting the German aerial bombing of the Basque town of Guernica during the Spanish Civil War. Today, the painting is exhibited in the Museo Reina Sofía in Madrid. Thanks to Uribe, locals and visitors to Sonoma County can see a reproduction of it it in SOFA’s Art Alley. “The message in Guernica fits our world today and deserves to be replicated,” says Uribe, who projected the painting onto the wall at night and traced it. He then premixed the colors for the mural and several Artstart apprentices helped paint the various areas, while Uribe put in the finishing touches. 461 Sebastopol Ave., Santa Rosa
This bold and brightly colored mandala was created by muralist Julia Davis, aka Bud Snow, in the shallow bed of an abandoned fountain in Juilliard Park. The large, circular artwork features concentric rings of abstract, mythological-looking creatures Snow thinks of as contemporary versions of prehistoric, or perhaps, evolutionary beasts. “I’m interested in urban cave painting — discussing community, spirituality, friendship, joy, love — through simplified, abstracted but recognizable forms,” the Oakland artist said in a 2016 interview. Juilliard Park, Santa Rosa
The loss of a friend powered Bud Snow’s largest project to date: a vertical mural six stories high on the backside of Santa Rosa’s Roxy theater. Laura Nicole Kelly, a Sonoma County practitioner of Ayurvedic medicine, died from cancer in 2016. “She was my best friend. A lot of people were touched and healed by Laura,” said Snow, whose tribute to her friend takes the shape of a processional banner, featuring images that the late Kelly shared with Snow. Behind Roxy Stadium 14 on First Street, Santa Rosa.
Local artist Mario Uribe, along with his assistant Daniel Doughty, Petaluma artist Jennifer Mygatt Tatum and apprentices from the nonprofit Artstart, created this 208-square-foot mural on the back of the wall of the Palms Inn, a 104-unit motel for homeless veterans and the chronically homeless. Wanting to draw attention to homelessness in Sonoma County and the need for more housing, Uribe used pictures of the residents to create composites of smiling people. Together, they form a puzzle in the shape of a house and, at the residents’ request, Uribe also included emblems of the five military branches. 3345 Santa Rosa Ave., Santa Rosa
This mural, located in the Roseland neighborhood in southwest Santa Rosa, memorializes one of Sonoma County’s most traumatic events, the fatal shooting of 13-year-old Andy Lopez. The 48-foot-long mural depicts strong and colorful images of Mexican-American culture and day-to-day life, combined with the familiar, now-iconic image of Lopez, a Santa Rosa teenager who was shot by a Sonoma County sheriff’s deputy in 2013 as he walked through his Moorland Avenue neighborhood carrying an Airsoft BB gun the deputy reportedly mistook for a real weapon. 779 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa
Local graphic designer Blanca Molina and her partner created a vibrant mural outside of Sazón Peruvian Restaurant in 2022 that celebrates Peruvina culture with a beautiful landscape, including cactuses, alpacas and a Quechua woman. Molina designed the piece as part of a mile-long Mural Festival in Santa Rosa’s Roeland neighborhood, helmed by MJ Lindo-Lawyer and Joshua Lawyer and featuring works by various other local artists. 1129 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa
In 2023, artist Blanca Molina completed a colorful mural inside HenHouse Brewing’s Santa Rosa location, featuring two hens toasting glasses of beer adjacent to a wall that reads, “con cerveza, no hay tristeza,” which Molina said roughly translates to “with beer, there is no sadness.” Molina also created a series of fun beer can labels for HenHouse. 322 Bellevue Ave., Santa Rosa
Stretching across a wall at Tía María bakery in Santa Rosa’s Roseland neighborhood is one of Blanca Molina’s latest works, completed in spring of 2025. The mural features orange poppies and a bouquet of conchas sprouting from a traditional café de olla on a bright pink background, with overlaying text that reads, “May your cafecitos be strong and your chisme be juicy.” 44 Sebastopol Ave., Santa Rosa
Installed in early 2023 inside the Santa Rosa Junior College Foundation’s new building, this 7-by-17-foot acrylic mural is a lush floral landscape with symbolic imagery of community, equity, migration and environmental justice. The piece celebrates students, cultural diversity and the mission of education. 707 Elliott Ave., Santa Rosa
In August 2023, artist Maria de Los Angeles unveiled two large-scale, vibrantly detailed acrylic murals on the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts campus. “The Muses: A Celebration of a Blossoming Imagination” (19-by-19 feet) honors the performing arts, while “Four Seasons: A Celebration of Community and Environmental Beauty” (8-by-20 feet) evokes nature’s seasonal cycle and communal ties. Around 100 community participants contributed to the murals. 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa
On the grounds of the Anova Center for Education campus in Santa Rosa, The Velvet Bandit created her largest piece yet (40 feet by 8 feet), depicting poppies, daisies and positive word affirmations. The vibrant and inspiring mural was unveiled in July, 2025. Commissioned by Anova CEO Andrew Bailey, who was uplifted by her earlier “rogue art,” this bold public artwork now greets Anova school visitors. 212 Concourse Blvd., Santa Rosa
A once-white wall defaced by anti-immigrant graffiti was transformed into a vibrant mural celebrating Latino immigrants’ heritage and culture. Painted by local artists and students from Santa Rosa Junior College, the mural was conceived as an empowering response to vandalism that marred Cali Calmecac’s campus in late October, 2016. In vivid shades of purple, blue, green and other colors, the mural depicts scenes of creation, indigenous dancers, agriculture and students in the classroom. The main artists involved in the mural were Arturo Monroy, Mario Quijas, Emmanuel Morales, Jiovanny Soto and Everardo Flores. 9491 Starr Road, Windsor
This 15-by-60-foot mural, created by nearly 20 teens and organized by the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art, was funded in part by a National Endowment for the Arts grant aimed at supporting public art and artist residency collaborations. Acclaimed street artist Chor Boogie, a.k.a. Joaquin Lamar Hailey, of San Rafael, led the project. Boogie’s murals and artwork have appeared all over the world, including the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and the Smithsonian Institute. The colorful mural, featuring bright images of vineyards, Dia de Los Muertos icons, constellations named for animals and more, covers the wall of the Republic of Thrift shop in Boyes Hot Springs. 17496 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma
Commissioned by developers Stephen and Holly Sorkin in collaboration with the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art, Maria de Los Angeles completed two murals for Glen Ellen in 2021. The colorful murals, titled “Valley of Dreams” and “Galaxy of Hope,” are displayed on two walls of a mixed-use building that includes retail space, the Garden Court Cafe restaurant and an affordable housing project. 13647 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen
