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Located in the heart of the beautiful Napa Valley wine country, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park offers camping at 50 campsites, picnicking, swimming, and hiking trails that go through stands of coastal redwoods as well as forests of Douglas-fir, tanoak, and madrone.
Daytime visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll in Ritchey Canyon on the Redwood Trail to view the delicate ferns and listen to the water splashing down the rocky creekbed. Bring your wine and cheese and picnic under the towering Douglas Firs.
On hot summer days, grab a swimsuit and towel and come enjoy a dip in the park's swimming pool open on weekends, beginning on Memorial Day weekend through mid-June, then daily through Labor Day, from 12- 6pm. There is an additional fee for the use of the swimming pool, to be paid at the park entrance.
The large picnic grounds are located in the day-use area, and are even available for group events and getaways. A covered area for group use contains picnic tables, a sink and an electrical outlet with a horseshoe pit and wheelchair-accessible restroom nearby.
Whether you visit the back country on a several hour hike or take a mere stroll along the creekbed, you will enjoy a close-up look at all the natural beauty the park has to offer. There are well over 10 miles of trail for your indulgence.
Park News Alert
Note: Due to budget constraints the campground is closed. Camping is not available at this park.
California State Parks is working closely with community partners to operate this park. For an update on the proposal from the Napa County Regional Parks and Open Space District, please visit their website.
WATER CONSERVATION measures are in place at the park.
Water Conservation continues to be in place at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. Website information will be updated if the groundwater supply is not able to produce enough to keep up with day-use picnicking and camping water demand. (Updated July 28, 2010)
Water to fill R.V. tanks, has been shut off at the park's filling station.
Pay showers are available.
The swimming pool is open for the summer season.
Campground reservations can be made by contacting Reserve America.
Note: Due to budget constraints the campground is closed. Camping is not available at this park.
California State Parks is working closely with community partners to operate this park. For an update on the proposal from the Napa County Regional Parks and Open Space District, please visit their website.
WATER CONSERVATION measures are in place at the park.
Water Conservation continues to be in place at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. Website information will be updated if the groundwater supply is not able to produce enough to keep up with day-use picnicking and camping water demand. (Updated July 28, 2010)
Water to fill R.V. tanks, has been shut off at the park's filling station.
Pay showers are available.
The swimming pool is open for the summer season.
Campground reservations can be made by contacting Reserve America.
Getting There
The park is located 5 miles north of St. Helena and 4 miles south of Calistoga on Highway 29/128.
Latitude/Longitude: 38.5376 / -122.5788
South - Near the Coast
Take Highway 101 north to Highway 37 at Novato, east on Highway 37 to Highway 121, north on Highway 121 to Highway 29 near Napa, north on Highway 29 to the park entrance.
South - Inland
Take I5 north to I580, west on I580 to I680, north to I780, north to I80, east to Highway 37, west to Highway 29, north on Highway 29 to the park entrance.
North - Near the Coast
Take Highway 101 south to Calistoga exit, go east on Mark West Rd., continuing on Porter Creek Rd. to Petrified Forest Rd., turn left, go to Highway 128, turn right and follow Highway 128 past Calistoga to the park entrance.
North-Inland
Take I5 south to Highway 20, west to Highway 53, south to Highway 29 at Lower Lake, then south on Highway 29 to the park entrance.
East
Take I80 west to Highway 12, west to Highway 29, then north to the park entrance.
The Day Use Annual Pass is accepted at this park.
The park is located 5 miles north of St. Helena and 4 miles south of Calistoga on Highway 29/128.
Latitude/Longitude: 38.5376 / -122.5788
South - Near the Coast
Take Highway 101 north to Highway 37 at Novato, east on Highway 37 to Highway 121, north on Highway 121 to Highway 29 near Napa, north on Highway 29 to the park entrance.
South - Inland
Take I5 north to I580, west on I580 to I680, north to I780, north to I80, east to Highway 37, west to Highway 29, north on Highway 29 to the park entrance.
North - Near the Coast
Take Highway 101 south to Calistoga exit, go east on Mark West Rd., continuing on Porter Creek Rd. to Petrified Forest Rd., turn left, go to Highway 128, turn right and follow Highway 128 past Calistoga to the park entrance.
North-Inland
Take I5 south to Highway 20, west to Highway 53, south to Highway 29 at Lower Lake, then south on Highway 29 to the park entrance.
East
Take I80 west to Highway 12, west to Highway 29, then north to the park entrance.
The Day Use Annual Pass is accepted at this park.
Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
The park exhibits more seasonal changes than most Californians experience. Hot, dry summers change to mild, wet winters; in between, in spring and fall, the park and its surrounding area are probably at their finest.
Summer temperatures may reach 105 degrees Fahrenheit, but nights are usually cool. In the fall, when daytime temperatures are more pleasant, the leaves begin to turn, creating a dramatic and colorful display.
Temperatures don't often go below freezing and snow is infrequent, but nearly 45 inches of rain are apt to fall during a single winter - between December and March.
The park exhibits more seasonal changes than most Californians experience. Hot, dry summers change to mild, wet winters; in between, in spring and fall, the park and its surrounding area are probably at their finest.
Summer temperatures may reach 105 degrees Fahrenheit, but nights are usually cool. In the fall, when daytime temperatures are more pleasant, the leaves begin to turn, creating a dramatic and colorful display.
Temperatures don't often go below freezing and snow is infrequent, but nearly 45 inches of rain are apt to fall during a single winter - between December and March.
Operating Hours & Contact
The park is open from 8am to sunset
Telephone: 707-942-4575
The park is open from 8am to sunset
Telephone: 707-942-4575
Tips & Rules
Water Conservation measures are in place at the park.
Water Conservation continues to be in place at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. Website information will be updated if the groundwater supply is not able to produce enough to keep up with day-use picnicking and camping water demand. (Updated July 28, 2010)
•Water to fill R.V. tanks, has been shut off at the park's filling station.
•Pay showers are available.
•The swimming pool is open for the summer season.
•Dogs are restricted to the camp and picnic areas and must be leashed. They are not permitted on the trails or in the pool area. Dogs may not be left unattended and must be inside a vehicle or tent at night.
•Be on the watch for poison oak, found in nearly all areas of the park. Contact (even when dormant) can cause a severe rash. Remember, "Leaves of three—let them be!"
•Fires are permitted only in park fire grates or stoves.
•All natural and cultural features, including down wood, are protected by law and may not be removed or disturbed. Firewood is sold by the camp hosts.
Water Conservation measures are in place at the park.
Water Conservation continues to be in place at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. Website information will be updated if the groundwater supply is not able to produce enough to keep up with day-use picnicking and camping water demand. (Updated July 28, 2010)
•Water to fill R.V. tanks, has been shut off at the park's filling station.
•Pay showers are available.
•The swimming pool is open for the summer season.
•Dogs are restricted to the camp and picnic areas and must be leashed. They are not permitted on the trails or in the pool area. Dogs may not be left unattended and must be inside a vehicle or tent at night.
•Be on the watch for poison oak, found in nearly all areas of the park. Contact (even when dormant) can cause a severe rash. Remember, "Leaves of three—let them be!"
•Fires are permitted only in park fire grates or stoves.
•All natural and cultural features, including down wood, are protected by law and may not be removed or disturbed. Firewood is sold by the camp hosts.
Camping
The park’s 50 campsites are available year-round at the valley's only state park campground. Nine sites offer walk-in and tent-only camping. Another site is reserved for hikers and bicyclists. These ten sites are each limited to five occupants. Forty site-specific family campsites may be reserved for dates between March and October. The group camp may be reserved year-round.
Make Campground Reservations
Max Camper Length: 31 Feet
Max Trailer Length: 24 Feet
The park’s 50 campsites are available year-round at the valley's only state park campground. Nine sites offer walk-in and tent-only camping. Another site is reserved for hikers and bicyclists. These ten sites are each limited to five occupants. Forty site-specific family campsites may be reserved for dates between March and October. The group camp may be reserved year-round.
Make Campground Reservations
Max Camper Length: 31 Feet
Max Trailer Length: 24 Feet
Activities
Trails: Almost 10 miles of trails, in 12 different loops, are available to hikers, equestrians and bicyclists. The moderately strenuous Coyote Peak Trail is the most popular, climbing 1.5 miles to the 1,170-foot peak for scenic vistas of the valley and hills, Mount Saint Helena and Upper Ritchey Canyon. Other park trails vary in their difficulty. The 1.1-mile History Trail leads from the picnic area past the Pioneer Cemetery to Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park. The Ritchey Canyon Trail leads to the Traverso Homestead site, dating to the 1880s.
Picnics: The park has 50 picnic tables with barbecue stoves and water faucets available. Campsite tables are reserved for registered campers. A large group picnic site has a shade ramada, a sink and an electrical outlet. Reserve the group picnic site by calling (707) 942-4575.
