Mountain lions, late summer fun, Water Bark and more

August 2022 NEWSLETTER

Mountain lions in parks: Understanding their behavior, role in the environment

They’re one of the more magnificent wild creatures found in Sonoma County’s parks – and one we’re unlikely to ever see. Tawny, majestic and amazingly athletic, mountain lions are native to our landscape. By nature, they’re highly elusive, so lion sightings are extremely rare. But knowing how to behave if you do meet one, and how to live with lions in the neighborhood, is still the best way to protect both human and cougar families. Learn more about Sonoma County's mountain lions and how to be lion-aware on the trail.

New sports fields and more for Maxwell Farms

New all-weather, water-saving baseball and soccer fields are among the improvements coming to Maxwell Farms Regional Park near Sonoma as part of a long-awaited renovation of the popular park. New restrooms and concession buildings, expanded parking, picnic areas and accessible paths also are among the updates planned in the $7.2-million project, the largest one-time construction award in Regional Parks' history. Construction is underway now, thanks to the Board of Supervisors' recent approval of several funding sources.

Gravenstein Apple Fair is back at Ragle Ranch

“The sweetest fair in Sonoma County” is back.

The Gravenstein Apple Fair returns to Ragle Ranch Regional Park in Sebastopol on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 13-14.

New this year is a VIP lounge along with activities for kids, arts and crafts, farm demonstrations, local food and more.

Reminder: Regional Parks members can park free at the event.

Summer's still on - Enjoy Water Park, boat rentals and River Shuttle all month

It's back-to-school time, but the summer fun isn't over. Spring Lake's Water Park and boat rentals are open daily through Labor Day - perfect for cooling off after school and on weekends. And the Regional Parks River Shuttle runs to Steelhead and Sunset beaches on weekends through Labor Day. Get your tickets for the Water Park or boat rentals or reserve your spot on the River Shuttle.

Water Bark countdown!

The Water Bark, the most popular dog event in the North Bay, is happening Sept. 10, 11, 18, 24 and 25 at the Spring Lake swimming lagoon. The Sonoma County Parks Foundation hosts this event, which allows pups to have a blast romping and splashing after the lagoon closes to (human) swimmers for the season. Money raised supports park projects year-round. Get details and reserve your tickets now, including discounted tickets for Regional Parks members.

Get Water Bark tickets

August outings

Carrington Ranch preview

Enjoy a self-guided hike at future park Carrington Coast Ranch on Aug. 13 and take in sweeping views of the Sonoma Coast. Hike through coastal meadows to a stunning overlook. Registration is required. Sign up.

Water Park: Adults play, too!

End your week with an adults-only evening at the Spring Lake Water Park on Aug. 19. The water park includes an inflatable obstacle course and more. Enjoy a variety of water games that help reduce stress and make us feel young and energetic! Sign up.

Calabazas Creek preview

Come explore our newest property on Aug. 20. Calabazas Creek has a fascinating history, beautiful vistas, creekside treasures and a challenging hike option. Staff and volunteers are available to answer questions about this future park. Sign up.

Backcountry hike: Mark West

Join us on Aug. 27 for this four-hour strenuous backcountry hike in the far reaches of Mark West Creek, a future regional park. You will learn about the natural and human history of this stunning property. Sign up.