This 10-by-20-foot mural brightens up the campus at Brook Haven School in Sebastopol with colorful silhouettes of youth walking, biking, scootering and skateboarding. The mural is the result of a brainstorming session during a weekly Teens Go Green Club meeting. The club encourages students to get themselves to school using environmentally friendly modes of transportation. Sebastopol artist and Brook Haven alumna Dana Vallarino worked with club members to design the mural, even using them as models for the silhouettes. 7905 Valentine Ave., Sebastopol
A once-blank church wall was transformed into a charming mural evoking “a bit of wonderment for everyone.” Painted in October 2024 by Forestville muralist Amanda Lynn, the mural features local flora, insects and a bluebird. These elements were drawn directly from the church’s 4-acre site at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. The mural reflects Lynn’s joy in creating public art that brings delight to Sebastopol and its community. 500 Robinson Road, Sebastopol
Healdsburg’s Harmon Guest House (227 Healdsburg Ave.) has been inviting local artists to bring their talents to the resort since 2021 — with stunning results. The artworks range from sculptures and paintings to dance choreography and abstract nature videos. Here are some of the murals that have gone up at Harmon Guest House:
“Blue Harmon” by Jake Messing: Installed in May of 2022, Messing’s flock of bold blue herons graces the main stairwell at Harmon Guest House. The ascending herons symbolize “self-reliance, determination and good luck,” according to the artist.
“Mistress of Memory / Palimpsest Suites” by Alice Warnecke Sutro: Local artist and winemaker Alice Warnecke Sutro created a mixed-media art project for Harmon Guest House that included a large wall mural at its The Rooftop terrace, as well as etchings on glass shower doors. The mural and shower art featured figurative line drawings of people. The artwork was put on display in June, 2024.
“Mi Healdsburg / My Healdsburg” by Maria de Los Angeles: Unveiled Aug. 23, 2024, this temporary vinyl and glass mural, located at Harmon Guest House, featured a striking central female figure carrying local produce. The nearly 50-f00t-tall piece, designed by artist Maria de Los Angeles, was created via community workshops and funded by a $19,000 public art grant with the purpose of attracting and welcoming more people to the hotel and surrounding community.
With input from Cloverdale Latino youth, La Familia Sana — a nonprofit benefiting underserved people — partnered with Kimzin Creative to create a mural that represented various aspects of Latino culture. The Cloverdale mural reads “Saludos from Cloverdale” and includes lowriders, a quinceañera and a large cactus. It serves to include and uplift Cloverdale’s Hispanic community. 201 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Suite B, Cloverdale
Andrew Beale, Alexandria Bordas, Mary Callahan, Sofia Englund, Martin Espinoza, Ricardo Ibarra, Mayra Lopez, Derek Moore, J.D. Morris, Angela Ramirez, Eloísa Ruano González, Lorna Sheridan, Chris Smith and Mary Jo Winter contributed to this article, originally published in 2020 and since updated. For more information about local murals and street artists, visit Artstart, Creative Sonoma and Santa Rosa Urban Art Partnership.
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]]>Find a local beach for every summer recreation need.
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Summertime in Sonoma County calls for several beach trips to cool off in the water or sunbathe on the shore while sipping a cold drink.
Scroll on below to find the best beaches in Sonoma County for all your summer waterfront needs.
Nestled near Goat Rock south of Jenner, this narrow pebble beach offers great views of the ocean and the impressive Arch Rock. It’s the perfect beach sanctuary for those who want to get away from it all while listening to waves crashing against rocks. Highway 1 and Goat Rock Road, Jenner, parks.ca.gov
Sometimes it can be difficult to find a beach that’s both entertaining and safe for kids. Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach offers essential summer activities, has lifeguard patrols and provides life vests to loan for free. River’s Edge Kayak & Canoe Trips is located nearby, off Healdsburg Avenue, to help plan your family river excursions. 13839 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov
Enclosed by rocky headlands, this beach has a glorious pebble shore and a low tide that sea scavengers will enjoy. The vibrantly colored and ocean-polished small stones and seashells are great for collecting, and the tidepools are teeming with colorful marine life, such as starfish, mussels, hermit crabs, sea anemones and other interesting critters and crustaceans. Viking Strand and Highway 1, Bodega Bay, parks.ca.gov
This regional park beach is popular for a number of activities: picnicking, fishing, paddling, bird watching, kite flying and even horseback riding. But perhaps one of its most beloved aspects is that it’s dog-friendly (on a leash, that is). Take your playful pup on a trail through the grassy dunes or wade by the gentle seashore for a memorable time. 201 Doran Beach Road, Bodega Bay, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov
There are six public access trails in Sea Ranch leading to coastal beaches, such as Shell Beach and Stengel Beach (temporarily closed to replace a wooden stairway) with its seasonal waterfalls. But perhaps the best beach for couples here is Black Point, a long sandy cove accessed via a steep wooden staircase. The beach is typically secluded and enjoys beautiful ocean views. Access Black Point Beach via Sea Walk Drive, located off Coast Highway 1, The Sea Ranch, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov
Both North and South Salmon Creek beaches are popular spots for the local surfing community. On days when conditions are just right, experienced riders can enjoy some powerful swells while navigating gnarly rip currents. It’s also a good place for beginners when the waves are less intense. The sandy bottom of the ocean floor lessens the blows of wipeouts. 3095 Highway 1, Bodega Bay, parks.ca.gov
Floating down the river is what summer is all about. This Guerneville beach is perfect for those who want to kayak down the flowing currents or simply relax on the water in inner tubes with a cold drink in hand. Whether you want to paddleboard solo or canoe with a group of friends, there’s no shortage of summer fun here. 16215 First St., Guerneville, johnsonsbeach.com
While there are plenty of water sports to enjoy at Monte Rio Beach, its shore is superb for landlubbers. Volleyball courts and horseshoe pits are free. There are also barbecue areas to grill by the beach and a food concession stand with summer grub. 20488 Highway 116, Monte Rio, mrrpd.org
This beach is a great destination for animal lovers. Go birdwatching for gliding seabirds like gulls and sandpipers, catch a glimpse of breaching whales during migrating season and see a colony of Pacific Harbor seals with their pups throughout summer. No dogs are allowed and people should stay at least 300 feet away from the seals, especially during pupping season from March to August. Highway 1 and Goat Rock Road, Jenner, parks.ca.gov
While any beach along the Sonoma Coast can provide excellent sunsets views, this is the ideal spot to get comfortable and really soak them in. Whether you’re fishing from the rocky bluffs, strolling on the wide sandy beach or relaxing on the grassy knoll by the parking lot, there’s no bad spot here to watch a stunning, golden sunset over the ocean. Eureka Drive and Highway 1, Bodega Bay, parks.ca.gov
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]]>In Travel + Leisure's 30th annual World's Best Awards, two Wine Country destinations were ranked among readers' all-time favorites.
