Wet start to the new year

It's been a stormy couple of weeks and many of your regional parks (like Steelhead Beach, above) were temporarily closed or are still impacted as we clear fallen trees or wait for waters to recede. Before heading to a park, please check SonomaCountyParks.org, where closures are listed on the homepage. Click here to see storm photos from Doran Beach, Stillwater Cove, Tolay Lake and other parks.

After this ample soaking, we recommend seeking out the paved trails, like the Valley of the Moon Trail at Sonoma Valley Regional Park (see below). Staying off dirt trails when they're wet helps to minimize trail damage and erosion – and saves you from cleaning muddy boots.

Storm photos

Check a park's status

Newts on the move

The arrival of rain means newts, like the red-bellied newts and rough-skinned newts in this video, are active in many of your parks. If you see a newt on the trail, don’t pick it up. Newts have a powerful neurotoxin in their skin, but can also absorb chemicals from YOUR hands such as bug spray, sunblock and lotion – not good for them. Please give them space and watch your step out on the trail.

Watch the video

Trail of the Month: Valley of the Moon Trail

The 1.2-mile (one way) Valley of the Moon Trail at Sonoma Valley Regional Park is a great choice for a brisk winter hike. The flat, paved trail is ADA-accessible and can be traversed in all types of weather. This time of year, many sections of the trail are in full sun making it a great way to warm up on a chilly day while still enjoying a walk through oak woodlands. There are benches and picnic tables along the way and a seasonal creek. Dogs on leash OK.

Watch the video

Park info and map

Camping season is just around the corner

It's not too early to make your summer camping plans. The most popular campgrounds often fill up on summer weekends, so the earlier you can book a campsite, the more options you'll have. Read our blog for more tips on reserving a campsite. Remember, reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance, and parks members get a free night of camping every year.

Book a campsite

Have you ever seen beavers in the wild?

If you didn’t know beavers live here in Sonoma County, you're not alone. Many are surprised to learn about the comeback of these aquatic rodents – the largest rodents in North America. We've been lucky to observe this pair hard at work in one of your Sonoma Valley regional parks, and we're especially pleased with the HD quality of this video. Be sure to watch to the end for a glimpse of those teeth!

Watch the video

What we're working on in the new year

In 2023, we look forward to deepening our work related to Sonoma County's strategic priorities, such as climate resilience and equity. We'll advance major initiatives to improve forest health and reduce wildfire risk, invest in existing parks and open new trails and parks. We'll continue diversifying program offerings, engaging with communities and strengthening partnerships with local organizations and city parks partners, leveraging the Parks for All/Measure M funding approved by area voters in 2018. For more on recent accomplishments, read the new Parks For All Annual Report.

Read the Annual Report

Featured events

Cultivating Queer and

Trans Community

Enjoy Doran Regional Park while building community and learning about nature on Saturday, Jan. 28, 1-3 p.m. This space is provided for intergenerational LGBTQ2IA+ people to come together, build relationships of support and encouragement, with a focus on physical, emotional and mental wellness. Sign up.

Senior Saunters

Enjoy leisurely walks with friendly, older adults on the first Tuesday of each month. On Tuesday, Jan. 24, 9-10:30 a.m., enjoy a gentle 2-mile saunter along the Russian River's riparian corridor at Cloverdale River Park. All abilities welcome! This event is drop-in; no registration required. More info.

World Wetlands Day Hike

On Saturday, Feb. 4, 4-6 p.m., celebrate World Wetlands day at the largest freshwater wetlands complex on the northern California coast. Experience the magic of the Laguna de Santa Rosa at dusk while learning about wetlands, watersheds and wildlife. All ages welcome on this guided, 2-mile hike. Sign up.

See full calendar