Studies show that time spent in nature can improve mood, mental health and emotional well-being. With seasonal creeks flowing, and crisp air mixing with sunshine, why not find some peace and quiet – and peace of mind – with an intentional Awe Walk, or take a winter hike on a trail you've never traveled before?

Parks E-News January 2023

It's been a stormy couple of weeks and many of your regional parks were temporarily closed or are still impacted as we clear fallen trees or wait for waters to recede.

Parks E-News December 2022

We've got dozens of new hikes, nature walks, future park visits and volunteer activities to get you outside this winter!

Parks E-News November 2022

From colorful leaves to crisp air and wide-open views, autumn is a great time to explore your favorite regional park – or one you've never visited before. If you're looking a family-friendly outing over the long Thanksgiving weekend, or seeking serious inspiration to burn off that Turkey Day dinner, check out our recent blog post about trails that really shine during fall weather.

Parks E-News October 2022

Your input is needed to shape the future of Mark West Creek Regional Park and Open Space Preserve, northeast of Santa Rosa. We're creating a master plan to guide the long-term development of this parkland (which is not yet open to the public) and we want to hear from you!

Parks E-News August 2022

They’re one of the more magnificent wild creatures found in Sonoma County’s parks – and one we’re unlikely to ever see. Tawny, majestic and amazingly athletic, mountain lions are native to our landscape.

Parks E-News July 2022

As we're exploring parks and beaches this summer, let's embrace the Leave No Trace principles that help keep landscapes clean, wildlife safe and visitors happy.

Parks E-News June 2022

More of Hood Mountain Regional Park and Open Space Preserve is now open for hiking, biking, horseback riding and camping following months of cleanup and repairs after the 2020 Glass fire burned across most of the park and scorched some of the same parkland that burned in the 2017 Nuns fire.

Parks E-News April 2022

Now is the time to hit the paths and trails of Sonoma County for an eyeful of raw wildflower beauty.

Parks E-News March 2022

Happy spring! Although the season officially begins March 20, wildflower season has already begun in Sonoma County, with early blooms abounding at Foothill, Crane Creek, Helen Putnam, Shiloh and other regional parks known for their brilliant spring wildflower displays.

Parks E-News February 2022

Sonoma County Regional Parks has acquired 120 acres on the western flank of Hood Mountain Regional Park and Open Space Preserve above Sonoma Valley, a strategic expansion that will preserve scenic views and wildlife habitat, offer new recreation opportunities, and support future wildfire defense.

Parks E-News January 2022

Helen Putnam Regional Park’s many fans have more to celebrate with the opening of a new entrance and trail on the north side of this Petaluma park. On Windsor Drive, a much-anticipated 31-space parking lot leads to the new West Wind Trail, which connects visitors conveniently to the park interior (see below for more on the new trail).

Parks E-News December 2021

December weather makes our skies extra big and beautiful. And for a big view of big sky — not to mention big landscapes, and the big waters of the San Pablo Bay — you can’t do better than Tolay Lake Regional Park southeast of Petaluma. This park’s unique seasonal lake, marshlands, grasslands and ridges give unobstructed views for miles, so it’s exceptionally good for bird-watching and vista-gazing.