Trails: Almost 10 miles of trails, in 12 different loops, are available to hikers, equestrians and bicyclists. The moderately strenuous Coyote Peak Trail is the most popular, climbing 1.5 miles to the 1,170-foot peak for scenic vistas of the valley and hills, Mount Saint Helena and Upper Ritchey Canyon. Other park trails vary in their difficulty. The 1.1-mile History Trail leads from the picnic area past the Pioneer Cemetery to Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park. The Ritchey Canyon Trail leads to the Traverso Homestead site, dating to the 1880s.
Picnics: The park has 50 picnic tables with barbecue stoves and water faucets available. Campsite tables are reserved for registered campers. A large group picnic site has a shade ramada, a sink and an electrical outlet. Reserve the group picnic site by calling (707) 942-4575.
Natural Resources & Wildlife
Most of the park is rugged, with elevations ranging from 300 to 2,000 feet. You will notice a pattern in the vegetation: the forests are on the north-facing slopes and in canyons, while south-facing slopes tend to be brushy; redwoods grow only near creeks or springs.
Plant life hides much of the park's geology, which is principally volcanic, but you can see a reminder of the area's violent geologic past in the volcanic ash cliffs of upper Ritchey Canyon.
Coast redwoods grow in the north slopes and canyons. Bothe-Napa Valley is the farthest inland of the redwood state parks. Redwood forests obtain at least 30 percent of their moisture from fog. As the planet's climate changes, coast redwoods cannot absorb vital nutrients when less fog is present on warmer days.
Other trees include tan oak, Douglas-fir and madrone. Plants that the Wappo depended upon for food, medicine, shelter, tools, ceremonies and crafts still grow in the Native Plant Garden: oaks, ghost pine, sedge, Pacific rush, wild tobacco and soap root. Volcanic rocks ranging in age from 3-5 million years underpin the park and accumulated in layers, ranging in composition and texture from frothy pumice to powdery ash lake deposits and glassy tuffs. These materials "born of fire" contribute to the highly prized characteristics of this world-class wine producing region.
The park is home to raccoons, gray squirrels, deer, foxes, bobcats, and coyotes to name a few, but they are sometimes difficult to spot because of their nocturnal habits and the heavy forest cover.
Several species of birds can be easily detected though, including the six kinds of woodpecker that inhabit the park. The spectacular crow-sized pileated woodpecker is one of them. On a rarer occasion a spotted owl can be found, perched high in a redwood tree.
Most of the park is rugged, with elevations ranging from 300 to 2,000 feet. You will notice a pattern in the vegetation: the forests are on the north-facing slopes and in canyons, while south-facing slopes tend to be brushy; redwoods grow only near creeks or springs.
Plant life hides much of the park's geology, which is principally volcanic, but you can see a reminder of the area's violent geologic past in the volcanic ash cliffs of upper Ritchey Canyon.
Coast redwoods grow in the north slopes and canyons. Bothe-Napa Valley is the farthest inland of the redwood state parks. Redwood forests obtain at least 30 percent of their moisture from fog. As the planet's climate changes, coast redwoods cannot absorb vital nutrients when less fog is present on warmer days.
Other trees include tan oak, Douglas-fir and madrone. Plants that the Wappo depended upon for food, medicine, shelter, tools, ceremonies and crafts still grow in the Native Plant Garden: oaks, ghost pine, sedge, Pacific rush, wild tobacco and soap root. Volcanic rocks ranging in age from 3-5 million years underpin the park and accumulated in layers, ranging in composition and texture from frothy pumice to powdery ash lake deposits and glassy tuffs. These materials "born of fire" contribute to the highly prized characteristics of this world-class wine producing region.
The park is home to raccoons, gray squirrels, deer, foxes, bobcats, and coyotes to name a few, but they are sometimes difficult to spot because of their nocturnal habits and the heavy forest cover.
Several species of birds can be easily detected though, including the six kinds of woodpecker that inhabit the park. The spectacular crow-sized pileated woodpecker is one of them. On a rarer occasion a spotted owl can be found, perched high in a redwood tree.
Facilities
Located by the entrance to the park is the Visitor Center. The Visitor Center and entrance station are open intermittently when staffing is available. Brochures (hiking maps) are also available by mail.
Next to the park's Visitor Center is the Native American Garden which displays some of the plants important to the first people of this area. Today, many of the same plants are used by the Wappo people. A guide for the garden is available by mail or in the Visitor Center to broaden one's understanding of the first people.
The park’s swimming pool is open on weekends, beginning on Memorial Day weekend through mid-June, then daily through Labor Day, from 12- 6pm. There is an additional fee for the use of the swimming pool, to be paid at the park entrance.