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Two Napa Valley destinations earned national recognition in Travel + Leisure’s 30th annual World’s Best Awards for 2025. The annual roundup, selected by readers, highlights the top-rated hotels, spas, cities, transportation and more around the globe. The awards reflect travelers’ favorite national and international spots and, this year, two Wine Country locations won three awards.
This luxury wellness retreat in Calistoga landed the No. 9 spot in the “Readers’ 15 Favorite Resorts in the Continental U.S.” category and also earned a spot in “Readers’ 100 Favorite Hotels in the World.”
The resort features 100 studio-style rooms and spacious suites with private patios, outdoor showers and sleek interiors inspired by the surrounding landscape. Guests are welcome to a 130-foot heated pool and the 20,000-square-foot wellness center with geothermal soaking pools, steam rooms, saunas and various spa treatments.
Solage, Auberge Resorts Collections has two places to dine: Solbar, which offers local, seasonal fare with indoor and al fresco dining areas; and Picobar, the poolside eatery serving contemporary Mexican cuisine.
A stay at Solage includes complimentary yoga and fitness classes, cruiser bikes, pickleball courts and curated outdoor experiences. The resort is a family- and pet-friendly space with thoughtful amenities, views of the Mayacamas and plenty of Wine Country charm.
Rates start at $765 per night. 755 Silverado Trail N., Calistoga, 866-942-7442, aubergeresorts.com/solage
The Napa Valley Wine Train rolled in at No. 3 in the “Readers’ 5 Favorite Trains in the World” category.
This Wine Country leisure transit staple delivers an elegant regional journey that blends gourmet dining, vineyard views and vintage luxury aboard restored 1915 Pullman railcars.
Guests are welcomed aboard then treated to multicourse meals prepared by executive chef Rodrigo Cuadra, with optional curated wine parings from Napa Valley’s top wineries. The six-hour Legacy Experience includes three winery stops with onboard narration about the region’s history. Other trips last up to three hours and include a variety of immersive, seasonal experiences.
A trip on the Napa Valley Wine Train starts at $202, depending on the experience and date selected. 1275 McKinstry St., Napa, 707-253-2111, winetrain.com
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]]>From glamping getaways to rustic farm stays, six properties from Sonoma, Marin and Mendocino counties were recognized this year.
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Each year, campsite booking platform Hipcamp honors standout camping destinations across the country. In the recent 2025 Hipcamp Awards, the North Bay made a strong presence. From glamping getaways to rustic farm stays, six properties from Sonoma, Marin and Mendocino counties were recognized this year.
A repeat winner in this year’s awards, Bodega’s Salmon Creek Ranch earned two titles: Best Treehouse and Best Hipcamp in California. Set on a 400-acre working ranch just outside Bodega Bay, the property offers a secluded tree house with sweeping forest views, a cozy wood stove and a private deck. Guests can explore redwood groves, visit livestock and enjoy farm-fresh produce during their stay.
The private preserve has an on-site farm store, featuring products such as grass-fed beef sausages and organic duck eggs. There’s also a private picnic area with a firepit and Weber barbeque grill. A stay at Salmon Creek Ranch starts at about $120 per night and goes up to $399 for the unique Eagle’s Nest Treehouse Farmstay — a premium glamping spot. 1400 Bay Hill Road, Bodega, 707-775-9604, salmoncreekranch.com
Also honored in the Best in Every U.S. State category, Finley Camp sits right along Finley Creek in west Sonoma County, just 20 minutes inland from Bodega Bay. The camp features 13 sites with firepits and picnic areas, as well as access to nearby hiking trails. It’s a peaceful base great for groups looking to explore Sonoma County’s coastal charm.
The camp is located on an active cattle ranch, with grass-fed beef available for purchase. The farm also offers orchard tours where guests can pick apples, pears or blueberries (when in season). A stay at Finley Camp starts at around $85–$95 per night. The exact address will be provided after booking to respect the host’s privacy, according to Hipcamp. hipcamp.com
Near the remote Mendocino coast, The Deck and Cozy Container offers a pared-down, off-grid experience with forest views and ocean air. The converted shipping container, complete with a 2,000-square-foot redwood deck, was named one of Hipcamp’s best in the state this year. Amenities include showers, potable water and cooking equipment, including a kitchenette with a fridge. It’s a low-key escape designed for quiet mornings, coastal hikes and nights under the stars.
