Sugarloaf Ridge State Park

Nestled into the majestic Mayacamas Mountains between Sonoma and Napa Valleys, Sugarloaf Ridge holds the headwaters of 33-mile-long Sonoma Creek, a 25-foot seasonal waterfall, and 2,729-foot Bald Mountain. The nearly 4,000-acre park is known for fabulous hiking through tree-covered ridges and a canyon redwood forest, and many trails also accommodate mountain bikers. For families, a big draw is the splendid Robert Ferguson Observatory, which houses several big telescopes and is open to the public on weekends. The Observatory has also created an outdoor scale model of the solar system, allowing you to hike from planet to planet.

Sugarloaf has 47 family campsites in a large meadow; sites accommodate RVs up to 27' long and campers up to 23'. Each site has a table and fire ring; flush toilets and drinking water are nearby. A group campsite, capable of handling 50, is available. Download Sugarloaf Park maps; make a reservation online at Reserve California or call 1-800-444-7275.

Maximum Size: Trailer: 24 Feet, Camper/Motorhome: 27 Feet

A 25-foot waterfall flows after the winter rains. There is a self-guided nature trail along Sonoma Creek that starts near the picnic area.  Dogs must be on a leash under your control at all times. Dogs are not allowed on trails. Dogs must be in a tent, camper or enclosed vehicle during the night.

Within the oak woodland and chaparral, the park has 25 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding.

Deer, gray foxes, the occasional bobcat and coyote can be seen in the park. In spring, wildflowers provide a colorful palette across the green hills. Note that all plants and wildlife within the park are protected. Collecting or destroying anything in the park, including mushrooms, is prohibited.

On a clear day, visitors can see views of the Sierra Nevada and the Golden Gate bridge from the 2729-foot summit of Bald Mountain.

The non-profit Valley of the Moon Observatory Association provides year-round astronomy education and interpretation programs at the Robert Ferguson Observatory within Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.  Program fees vary, some are free with the payment of the park's Day Use Fee. There are three telescopes and the New Generation 40-inch Telescope Project at the Ferguson Observatory which will be one of the largest telescopes dedicated for public viewing.

Location/Directions
The park is about one hour away from San Francisco and seven miles east of Santa Rosa.