The large picnic grounds are located in the day-use area, and are even available for group events and getaways. A covered area for group use contains picnic tables, a sink and an electrical outlet with a horseshoe pit and wheelchair-accessible restroom nearby.
Near the day-use/picnic area is the Pioneer Cemetery, resting-place of some of the original settlers of the Napa Valley. The cemetery is an interesting place to visit while on a day hike, and is currently under restoration to return it to its original, mid-1800's appearance.
Interpretive programs are offered throughout the year. Special programs can sometimes be arranged for groups by calling the park in advance.
Located by the entrance to the park is the Visitor Center. The Visitor Center and entrance station are open intermittently when staffing is available. Brochures (hiking maps) are also available by mail.
Next to the park's Visitor Center is the Native American Garden which displays some of the plants important to the first people of this area. Today, many of the same plants are used by the Wappo people. A guide for the garden is available by mail or in the Visitor Center to broaden one's understanding of the first people.
The park’s swimming pool is open on weekends, beginning on Memorial Day weekend through mid-June, then daily through Labor Day, from 12- 6pm. There is an additional fee for the use of the swimming pool, to be paid at the park entrance.
The large picnic grounds are located in the day-use area, and are even available for group events and getaways. A covered area for group use contains picnic tables, a sink and an electrical outlet with a horseshoe pit and wheelchair-accessible restroom nearby.
Near the day-use/picnic area is the Pioneer Cemetery, resting-place of some of the original settlers of the Napa Valley. The cemetery is an interesting place to visit while on a day hike, and is currently under restoration to return it to its original, mid-1800's appearance.
Interpretive programs are offered throughout the year. Special programs can sometimes be arranged for groups by calling the park in advance.
History
Native People
From 6,000 B.C., the Koliholmanok ("woods people") lived in the areas now called Calistoga, along Ritchey Creek and south as far as Rutherford. These hunter-gatherers made fine obsidian tools—knives, scrapers, arrow and spear points—as well as intricate baskets and ceremonial objects. The Koliholmanok people were thought to number about 2,000 before the Europeans came to Alta California. When Spanish settlers arrived, it is believed that they called the native people guapo for their bravery, daring and good looks; the native people eventually became known as the Wappo. Mexican feudal barons and gold seekers upset the Wappo balance of life, and diseases such as smallpox devastated the Wappo population.
By 1855, nearly 20 years after Missouri fur trapper George C. Yount planted the area’s first grapevines, only a fraction of the Wappo people remained. Wappo descendants in Napa and Sonoma counties continue to practice and honor their ancestral traditions.
Early Pioneers
Dr. Edward T. Bale was given 18,000 acres of land in the 1840s through a Mexican land grant. To process grain into meal using water power, Dr. Bale built the nearby Bale Grist Mill, which is now a state historic park, 1.5 miles south of this park. The valley's first school was built near the mill by Sarah Fosdick Graves, a member of the Donner Party. The first church in Napa Valley was built in 1853. Named for Asa White, its pioneer Methodist- Episcopal preacher, the church site is near Pioneer Cemetery on the History Trail.
Bothe-Napa Valley’s visitor center was originally built for George and Angeline Kellogg Tucker around 1858. Tucker family graves lie in the park's Pioneer Cemetery. The portion of Dr. Bale's land now called Bothe-Napa Valley State Park was purchased in the 1870s by Dr. and Mrs. Charles M. Hitchcock of San Francisco. The Hitchcocks' second home, “Lonely,” was built on the property. Hitchcock, his wife Martha and his daughter, Lillie Hitchcock Coit, entertained San Francisco society at Lonely and helped popularize the sunny valley as a summer getaway from the city. Lillie had been saved from a fire by San Francisco firemen when she was a child and she became an unofficial mascot for San Francisco's fire brigades. After Lillie Hitchcock Coit's death in 1929, her bequest to the city paid for the building of nozzle shaped Coit Tower, honoring San Francisco’s firefighters. Her summer home Lonely also burned to the ground in 1929.
Native People
From 6,000 B.C., the Koliholmanok ("woods people") lived in the areas now called Calistoga, along Ritchey Creek and south as far as Rutherford. These hunter-gatherers made fine obsidian tools—knives, scrapers, arrow and spear points—as well as intricate baskets and ceremonial objects. The Koliholmanok people were thought to number about 2,000 before the Europeans came to Alta California. When Spanish settlers arrived, it is believed that they called the native people guapo for their bravery, daring and good looks; the native people eventually became known as the Wappo. Mexican feudal barons and gold seekers upset the Wappo balance of life, and diseases such as smallpox devastated the Wappo population.