A night with four guests at The Deck and Cozy Container is $143. The exact address will be provided after booking to respect the host’s privacy, according to Hipcamp. hipcamp.com
Recognized as one of the Best Farmstays in the country, this Marin County site sits on a serene ranch near the Estero de San Antonio waterway. Guests can camp in furnished bell tents or pitch their own, with access to farm animals, peaceful pastures and kayak trips down the river. There are six campsites as well as a farm store.
A stay at Estero San Antonio Wonderland ranges from $67–$94 per night. Learn more about the campsites from host True Grass Farms. The exact address will be provided after booking to respect the host’s privacy, according to Hipcamp. hipcamp.com
This camping destination earned a nod in Hipcamp’s Best Glamping Sites category. Located in the hills outside Mendocino, Heartwood blends nature with thoughtful design. The site features three tent/RV sites and eight cabins — each with expansive forest views. Amenities include heated beds, luxe linens, a bath house with redwood tree shower and an outdoor camp kitchen, plus cooking equipment. Trails, rivers and the charming coastal town of Mendocino are all within reach. A night at Heartwood Mendocino goes from $76–$190. 40500 Little Lake Road, Mendocino, heartwoodmendocino.com
One of the newest additions to Hipcamp’s roster, Waterfall Camp in Mendocino earned a spot in the Newcomers category for its quiet, back-to-nature charm. Hidden deep in the redwoods and accessible only by a short trail, the camp offers walk-in tent sites beside a gentle creek and a communal fire circle for evening gathering. The namesake waterfall is just steps away, offering a cool, shaded retreat after a day of hiking. With no cell service or crowds, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, listen to the trees and fully unplug.
“Our goal is to make you feel right at home,” hosts Shay and Liz state on the booking site. A night’s stay at Waterfall camp starts at $90. The exact address will be provided after booking to respect the host’s privacy, according to Hipcamp. hipcamp.com
Want to camp right on the beach? Check here for beachfront camping in Sonoma, Mendocino and Marin. Check here for more favorite camping spots in Sonoma County.
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]]>The Wall Street Journal spotlight just confirms what Sonoma County already knows: Guerneville still has it.
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Guerneville is no stranger to summer love, but this summer, the town earned national attention. On July 2, the Wall Street Journal featured Guerneville in a guide to top day trips from San Francisco, highlighting Johnson’s Beach and other laid-back attractions two hours north of the city.
Tucked beneath the redwoods and alongside the Russian River, Guerneville was praised for its natural beauty, wine tastings, LGBTQ+ culture and breezy vacation energy.
The article spotlighted Johnson’s Beach as the “riverside party,” where beachgoers sunbathe and soak in the summer scene.
Johnson’s Beach has lured generations of summer visitors since the 1920s with its canoe rentals, cute cabins and an old-school snack bar. The beach’s relaxing environment makes it a go-to destination for Northern California families, day-trippers and anyone chasing a classic Sonoma County summer. 16215 First St., 707-869-2022, johnsonsbeach.com
The shoutout didn’t go unnoticed. The team at Johnson’s Beach shared their excitement in an Instagram post July 5, thanking travel writer Freda Moon for including the beach in her Wall Street Journal article.
This is not the first time the beach has made national headlines. In 2024, Travel + Leisure named Johnson’s California’s “coolest” beach, noting its retro summer camp vibes and family-friendly feel.
In addition to the beach, the Wall Street Journal called out several other destinations in Guerneville and the Russian River area. Here are the standouts:
The country’s first LGBTQ+ cause-based winery is a welcoming locale to go wine tasting on the weekend or to host private events such as staff celebrations or business development socials. “I think it’s massive for the community that we were mentioned,” said Matt Grove, co-founder of Equality Vines. “Because of all the construction in the community, we hope we get more foot traffic. So the culmination of being featured in this article is momentous for the community.” 16215 Main St., 877-379-4637, equalityvines.com
The powerful and captivating redwood grove is an attraction anyone can enjoy when looking to get away from crowds and the city featuring peaceful trails, a visitor center, an outdoor amphitheater, and picnic areas. 17000 Armstrong Woods Road, 707-869-2015, parks.ca.gov
The historic bubbly tasting house offers daily public tours and tastings. Chase the sweet California Champagne at the deli, Korbel Delicatessen and Market, with any market salad. 13250 River Road, 707-824-7000, korbel.com
The town’s iconic nightlife also got a mention, including this longtime gay saloon. The atmosphere inside the rustic interior is always flannel-friendly and judgment-free. “I’m just flattered that the Wall Street Journal mentioned us,” said co-owner Robert Frederick. 16220 Main St., 707-869-0206, queersteer.com
By day, Rio Nido Roadhouse is buzzing with families enjoying the snack bar that offers kid-friendly bites while parents sip craft beers and cocktail specials outdoors. By night, it transforms into a lively redwood-stage venue playing country music, reggae, rock and more. 14540 Canyon 2 Road, Rio Nido, 707-869-0821, rionidoroadhouse
This retro diner offers breakfast and lunch for anyone looking to relax and refuel before heading down to the river. Pat’s is known for its doughnuts and Korean fried chicken sandwiches. 16236 Main St., 707-604-4007, patsinternational.com
The dramatic Sonoma coastline is known for its harbor seal pups in late spring to mid summer and misty ocean views. A trip to the coast is a great way to get away from the inland heat during the summer. 3095 Highway 1, 707-875-3483, Bodega Bay, parks.ca.gov
With shout-outs from both Travel + Leisure and now the Wall Street Journal, Johnson’s Beach — and Guerneville as a whole — continues to find national attention. The spotlight just confirms what Sonoma County already knows: Guerneville still has it.
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]]>Savor fresh fruit right from the garden at roadside stands or from u-pick farms in Sonoma County.
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Ruby-red strawberry juice drips down your chin and your hands are sticky and stained purple with blackberries. It’s the joy of summer, when fresh fruit not only flourishes but can be savored right from the garden at roadside stands or from u-pick farms. Then, as the beloved Gravenstein ripens in late July, you can pick apples in and around Sebastopol. Here are a few favorite spots for procuring berries, apples and other produce.
