Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve / Austin Creek State Recreation Area
The serene, majestic beauty of this Grove is a living reminder of the magnificent primeval redwood forest that covered much of this area before logging operations began during the 19th century. Armstrong Redwoods preserves stately and magnificent Sequoia sempervirens, commonly known as the coast redwood. These trees stand together as a testament to the wonders of the natural world. The grove offers solace from the hustle and bustle of daily life, offering the onlooker great inspiration and a place for quiet reflection.
The ancient coast redwood is the tallest living thing on our planet! These remarkable trees live to be 500-1,000 years old, grow to a diameter of 12-16 feet, and stand from 200-250 feet tall. Some trees survive to over 2,000 years and tower above 350 feet. Coast redwoods are classified as temperate rainforests and they need wet and mild climates to survive. The rainfall in Armstrong Redwoods averages 55 inches per year and the trees are often shrouded in a mystical fog that helps to maintain the moist conditions needed for the redwoods to survive. To find out more about these magnificent trees click the link About Coast Redwoods to the right.
The reserve includes a visitor center, self-guided nature trails, and a variety of picnic facilities. While you can drive into the park, the best way to experience the dramatic effect of the towering redwoods, is to park in the lot at the park entrance and walk in for free. Donations are accepted at the Visitor Center and at the kiosk entrance. All of the main park features can be found along the Pioneer Nature Trail. This trail is a mile and a half long round trip, is ADA accessible and is mostly flat and level.
Although no camping is available in Armstrong Redwood SNR, there is a campground operated by Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods located in Austin Creek State Recreation Area at Bullfrog Pond Campground (3 miles above Armstrong). Austin Creek SRA is accessed through the same entrance as Armstrong Redwoods. Austin Creek's rolling hills, open grasslands, conifers, and oaks are a beautiful and dramatic contrast to the dense canopy of the redwood grove. For more information go to Austin Creek State Recreation Area. by clicking the link on the right. For online reservations at Bullfrog Pond Campground or any of the backcountry campsites go to www.hipcamp.com
The redwood ecosystem is very fragile. Every effort is being made to preserve and protect this grove but it can only be done with your help. When you visit, please do not disturb or remove any natural features of the park, stay on designated trails and do not cross over the low- level fence line. We hope you enjoy a serene and rejuvenating visit among these inspiring giants.
NOTE: Dogs must be controlled on a leash at ALL times during your visit to your parks. Dogs on leash are only allowed on the main, paved road, in one of the developed picnic areas or within your registered campsite at Bullfrog Pond Campground. Dogs are NOT allowed on any dirt trail or dirt road. If camping, your pet will need to stay in your tent or in your vehicle overnight.
NOTE: Due to limited free parking, buses will be asked to drop their visitors off in the front lot. There is a park and ride located in Guerneville across from Safeway.
