The California State Parks Foundation recently announced the winners in its second annual “Best of California’s State Parks” poll, where thousands voted on their favorite state park across 12 categories. Among the dozen winners, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park in Kenwood won “Best California State Park for a Hidden Gem Experience.”
The foundation stated voters’ reasons for choosing Sugarloaf Ridge included its “diverse trails, wildflowers, waterfalls, and sweeping ridgelines, along with unique offerings like an onsite observatory and community-led programs.”
“Quiet, scenic, and full of discovery, it’s a place that feels both remote and welcoming, perfect for those looking to explore beyond the well-known parks,” the foundation stated.
Honorable mentions in the “hidden gem” category include Bodie State Historic Park in Bridgeport and China Camp State Park in San Rafael. Sugarloaf Ridge also received an honorable mention in the “Best California State Park for Wildflowers” category.
Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen — the only other Sonoma County park on the list — earned honorable mentions in three categories: Best for hiking, best for day trips and best for learning about history.
Sugarloaf Ridge: Best State Park Hidden Gem
Nestled off Highway 12, just south of Santa Rosa’s Hood Mountain Regional Park and a few miles east of downtown Kenwood, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park offers 4,900 acres of pristine natural wonder.
Over 25 miles of hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails wind through majestic redwoods and wildflower-studded meadows. Trails suit all ages and abilities, including the half-mile Nature Trail, which is ADA accessible with ADA parking at each end. Check the park’s calendar for themed guided hikes and educational outdoor events, such as wilderness first-aid courses and forest bathing walks.
The park’s 25-foot Sonoma Creek Falls draws weekend crowds who enjoy the refreshing results of a wet winter and spring. The waterfall is surrounded by moss-coated boulders and towering redwoods, creating a serene nook to contemplate the natural beauty.
There is also plenty to do at the park after sunset. Its campground has 47 family-sized campsites, including two wheelchair-accessible sites and a group site for up to 50 people. It includes a bathhouse with showers and toilets. Regular campsites cost $35 per night; premium sites are $45. Glamping sites with furnished luxury canvas tents are $125 per night Sunday through Thursday and $150 per night Friday and Saturday.
The onsite Robert Ferguson Observatory offers public stargazing on select weekends throughout the year (the next Star Party will be at 8:30 p.m., May 16). Star Party guests can attend docent-led astronomy lectures and will have guided access to the observatory’s several telescopes. Tickets are $17 for adults, $12 for seniors, $10 for students, $6 for youth ages 6-10, and free for youth ages 5 and under.
2605 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood, 707-833-5712, sugarloafpark.org