Boysenberries, Blackberries and Raspberries: This organic farm, owned and operated by Shepherd Bliss, has been in business for over 30 years. The farm welcomes berry pickers by appointment only and also has an on-site farm stand. Call 707-829-8185 to make an appointment. The best time for berry picking is in the morning; that’s when the berries taste the best, says farmer Shepherd. Youth over 15 are welcome. 1543 Cunningham Road, Sebastopol, 707-829-8185
Blackberries, Raspberries, Plums, Pluots, Apples: This 14-acre solar-powered organic farm and orchard in Sebastopol is operated in accordance with Afro Indigenous permaculture principles. It welcomes berry and fruit pickers by appointment on select days in July and August (find upcoming u-pick dates on the farm’s website). Plums, pluots, blackberries, raspberries and a variety of apples are available in the summer. 3175 Sullivan Road, Sebastopol, 707-829-0617, earthseedfarm.org
Raspberries: This family-friendly, certified organic red raspberry u-pick farm welcomes berry pickers on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from June through September. Make reservations online and check the farm’s Facebook page for the latest info. There is plenty of space for a post berry picking picnic by the ponds. Raspberries are $11.99 per pound. 4200 Canfield Road, Sebastopol, theboringfarm.com
Produce, Herbs and Flowers: Formerly known as Green Valley Community Farm, this Sebastopol farm offers a special Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) membership program that allows members to pick flowers, herbs and seasonal crops from June through Thanksgiving. The farm grows over 20 varieties of edible and cut flowers, over 20 varieties of perennial and annual herbs, and a vast assortment of produce, from strawberries and cherry tomatoes to pumpkins and sugar snap peas. Due to its popularity, the farm’s 2025 CSA program is currently full, and a waitlist is available for when spots open up. 1720 Cooper Road, Sebastopol, westcountycommunityfarm.com
Strawberries: Easier than U-pick, but just as fresh: Lao Saetern’s wood shack brims with baskets of super-sweet, glistening, gorgeous strawberries he personally farms. Expect long lines and, sometimes, rationing of the precious nibbles to one basket per person. 5556 Sebastopol Ave., Sebastopol, just west of Duer Road, 916-860-2945
Strawberries: Another popular stop for strawberries, this farm stand on Arnold Drive at W. Watmaugh Road, just south of the town of Sonoma, sells just-picked berries that are ripe all the way through and still warm from the sun. The stand occasionally sells produce other than strawberries, like apricots, cherries, peaches and nectarines. Check their Facebook page for hours of operation. 1120 Watmaugh Road, Sonoma, 916-807-1538
Blueberries: This Sebastopol farm is open for u-pick blueberries in June — their season lasts only seven weekends so make sure to contact the farm beforehand as the growing season varies each year, or sign up for the farm’s newsletter for updates on blueberry picking. After harvesting berries, guests can treat themselves to blueberry ice cream made right on the farm. Reservations, made online, are required. 2950 Canfield Road, Sebastopol, 707-829-7999, duckworthfarmblueberries.com
Golden Delicious and Roman Beauties: This family-run farm in Sebastopol grows apples and pears and makes apple juice. U-pick of Golden Delicious and Roman Beauties is offered in September and October and Gravensteins are available for purchase when in season (from late July). Visit website or Facebook page for updates. 13128 Occidental Road, Sebastopol, 707-823-0538, appleadayranch.com
Apples: Mike and Sally Gale bought this Petaluma ranch in 1993 and have since planted 400 apple trees. They welcome apple pickers on Sundays starting in September and stay open for picking as long as there are apples. Honey, lavender and baked goods will be available to purchase. $10 entry fee per family; apples are $2 per pound. 5105 Chileno Valley Road, Petaluma, 707-765-6664, mikeandsallygalebeefranch.com
Berries, Flowers and Cherry Tomatoes: Santa Rosa Junior College’s student-run farm in west county will hold u-picks on select Fridays in July and August. They will also be selling cut flowers, beef and other goods like olive oil and berry preserves. Free parking and admission. See website and Instagram for details and updates. 7450 Steve Olson Lane, Forestville, 707-535-3702, shonefarm.santarosa.edu
Peaches: The farm has 16 varieties of peaches (both white and yellow) to choose from while walking through the 10-acre orchard. Upon arriving, guests will receive picking baskets that hold up to 10 pounds of fruit and directions to the ripest peaches. U-pick season is from the first of July through the end of August. Open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. 2600 Laguna Road, Santa Rosa, 707-322-5806, lagunagoldfruit.com
Kaila Bohler, Charlie Wiltsee and Maci Martell contributed to this article.
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]]>Beat the heat with an overnight stay or day pass at one of these Wine Country hotel pools.
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Wine Country is home to a long list of swanky hotels and resorts. More than simply places to rest your head, many of these properties also have sparkling pools that offer the perfect place to beat the heat and relax. Book a weekend away or a staycation — some of these pools can also be accessed with a day pass.
Sit back and relax or jump right in. The main pool averages 88 degrees. Day passes are available Monday through Friday and can be booked through the resort or ResortPass.