By 1855, nearly 20 years after Missouri fur trapper George C. Yount planted the area’s first grapevines, only a fraction of the Wappo people remained. Wappo descendants in Napa and Sonoma counties continue to practice and honor their ancestral traditions.
Early Pioneers
Dr. Edward T. Bale was given 18,000 acres of land in the 1840s through a Mexican land grant. To process grain into meal using water power, Dr. Bale built the nearby Bale Grist Mill, which is now a state historic park, 1.5 miles south of this park. The valley's first school was built near the mill by Sarah Fosdick Graves, a member of the Donner Party. The first church in Napa Valley was built in 1853. Named for Asa White, its pioneer Methodist- Episcopal preacher, the church site is near Pioneer Cemetery on the History Trail.
Bothe-Napa Valley’s visitor center was originally built for George and Angeline Kellogg Tucker around 1858. Tucker family graves lie in the park's Pioneer Cemetery. The portion of Dr. Bale's land now called Bothe-Napa Valley State Park was purchased in the 1870s by Dr. and Mrs. Charles M. Hitchcock of San Francisco. The Hitchcocks' second home, “Lonely,” was built on the property. Hitchcock, his wife Martha and his daughter, Lillie Hitchcock Coit, entertained San Francisco society at Lonely and helped popularize the sunny valley as a summer getaway from the city. Lillie had been saved from a fire by San Francisco firemen when she was a child and she became an unofficial mascot for San Francisco's fire brigades. After Lillie Hitchcock Coit's death in 1929, her bequest to the city paid for the building of nozzle shaped Coit Tower, honoring San Francisco’s firefighters. Her summer home Lonely also burned to the ground in 1929.
Accessible Features
Camping: Two sites are generally accessible, but packed gravel surfaces may occasionally be a bit loose. Generally accessible restrooms with showers are near both accessible sites. The campground has spacious roll-in showers with upper and lower showerheads, but controls are opposite the folding bench, so assistance may be needed to reach them. As an alternative, newer accessible restrooms with showers whose controls are on the wall adjacent to the folding bench are located a short drive away in the picnic area, and accessible parking is available.
Picnic Area: The day-use picnic area includes two accessibly located and designed tables. An adjacent restroom with showers is accessible. Another picnic area opposite the restroom has a shaded ramada that can be reserved for group use with accessible tables nearby.
Swimming Pool: A pool is open during the summer months. A new pool lift has been installed to enhance swimming access. Accessible parking is nearby. Accessible restroom and showers are within 200 feet of the pool at the picnic area.
Campfire Center: A redesigned campfire center includes accessible seating and presentation area.
Camping: Two sites are generally accessible, but packed gravel surfaces may occasionally be a bit loose. Generally accessible restrooms with showers are near both accessible sites. The campground has spacious roll-in showers with upper and lower showerheads, but controls are opposite the folding bench, so assistance may be needed to reach them. As an alternative, newer accessible restrooms with showers whose controls are on the wall adjacent to the folding bench are located a short drive away in the picnic area, and accessible parking is available.
Picnic Area: The day-use picnic area includes two accessibly located and designed tables. An adjacent restroom with showers is accessible. Another picnic area opposite the restroom has a shaded ramada that can be reserved for group use with accessible tables nearby.
Swimming Pool: A pool is open during the summer months. A new pool lift has been installed to enhance swimming access. Accessible parking is nearby. Accessible restroom and showers are within 200 feet of the pool at the picnic area.
Campfire Center: A redesigned campfire center includes accessible seating and presentation area.
Trails
Summary
Difficulty
Distance
Napa Valley Woodlands, Pioneer Cemetery, and Grist Mill
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park: Out and back hike to the Historic Bale Grist Mill.
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park: Out and back hike to the Historic Bale Grist Mill.
Easy
3.1 mi
5.0 km
5.0 km
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park Exploration
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park stands as a reminder of the natural flora and fauna of the area before the vineyards arose.
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park stands as a reminder of the natural flora and fauna of the area before the vineyards arose.
Difficult
4.0 mi
6.4 km
6.4 km
Guides
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park stands as a reminder of the natural flora and fauna of the area before the vineyards arose.
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park: Out and back hike to the Historic Bale Grist Mill.
Community Trips
Half marathon on beautiful trails in Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, organized by Enviro Sports. We ran with a group from Stanford Business School: Nicholas, Guy, Andre, Jeff and Brett. I finished 6th overall in the half marathon.
