This portion of our guide to the Russian River Valley follows the river as it ventures into redwood country. On this leg of the trip, you’ll pass through charming towns like Windsor, Forestville, Guerneville, and Monte Rio, with plenty of options for wine tasting, golfing, swimming, and hiking along the way. Walk among ancient redwoods, paddle down the river in a kayak or canoe, and experience the spectacular majesty of a Sonoma County getaway.
Exploring the River’s Twists and Turns
Riverfront Regional Park
- Description: Our first stop along Eastside Road is the 300-acre Riverfront Regional Park. With two beautiful lakes, a 15-acre redwood grove, and former mining quarries turned into crystal-clear fishing and kayaking lakes, this park offers classic Wine Country scenery. It’s perfect for a picnic or leisurely day outdoors.
- Highlights: Redwood forest, kayaking, fishing, picnicking
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Details: Open daily from sunrise to sunset; picnic areas available; parking $7 per vehicle
Windsor Town Green
- Description: Just minutes west of Riverfront Regional Park, you’ll find downtown Windsor. The Town Green is a hub of local life, with shops, restaurants, and year-round community events like farmers markets and movie nights. It’s a great stop to stretch your legs and explore.
- Highlights: Local shopping, seasonal events, family-friendly
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Details: Free parking; events vary by season; kid-friendly
Burke’s Canoe Trips
- Description: For those who love adventure, head to Burke’s Canoe Trips. Rent a canoe or kayak, and they’ll provide a shuttle service to start you off. You can also enjoy riverside camping along the Russian River—perfect for a weekend getaway.
- Highlights: Kayaking, canoeing, camping
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Details: Rentals available seasonally; reservations recommended for weekends
Farmhouse Inn (Forestville)
- Description: For a culinary delight, stop by the Michelin-starred Farmhouse Inn just outside Forestville. Their farm-to-fork dining experience changes seasonally and is complemented by an impressive selection of Sonoma County wines.
- Highlights: Michelin-starred dining, luxury accommodations, Sonoma wines
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Details: Dinner reservations required; boutique hotel and spa services available
Korbel Champagne Cellars (Guerneville)
- Description: Korbel Champagne Cellars, established in 1882, is a must-see for wine lovers. They offer tastings and guided tours of their historic cellar and gardens. With 250 varieties of antique roses and an on-site deli, it’s a memorable stop.
- Highlights: Champagne tastings, historical tours, beautiful gardens
- Rating: 4.9/5
- Details: Open daily; guided tours fill up quickly, so plan ahead
Johnson’s Beach (Guerneville)
- Description: For water enthusiasts, Johnson’s Beach in Guerneville offers swimming, paddling, and floating on the Russian River. Canoes, kayaks, and inner tubes are available for rent, making it a perfect summer destination.
- Highlights: River swimming, rentals available, family-friendly
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Details: Rentals available seasonally; small parking fee
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
- Description: Just two miles from downtown Guerneville, Armstrong Redwoods is a stunning 805-acre reserve where you can walk among ancient redwood trees. With trails for all skill levels, it’s a peaceful retreat into nature.
- Highlights: Towering redwoods, hiking trails, serene atmosphere
- Rating: 5/5
- Details: Free entry to walk-in visitors; $10 per vehicle; trails open daily
Northwood Golf Club (Monte Rio)
- Description: The 9-hole Northwood Golf Club in Monte Rio was designed by famed architect Alister MacKenzie in 1928. Surrounded by redwoods, it offers a challenging yet scenic golfing experience.
- Highlights: Historic golf course, redwood setting, top-rated in the U.S.
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Details: Open to the public; tee times recommended; equipment rentals available
Monte Rio Community Beach
- Description: Monte Rio is a laid-back riverside town known for its relaxing beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, or rent canoes. It’s a quiet spot to enjoy the natural beauty of the Russian River Valley.
- Highlights: Sandy beach, canoe rentals, scenic bridge
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Details: Beach open seasonally; picnic tables and restrooms available
Plan Your Russian River Valley Adventure
Whether you’re exploring redwood forests, paddling down the river, or sipping champagne in a historic cellar, the Russian River Valley offers endless adventure. Plan your trip today and experience the natural beauty and charm of this unique region. Share this guide with friends and family, and don’t forget to tag us in your Russian River Valley travels!