The geothermal mineral pools at the Willow Stream Spa flow from more than 1,000 feet below the surface. The spa pools and hot tub are open year-round for guests 18 years and older. There is a $69 fee for hotel guests to use the spa facilities. Non-resort guests pay $99–$199. The access fee may be waived when booking a spa treatment, depending on the service selected, time and availability. 100 Boyes Blvd., Sonoma, 707-938-9000, fairmont.com/sonoma
Enjoy the spirit of summer at the main pool and hot tub. If you are not staying at the hotel, you can purchase a day pass to the pool through ResortPass. 1325 Broadway at Leveroni and Napa Roads, Sonoma, 707-935-6600, lodgeatsonoma.com
Surrounded by trees and blooming gardens, this midcentury modern pool offers a quiet spot to soak up some vitamin D or make a splash. Day spa guests, who have booked a 50-minute spa treatment at The Spa at MacArthur, are welcome to use the pool. 29 E. MacArthur St., Sonoma, 707-938-2929, macarthurplace.com
The serene setting along Calabazas Creek ensures a relaxing day in the pool or hot tub. Bring that book you’ve been meaning to read for the longest time. 13540 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen, 707-935-0237, thegaigehouse.com
This pool (heated year-round) and hot tub are open 24/7. It is only accessible to hotel guests. 5131 Warm Springs Road, Glen Ellen, 707-996-5131, oleahotel.com
In addition to the main pool and hot tub, this resort also features an adults-only warming pool. Cabana rentals are available for overnight guests only, with rates from $349 for up to two people. Spa guests who book a massage can add on pool access Monday through Thursday for $50. 10400 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, 707-833-1293, kenwoodinn.com
After a $20 million renovation in 2021, the Flamingo Resort boasts a pool area that’s more popular than ever. Hotel guests receive a wristband at check-in for pool access, and non-hotel guests can purchase day passes for the pool on ResortPass. Day guests are restricted to adults 21 and over; children are only permitted as hotel guests. Pool day passes start at $60. 2777 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-545-8530, flamingoresort.com
Formerly Vintners Resort & Spa, Vinarosa has recently unveiled a new outdoor pool area featuring plush daybeds and private cabanas. The spa also boasts an indoor caldarium with a heated soaking pool for guests 18 years and older. If you’re not staying at the hotel, but have an appointment at the spa, you get access to the pool and all spa amenities. Day passes to the pool, as well as daybeds and cabanas, are available on ResortPass. 4350 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa, 707-575-7350, vinarosaresort.com
Named among the best hotels in the country last year, this family-run inn has a lovely pool that’s heated from April to October, depending on the weather. The hot tub is toasty year-round. Only accessible to hotel guests. 7871 River Road, Forestville, 707-887-3300, farmhouseinn.com
A day by the pool and hot tub at The Stavrand comes with views of the property’s awe-inspiring redwoods. 13555 Highway 116, Guerneville, 707-869-9093, thestavrand.com
This saline pool is a popular spot to unwind with a good book or glass of wine. If the pool is not too crowded, day spa guests are permitted to use the pool and hot tub for a maximum of two hours before or after their spa treatment. 14711 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville, 707-869-2721, boonhotels.com
Located in the center of the property, the saltwater pool is flanked by citrus groves and the estate garden. Food and beverage service is available poolside. 1001 Westside Road, Healdsburg, 707-395-6700, themadronahotel.com
Recently honored in the Forbes Travel Guide with its top five-star luxury rating, this resort boasts both a family pool and a zero-edge adult pool overlooking the surrounding vineyards. As long as space allows, spa-only guests that book a treatment 60 minutes or longer receive access to the pool. 100 Montage Way, Healdsburg, 707-979-9000, montagehotels.com/healdsburg
This solar-heated pool’s creekside location has a peaceful vibe and plenty of shade thanks to surrounding trees. Only accessible to hotel guests. 227 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-922-5449, harmonguesthouse.com
Surrounded by a garden with roses, hydrangea, olive and fig trees, it’s easy to lose a day relaxing by the 60-foot pool and bubbling hot tub. Only accessible to hotel guests. 25 Matheson St., Healdsburg, 707-431-2800, hotelhealdsburg.com
Located steps away from the lobby, this pool is flanked by comfy loungers. Only accessible to hotel guests. 219 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-431-2202, h2hotel.com
The pool and neighboring bocce court are located in the center of the hotel property. Outside seating, fire pits and gas barbecue grills make the nearby patio area a favorite spot to enjoy the end of the day. Only accessible to hotel guests. 110 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, 707-433-4000, hoteltrio.com
Live DJ entertainment by the pool is available daily along with food and drinks served poolside, which can be enjoyed on a plush daybed (starting at $150) or inside a private cabana (starting at $250). Pool day passes, which include one beverage with purchase, are $55 and are available at the resort’s gift and lobby shops. Must be a guest at the hotel or spa, have a pool day pass, or have daybed/cabana reservations to access the pool. Pool guests must be 21 or older. 288 Golf Course Drive, Rohnert Park, 707-588-7100, gratonresortcasino.com
Although you can’t stay overnight at this winery, its 3,600-square-foot pool still deserves a spot on this list. Swimmers and sunbathers can dry off and play bocce ball, dine at the Pool Café or Rustic restaurant and head inside the winery to visit the tasting room or check out Coppola’s collection of movie memorabilia. Cabine reservations are required. 300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville, 707-857-1471, thefamilycoppola.com
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]]>Discover the hidden treasures of Bodega Bay for a perfect day on the Sonoma Coast.
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Discover the hidden treasures of Bodega Bay. From stunning beaches to delicious seafood, this coastal destination has something for everyone.
Find more gems in the charming town of Bodega Bay here.
While heading to the coast, make a pit stop in Valley Ford for coffee (or a tasty breakfast burrito) at the Estero Cafe. And for the road, grab a brown paper bag of the homemade teriyaki beef jerky next door at the Valley Ford Market — it’s kind of famous in these parts.
Approaching Bodega Bay from the south on Highway 1, turn right on Bodega Highway to visit the charming town of Bodega, where you can see the Saint Teresa of Avila Church and the Potter Schoolhouse (now a private residence) — both featured in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1963 horror film “The Birds.” And don’t miss screenings of “The Birds” in October during the annual Hitchcock Film Festival at the Bodega Bay Grange Hall.
Coming out of a steep ravine as you roll into Bodega Bay, turn left on Doran Beach Road and wind down to the 2-mile spit that stretches into Doran Beach at Doran Regional Park ($8 fee). It’s a great place to picnic, explore the beach, and watch surfers and fishing boats come and go through the harbor.
Back on Highway 1, as you enter town, Sonoma Coast Vineyards (limited production Pinot and Chardonnay) is on the left. On a sunny day, the back patio is a cheese-plate picnic perch for watching snowy egrets that like to roost in trees along the eastern edge of the bay.
