Tolay Lake Regional Park – Gathering Area

What & Why?

Tolay Lake Regional Park Gathering Area is being constructed. It is the first element of the Tolay Lake Regional Park Master Plan to be realized. The Outdoor Class/Stage (Element BB in the Master Plan) will be the new Gathering Area located at the Park Complex, just uphill from Willow Pond and the existing group picnic area. The site is on a gently sloping hill facing Tolay Lake and Valley. Scenic views from the site include Tolay Lake, Creek, and Valley, with Mount Diablo as a backdrop in the distance.

The Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria and Sonoma County Regional Parks have been working in collaboration to complete the project thanks to their co-management agreement. Through this partnership, a team has been assembled to oversee the design and construction of the Gathering Area. Following a coordinated effort in the first phase of master plan construction, the team has applied for and received grant funding, developed design ideas and construction plans, and completed phase 1 of project construction. 

The Gathering Area is designed for maximum versatility, supporting both large-scale community celebrations and intimate education programming. Key features include:

• Stage & shade structure: Formal stage equipped with a new shade structure to host performances and events.
• Tiered seating: Blend of formal seat walls near the stage, wood benches and amphitheater-style lawn seating on the grassy hillside.
• Educational nodes: Compact, circular terraced areas with paved surfaces and interpretive elements designed for small-group teaching.
• Improved accessibility: Enhanced walkways connecting the Gathering Area to existing accessible parking, picnic sites, and restrooms.
• Ecological restoration: Removal of select eucalyptus trees surrounding the site to make way for native plantings. These native species will provide wildlife habitat and include ethnobotanical plants essential to tribal culture.

What's Next?

Phase 2 construction is scheduled to begin in March 2026. This final stage of work includes the installation of the stage shade structure and site finishing.

Construction is expected to be completed by the end of September 2026, with a full public opening anticipated for fall 2026. For your safety and the safety of our crews, please use caution and respect all posted construction signs and trail closures.