Sonoma State Park
The Sonoma area features two of California's most interesting parks: Sonoma Historic Park and Jack London State Historic Park. The former stands in the heart of Sonoma, and was originally built around six historic buildings, many dating back to the town's founding. Jack London State Historic Park is named for the famous author (Call of the Wild) and covers 39 acres just outside of Sonoma. Opened in 1960, it features a museum, plenty of scenic hiking trails, and picnic areas.
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Historic Sites
- Museums
- Historic Walking Tours
Which park is the best for a day hike?
The largest park in Sonoma is the Jack London State Historic Park, offering organized hikes, guided tours, and even horseback hiding. There are 20 miles of trails winding through the different areas of the park, from the old Bath House and Mary's Clearing to the Historic Orchard, Woodcutter's Meadow, and Pine Tree Meadows. Park guests can explore it all starting from the main visitors' area, where a detailed park map is available. Bag lunches are recommended and the park requests that you take all trash with you for disposal or recycling.
Which historic site is best for children?
The Bear Flag Monument is a great site for kids to see. This plaque is mounted on a large boulder at the Sonoma Plaza near Sonoma State Historic Park. The people of Sonoma played a role in the Mexican American war by creating the California Republic flag in 1846 when Sonoma was part of Alta California, Mexico. The new flag symbolized that the United States of America was going to claim and fight for the area. Sonoma State Historic Park is also smaller and therefore easier to cover.