Less than a half-mile down on the left is the Tides Wharf and Restaurant, where Tippi Hedren, in a long fur coat no less, rented a skiff in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1963 horror film “The Birds.” It’s a tourist trap today, but still a fun spot from which to watch workers unload fresh salmon filets at the wharf. And if you barely poke your head in the front door, you can see a massive set of shark jaws on the wall and a photo showing the more than 17-foot great white shark caught near Bodega Bay in 1984.
Back on the main drag, blow past the saltwater taffy shops and windsock peddlers, and turn left on Eastshore Road where Terrapin Creek is tucked away in a row of shops like a secret culinary hideaway. Owners Andrew Truong and Liya Lin serve up a briny seasonal menu of scallops, Marin miyagi oysters, Monterey sardines, charred octopus salad and pan-roasted sea bass, all freshly sourced from the sea.
Down the way, past abandoned boats with names like Jezebel and Deliverance, Eastshore Road dead-ends at Porto Bodega Marina where Gourmet Au Bay and Ginochio’s Kitchen sit side-by-side, topped with low-slung roofs like twin trailer-park mobile homes or converted storage containers. Don’t be afraid, Gourmet Au Bay boasts an eclectic wine cellar and owner Brian Roth invented (and trademarked) “wine surfing” — so when you order a flight, it arrives on a mini surfboard. And Ginochio’s breakfast hash is loaded with 14-hour slow-cooked Texas brisket.
From Eastshore, take Bay Flat Road west as it turns into Westshore Road and you’ll smell the steaming pots in front of Spud Point Crab Company across from Spud Point Marina. Carol and Tony Anello’s fish shack is home to a renowned clam chowder that has won the annual Chowder Day in Bodega Bay contest more than any other competitor.
Further down the road on the right, the UC Davis Bodega Marine Laboratory offers public tours on Fridays. The first story docent Roger Patton likes to tell is how PG&E once tried to build a nuclear plant in the 1960s at nearby Bodega Head. After that, you get to check out the aquariums, walk outside and see Horseshoe Cove, and touch purple urchins in model tide pools.
At the end of Westshore Road is the climb to Bodega Head, a windblown, dead-end vista overlooking the majestic, white-capped Pacific. A popular spot for tourists, it’s a great excuse for a hike and one of the best whale watching vistas along the coast. In March and April, docents from Stewards of the Redwoods are stationed along the cliffs to help spot mothers and their young calves migrating from Mexico back to Alaska.
Pinnacle Gulch Trail: This is one of the best hikes to a secluded beach in all of Sonoma County and totally unknown to most visitors. Just before rolling into Bodega Bay, turn left on South Harbor Way, then make a quick left on Heron Drive. Cruise through the Bodega Harbour subdivision, past “Golf Cart Crossing” signs. Turn left on Mockingbird Lane and a few hundred feet on your left is the Pinnacle Gulch parking lot. From there, hike about a mile down a ravine to a beautiful beach sanctuary. Check tide charts before you go. At low tide, hike south down the beach to pick up Shorttail Gulch trail and make it a 2-mile loop back to your car.
Salmon Creek Beach: One of the best places to watch surfers around Bodega Bay is at Salmon Creek State Beach, along Highway 1 north of town. The parking lot at the end of Bean Avenue (on your right off Highway 1) often fills up on busy days. About a quarter mile up the road, you can park in another lot along the bluffs overlooking the ocean, and take the stairs down to the beach and lagoon where tiny Salmon Creek trickles into the Pacific.
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]]>Whether you prefer to camp under a canopy of redwoods or near waves crashing on a beach, you're sure to find your ideal campground in Sonoma County.
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Whether you prefer to camp under a canopy of redwoods or near waves crashing on a beach, you’re sure to find your ideal campground in Sonoma County.
Nestled in a large, lush valley and flanked by meadows and streams sits a loop of family campsites in Sugarloaf’s pristine park. The 50 total camping spaces include 47 family campsites, two wheelchair accessible campsites and one group campsite with room for up to 50 people (perfect for a relaxing business retreat).
Sugarloaf Ridge’s campground has something for everyone, such as horseback riding and nature exploration through oak woodlands. Campers can also enjoy stargazing at the park’s Robert Ferguson Observatory each month on a Saturday night around the new moon.
Campsite amenities at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park include picnic tables, fire rings, food storage boxes, a campfire area, public restrooms (or rent a personal porta-potty for $20glamping per night) and shower facilities. There are also luxury tents complete with furnishings available for those who want to give glamping a go. Regular campsites are $35 per night, premium sites are $45 per night, and six-person luxury glamping tents are $125 per night (mandatory set-up/cleaning fee for luxury tents tents are $25 per tent). To reserve a campsite, call 800-444-7275 or visit reservecalifornia.com. 2605 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood, 707-833-5712, sugarloafpark.org
One of the most family friendly parks in the county, Spring Lake’s campground is adjacent to numerous recreational activities, including swimming in the lagoon, boating and paddling in the lake, and hiking/biking/equestrian trails connecting to Howarth Park and Trione-Annadel State Park.
Spring Lake’s oak-shrouded campground has 31 sites, which can accommodate tents, trailers and RVs, and three cozy wedge cabins that can house up to either four or six people. The quaint, modern cabins include porches, a picnic table, a charcoal grill, a food locker and sleeping platforms with bare mattresses. Cabins are $79-$99 per night, depending on date and season, plus a non-refundable reservation fee of $9.50.
Amenities for the regular campsites at Spring Lake include potable water, showers, restrooms with electrical outlets and a dump station. Campsites are around $45 per night and reservations are required. To reserve a site, call 707-565-2267 or visit sonomacountycamping.org. 393 Violetti Road, Santa Rosa, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov
Hood Mountain’s 1,750-acre wilderness preserve has a limited amount of hike-in, environmental campsites for those seeking peace and seclusion among meadows and mixed-conifer forests. The four sites at the Azalea Creek campground have been closed due to impacts from the 2020 Glass Fire.
