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Sonoma County Regional Parks Newsletter - November 2022

Sports and Recreation

November 11, 2022

From: Sonoma County Regional Parks

Fresh air and fall foliage

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.

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Veterans, active duty get free holiday parking

In honor of Veterans Day – as a token of our sincere appreciation to all those who serve –military members, veterans and their families can get free parking at all Sonoma County Regional Parks from Friday, Nov. 11 through Sunday, Nov. 13.  

Passes must be picked up in advance with the proper military/veteran identification, and are available through the holiday weekend at Doran Regional Park (pictured above).

Get a pass

Why are there lakes at Riverfront?

In addition to a peaceful redwood grove and easily accessible trails, Riverfront Regional Park near Healdsburg has two beautiful lakes within its boundaries and another one right next door. Have you ever wondered how they came to be? Watch our latest installment of "Ask Parks!" to find out the answer.

Watch now

Tell us what you want at Mark West: Take the survey!

We're creating a master plan to guide the long-term development of Mark West Creek Regional Park and Open Space Preserve (not yet open to the public) and we want to hear from you! Would you prefer gentle trails or strenuous trails? All multi-use trails or some trails for hikers only? Picnic sites? Backcountry camping? Share your feedback by taking a brief survey by Friday, Nov. 11, at MarkWestCreekParkandPreserve.org

Take the survey

Give the gift of parks

Support the health and happiness of family and friends this holiday season with Regional Parks gift memberships. When you give a parks membership, you're giving a year of free parking at more than 55 parks, trails and beaches, one night of free camping, and endless opportunities to get outside in 2023.

Gift memberships come in the form of a voucher that recipients can redeem when they are ready to begin their membership. Gift membership vouchers are available now at Oliver’s Markets, REI Santa Rosa, Sebastopol Hardware, Copperfield's Books in Petaluma, Garrett Ace Hardware in Healdsburg and Windsor, Trek Bicycle in Santa Rosa, Fleet Feet Sports in Santa Rosa, Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau, and Four-Eyed Frog Books in Gualala.

Give a gift membership

Choose your own adventure

Science Saturdays

Kids are invited to an interactive science hour at Spring Lake Regional Park's Environmental Discovery Center, while parents and caregivers head out into the park for rejuvenating, kid-free time in nature! On Saturday, Nov. 12, make a beautiful marbled paper card, perfect for a gratitude note or holiday sentiment. Two sessions: 11 a.m.-noon or 1-2 p.m. Sign up.

Stories of the Land: Carrington Coast Ranch

Who lived here before us? On Saturday, Nov. 19, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., join us to explore the human and animal history at Carrington Coast Ranch, one of our future parks (not yet open to the public) on the Sonoma Coast. Sign up.

Parks After Dark – Twilight Hike

On Friday, Nov. 18, 4:30-6:30 p.m., join us for this exclusive evening series as we explore the changes and sensations the darkness brings at Tolay Lake Regional Park. This family friendly walk offers a chance to learn about our nocturnal neighbors, play games and be exhilarated by nightlife in the park. Sign up.

Calabazas Creek Park Preview

Come explore our newest Sonoma Valley property (not yet open to the public) on Saturday, Nov. 19. Calabazas Creek Regional Park and Open Space Preserve has a fascinating history, beautiful vistas, creekside treasures and a challenging hike option. Staff and volunteers will be available to answer questions about this future park. Sign up.

More adventures

Little Parkies: Mighty Oaks – Nov. 13 at Sonoma Valley Regional Park

Doran Beach Tidepool Talk – Nov. 20 at Doran Regional Park

Winging it Wednesdays – Nov. 30 at Shiloh Ranch Regional Park

See full calendar