Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

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. 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, busses will be asked to drop their visitors off in the front lot. There is a park and ride located in Guerneville across from Safeway. The Tallest Tree The Parson Jones Tree is the tallest tree in the grove, measuring more than 310 feet in height. This is longer than the length of a football field. An easy 0.1 mile walk from the park entrance. The Oldest Tree The Colonel Armstrong Tree is the oldest tree in the grove, estimated to be over 1,400 years old. It is named after a lumberman who chose to preserve this portion of the park in the 1870s. This magnificent tree is located within an easy half-mile walk from the park entrance. The Icicle Tree This tree shows the unusual burl formations often found on redwood trees. Burls can weigh many tons and grow hundreds of feet above the forest floor. Why these growths occur remains a mystery. The Discovery Trail This trail offers several Braille interpretive panels and a tree hugging platform. Pioneer Nature Trail This self-guided nature trail is an easy stroll through the grove and is also wheelchair accessible. Our volunteer trail guides may be available for larger groups through Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods.