Your Ultimate Guide to the State Parks of the Napa Valley

Whether you’re looking to hike a mountain or take a relaxing stroll while exploring wine country’s pioneering history, there’s something for you at one of the Napa Valley state parks. Visit ancient topography, beloved historical treasures, and one-of-a-kind natural destinations on your Napa Valley vacation. Here is your ultimate guide to the state parks of the Napa Valley.

Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park

For a journey back in time, visit the Bale Grist Mill Historic Park for a glimpse of the Napa Valley’s pioneering past. Visit the valley’s first church, the final resting place of famous Napa Valley pioneers at Pioneer Cemetery, and the 36-foot gristmill. The water-powered gristmill, now a historic landmark, was built in 1846 for early settlers to turn their corn and wheat into meal or flour. Stop by on a weekend for milling demonstrations and tours.

Bale Grist Mill is also featured in our Dog Friendly Hiking Trails of Napa Valley guide, as a fun place to bring your four-legged friend. No need to hop in a car to get to your next destination, you can take the short hike on the History Trail to the neighboring Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.

Bothe-Napa Valley State Park

If you’re looking for more recreation, visit the Bothe-Napa Valley State Park for year-round picnicking, swimming in the park’s spring-fed swimming pool, and over 10 miles of hiking trails among creek beds and evergreens (including the farthest inland coast redwoods in a California state park). Guests are even permitted to bring a bottle of wine to enjoy in the park’s shady day use area. After a day outside, hop on the Calistoga Shuttle from the Bothe Visitor’s Center to travel to downtown Calistoga to explore the historic hot springs town.

Robert Louis Stevenson State Park

The park gets its namesake from the author of Treasure Island and Kidnapped, who spent his honeymoon in 1880 on Mt. St. Helena within the park. The rocks that form the mountain are volcanic in origin, and erupted from a number of different volcanic centers between 2.6 and 8 million years ago. The vast Robert Louis Stevenson State Park spans three counties and offers distant views of Mt. Shasta, nearly 200 miles away. For an epic hike up Mt. St. Helena and to check out more stunning wine country summits, visit our Napa Valley hiking guide.

Retreat to the Wine Country Inn

All of these incredible state parks are in the upper valley, close to the charming town of St. Helena and the Wine Country Inn. After a long day trekking the Napa Valley’s beautiful landscape, put your feet up on a comfortable chaise and relax poolside at our full-size pool and bubbling whirlpool bath. Swim amongst the vineyards while enjoying picturesque valley views. Book your Napa Valley getaway today.