Spring Lake Regional Park, on the east side of Santa Rosa, is one of Sonoma County's most popular parks, according to Sonoma County Regional Parks. Its lifeguarded swimming lagoon and floating Water Park run from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. The lake, trails and campground are open all year.

Getting in

  • North entrance: 393 Violetti Road. This side has the swimming lagoon, boat rentals and the Environmental Discovery Center.
  • South entrance: 5585 Newanga Ave. This side has the campground and boat launch.
  • Hours: 7 a.m. to sunset.
  • Parking: $8 in fall, winter and spring and $12 in summer. Members park free.

Trails

The park has nearly 10 miles of trails. The paved Spring Lake Loop runs 2.3 miles around the lake. It is mostly flat, with a short climb to the main dam, and is shared by walkers, runners and cyclists. Unpaved routes such as the Fisherman's Trail and the Horse Loop wind off it. The trails connect to Santa Rosa's Howarth Park and to Trione-Annadel State Park, and there is an 18-stop fitness course along the loop.

Wikipedia says birders watch for geese, egrets, herons, hawks, woodpeckers and warblers around the reservoir.

On the water

The 72-acre lake does not allow gas engines. Everyone on the water must wear a flotation device, and boaters under 14 must have an adult with them. A paved ramp at the Newanga entrance takes boats up to 16 feet long with electric motors, plus kayaks and paddleboards. Kayak and paddleboard rentals run only from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Anglers catch largemouth bass, sunfish and catfish all year, and anyone 16 or older needs a state license.

Camping and picnics

There are 31 campsites in oak woodland above the lake, and three of them have sleeping cabins. RVs up to 31 feet fit. Reservations are required and open up to six months ahead. Wikipedia says the campground is open daily from May through September and only on weekends and holidays the rest of the year. Picnic tables with grills are spread through the park, and five group areas can be reserved.

Environmental Discovery Center

This nature center has hands-on exhibits about Sonoma County's plants, animals and natural resources. Wikipedia says it also has a touch tide pool.

Dogs are welcome on leash everywhere except the swimming lagoon.