There are two campsites currently available at the park’s Merganser Pond. Campsites are $22 a night and offer picnic tables, food lockers and pit toilets, but no potable water or electricity. Campers are permitted to stay up to 10 nights in a row. Camp stoves are permitted for cooking, but campfires are not allowed.
To reach the Merganser Pond campsites at Hood Mountain Regional Park, start from the Pythian Road entrance on the southwestern end of the park and hike northeast from the Pythian Road Trailhead for about two miles to the pond and campground. Reserve a site by calling 707-565-2267 or online at sonomacountycamping.org. 1450 Pythian Road, Santa Rosa, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov
Family operated and open year-round since 1965, Casini Ranch is located in the picturesque Russian River Valley and has a large assortment of tent and RV campsites along with quaint, rustic cabins and luxurious cottage rentals. Whether you want riverfront views or solitude among the redwoods, the campsites can accommodate groups of several sizes and are in close proximity to a number of relaxing and recreational activities.
Activities and amenities at Casini Ranch campground include hayrides, playgrounds, dog parks, seasonal beach bonfires, horseshoe pits, a baseball field, volleyball and basketball courts, fishing and swimming in the river, movie nights and ice cream socials. There are also restrooms, shower facilities and a general store on site for all your camping needs. Rates vary on dates and site types (see rate details here). Reserve online at casiniranch.com/reservations or by phone. 22855 Moscow Road, Duncans Mills, 800-451-8400, casiniranch.com
With the most campsites available year-round in the county, Doran Park’s nearly 130 sites are grouped into five areas, encircled by Bodega’s bay and harbor. The Cove, Gull, Shell, Jetty and Miwok campgrounds include seven total ADA-accessible sites and all offer potable water, electrical outlets, restrooms with coin-operated showers, a dump station ($10 fee) and a nearby fish cleaning station.
There are plenty of recreational opportunities to dive into at the scenic Doran campground, from flying kites on grassy dunes to fishing and paddling in the bay to exploring sea life along the rock jetty. Campsites are around $45 per night. Sites can be reserved up to six months in advance by calling 707-565-2267 or online at sonomacountycamping.org. 201 Doran Beach Road, Bodega Bay, 707-875-3540, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov
This sandy beach campground at the Sonoma Coast State Park offers gorgeous ocean and sunset views. There are plenty of fun outdoor activities here, including whale and bird watching, hang gliding and hiking the Kortum Trail to other nearby beaches. Rates are $35 a night and the 27 campsites include nearby restrooms, picnic tables, food lockers and a fire ring. Registered campers may use the token-operated hot showers at Bodega Dunes Campground (5 miles south). Reservations can be made six months in advance by calling ReserveCalifornia at 800-444-7275.
Maximum trailer length for trailer and RV camping at Wright’s Beach Campground is 31 inches and hook-ups are not available. Wright’s Beach does not offer group camping. There are no potable water filling areas at Wright’s Beach; fill up water tanks at Bodega Dunes. 7095 Highway 1, Bodega Bay, 707-875-3483, parks.ca.gov
Stunning ocean views, waves crashing on sandstone cliffs and 20 miles of hiking trails winding through forested hills and rugged coastline — Salt Point’s campgrounds offer memorable activities for both sea lovers and intrepid hikers. The Woodside Campground has 79 campsites and the oceanside Gerstle Cove Campground offers 30 family campsites near several trailheads to the rest of the park and Gerstle Cove Marine Reserve.
The campsites at Salt Point State Park are equipped with fire rings, picnic tables and a food locker, and all sites are in close proximity to potable water faucets and restrooms, but there are no showers. Regular campsites allow up to eight people per site and there is one group campsite near Warren Creek that can accommodate up to 40 people. Additionally, there are 10 hike/bike campsites behind the ranger station for campers on foot or bicycles. The hike/bike sites are $10 a night, Gerstle Cove and Woodside campsites are $35 a night and the group campsite is $200. Call 800-444-7275 to reserve a site. 25050 Highway 1, Jenner, 707-847-3221, parks.ca.gov
The inland campground at Stillwater Cove is huddled among ferns, redwoods and rhododendrons. It offers easy access to the charming crescent beach, making it a popular spot for fishing and kayaking trips. The 23 campsites include three first come, first served sites, two ADA-accessible sites and one hiker/bicycle site. The campground offers potable water (though a boil water notice is in place), restrooms with coin-operated showers, electrical outlets, a trailer dump station and a fish cleaning station. Reservations are required. To reserve a site, call 707-847-3221 or visit reserve.sonomacountycamping.org. 25050 Highway 1, Jenner, 707-847-3245, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov
Bordered by the Gualala River and featuring both an expansive beach and redwood forest, Gualala Point’s rarely crowded campground is great for hikers and whale-watchers alike. There are about 20 campsites available for tents, trailers and RVs, six of which are walk-in sites located in a thick grove of bay trees. The campground features flush toilets, electrical outlets, a coin-operated shower ($2 for 5 minutes) and a dump station. Campsites are $41 per night. Reserve online at SonomaCountyCamping.org or by calling 707-565-2267. 42401 Coast Highway 1, Gualala, 707-785-2377, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov
Situated on a hillside near Warm Springs Creek west of Cloverdale, Liberty Glen Campground offers scenic views of Lake Sonoma, a popular place to fish, boat, picnic and hike. The campground has 96 campsites, including two group sites and one group equestrian site, each of which can accommodate up to 75 people.
Liberty Glen campsites feature restrooms, showers, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings and lanterns posts. Liberty Glen has a fish hatchery, a disc golf course and an amphitheater for campers to enjoy summer campfire programs. The campground is also close by the Sonoma County Archery Range. Regular campsites are $25 per night, group campsites are $100 per night and the group equestrian site is $50 per night. Reserve a site online or by phone. Liberty Glen Road, Geyserville, 707-431-4533, spn.usace.army.mil
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