Campolongo Park
Tranquil former Coast Miwok village with hiking, equestrian trails, and a picnic area, known for its ancient trees and wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery, pleasant temps
Campolongo Park
Best Time
Lush greenery, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tranquil former Coast Miwok village with hiking, equestrian trails, and a picnic area, known for its ancient trees and wildlife.
"A remarkable place to visit with great trails and ancient trees, best enjoyed in cooler months."
Pack for the Season
Visit in cooler months for best experience. Summer brings heat, poison oak, and ticks. :evergreen_tree:
Arrive Early
The park closes promptly at 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Oak Groves
Various trails
Wander among huge, ancient trees offering welcome shade and a sense of timelessness. A truly remarkable sight.
Wild Turkey Sightings
Picnic areas and trails
Enjoy a picnic with a chance to spot wild turkeys, adding a touch of local wildlife to your visit.
Equestrian Trails
Designated trails
Explore the park's scenic routes on horseback, a popular activity for those seeking a different perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for the Season
Visit in cooler months for best experience. Summer brings heat, poison oak, and ticks. :evergreen_tree:
Arrive Early
The park closes promptly at 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time. :clock1:
Self-Service Parking
Be prepared for the $8 parking fee, payable via self-service. :parking:
Watch for Poison Oak
Especially prevalent in warmer months, be mindful of poison oak on trails. :herb:
Doin’ that Dead sightseeing in San Francisco
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for the Season
Visit in cooler months for best experience. Summer brings heat, poison oak, and ticks. :evergreen_tree:
Arrive Early
The park closes promptly at 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time. :clock1:
Self-Service Parking
Be prepared for the $8 parking fee, payable via self-service. :parking:
Watch for Poison Oak
Especially prevalent in warmer months, be mindful of poison oak on trails. :herb:
Dog-Free Zone
Dogs are not allowed in the park, so plan accordingly if you're traveling with pets. :noentrysign:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Campolongo Park is appreciated for its beautiful ancient trees and peaceful hiking trails, offering a serene natural escape. Visitors enjoy the chance to see wildlife like wild turkeys and find the picnic areas pleasant. However, some find the parking fee steep, especially during the dry, hot summer months when the park is less inviting and poison oak is prevalent. The early 5 PM closure is also a point of consideration for planning.
"Visited in early September, very dry, everything was closed, descriptions faded, not a employee in sight. Nice hike, but would recommend visiting outside the dry season. IMO not worth the $8 parking fee"
Christopher Szafranski
"This is a really nice walk/hike… very hot.. loud if birds and squirrels and lizards. I hugged a tree today which gave me all the peace i needed 😂🌱"
Jasmin M
"This time of year (mid June) isn’t a great time to visit. Hot, dry, tons of poison oak, and ticks! But some great, wonderful, huge trees. Not many wildflowers out there come back in late February, then it is a five star place"
Charlie Russell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Campolongo Park is located in Novato, California. While specific public transport details are scarce, it's generally best accessed by car. The area is known for its commutes down Highway 101, suggesting driving is the primary mode of transport for visitors.
As a former Coast Miwok village, the park is situated within Novato's natural landscape. GPS navigation is recommended to ensure you reach the correct entrance and parking area.
Novato is a suburb of the Bay Area, and like many such areas, driving is the most common and convenient way to get around. Public transport options might be limited, so factor this into your travel plans.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an $8 parking fee required for entry into Campolongo Park. This fee is typically handled through a self-service payment system.
Campolongo Park closes promptly at 5 PM. It's advisable to plan your visit to ensure you have ample time to explore before closing.
Information regarding advance ticket purchases is not readily available. The primary fee is for parking, which is handled on-site via self-service.
Details on discounts are not widely published. The main cost is the parking fee, so check for any local resident or group rates if applicable.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Campolongo Park offers hiking and equestrian trails, as well as a picnic area. It's a great spot for enjoying nature, spotting wildlife like wild turkeys, and appreciating the large trees. +1
Yes, the park features hiking trails that are described as a nice walk/hike. The terrain is noted as 'smooth up and down,' making it good for exercise while enjoying the scenery. +1
No, dogs are not allowed in Campolongo Park. This is a strict rule, so ensure you make alternative arrangements for your pets.
Yes, there is a designated picnic area. Visitors have enjoyed picnicking in the shade, sometimes with views of wild turkeys.
Visitors have reported seeing wild turkeys, birds, squirrels, and lizards. The park's natural setting provides opportunities for wildlife observation. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The park's ancient trees, rolling hills, and potential wildlife sightings like wild turkeys offer great photographic opportunities. The shaded trails can also provide beautiful natural light. +1
The descriptions of rolling hills and large trees suggest good potential for landscape photography, especially during the greener seasons.
Yes, with patience, you might capture images of wild turkeys, birds, squirrels, and lizards that inhabit the park. +1
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light for photography, avoiding the harsh midday sun, especially during warmer months.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to note that dogs are not allowed, so this is a destination for families without pets. Visiting during the cooler months (spring) is highly recommended to avoid the summer heat and potential hazards like poison oak. Ensure children are aware of and avoid poison oak if present.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to observe local wildlife, such as wild turkeys and various birds. The park's ecological design aims to preserve its natural state, offering an authentic experience of the local environment. Remember to check for poison oak and ticks, particularly in warmer months.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Best Seasons to Visit Campolongo Park
Conversely, the summer months (mid-June onwards) are generally less recommended. Reviews highlight that this time of year can be very hot and dry, with increased risks of encountering poison oak and ticks. While the park's large trees still offer shade, the overall experience might be less enjoyable due to the heat and drier conditions.
Therefore, planning your visit around the cooler, wetter seasons will significantly enhance your enjoyment of Campolongo Park's natural beauty and trails.
Understanding the Park's History and Ecology
The park's landscape is characterized by rolling hills and features large, ancient trees that provide significant shade. These trees are a major draw for visitors seeking a tranquil environment. The trails are described as having a smooth, undulating terrain, making them suitable for both leisurely walks and more vigorous exercise.
Visitors have also noted the presence of wildlife, including wild turkeys, birds, squirrels, and lizards, contributing to the park's ecological richness. The park's management aims to maintain this natural environment, making it a valuable spot for appreciating local flora and fauna.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit