Olompali State Historical Park Travel Guide – Accessibility, Amenities, Activities, and More!

Olompali State Historic Park sits just north of Novato in Marin County, California. This 700-acre park offers a unique glimpse into the area’s rich history spanning thousands of years.

You can explore ancient Coast Miwok villages, walk through a 19th-century ranch, and learn about the property’s counterculture commune days in the 1960s.

The park is open daily from 9am to 5pm. You’ll find hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center with exhibits about the park’s past.

As you wander the grounds, you’ll see the historic Burdell Mansion and gardens, which showcase the property’s ranching era.

While Olompali doesn’t offer lodging, it’s a great day trip option if you’re staying in nearby Napa or Sonoma. The park’s location makes it easy to combine with wine country visits. You can immerse yourself in nature and history at Olompali, then head to the vineyards for some relaxation.

Olompali State Historical Park Overview and Access

Olompali State Historical Park offers visitors a glimpse into California’s past. The park showcases diverse history and natural beauty, making it a unique destination in Marin County.

Quick Facts

• Location: 2 miles north of Novato, CA
• Size: 700 acres
• Established: 1977
• Open: Wednesday to Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM
• Entrance Fee: $8 per vehicle

The park features hiking trails, historic buildings, and a visitor center. It’s home to diverse wildlife and plant species. The name “Olompali” comes from the Coast Miwok language, meaning “southern village” or “southern people.”

Directions to Olompali State Historical Park

You’ll find the park easily accessible from Highway 101. Here’s how to get there:

1. Take Highway 101 north from San Francisco
2. Exit at Atherton Avenue in Novato
3. Turn left on Redwood Boulevard
4. Make a quick right onto San Antonio Road
5. Follow San Antonio Road for about 2 miles
6. The park entrance will be on your right

The drive takes about 30 minutes from San Rafael and 45 minutes from San Francisco.

Parking at Olompali State Historical Park

Parking is available near the main entrance. The lot has space for about 50 vehicles. It’s paved and well-maintained. Accessible parking spots are located closest to the visitor center.

Remember to display your parking pass on your dashboard. If the main lot is full, there’s overflow parking available along the park road.

Park Layout and Main Features

Olompali State Historical Park is rich in history and natural beauty. Here are some key areas to explore:

1. Visitor Center: Start your visit here for maps and information
2. Burdell Garden: A restored 19th-century formal garden
3. Burdell Mansion: Remnants of a grand 26-room home
4. Miwok Village: Reconstructed Coast Miwok structures
5. Ranch Complex: Historic barns and outbuildings
6. Hiking Trails: Miles of paths through oak woodlands and grasslands

The park offers stunning views of Mount Burdell and the Petaluma River Valley. You’ll find picnic areas near the main parking lot.

Pet Policies and Dog-Friendly Areas

Olompali State Historical Park has specific rules for pets:

• Dogs are allowed in the park but must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet
• Pets are welcome in picnic areas and campgrounds
• Dogs are not allowed on trails or in buildings
• Service animals are permitted throughout the park

Remember to clean up after your pet. Bring water and waste bags. The park doesn’t provide these items.

Activities and Amenities at Olompali State Historical Park

Olompali State Historical Park offers a variety of activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy. You can explore nature, learn about history, and relax in scenic surroundings.

Recreational Activities

The park provides several options for outdoor recreation. You can enjoy a peaceful picnic in designated areas with tables and shade. Birdwatching is popular, with diverse species inhabiting the park’s varied ecosystems. Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of subjects, from historic buildings to natural landscapes.

Wildlife viewing is another common activity. Keep an eye out for deer, rabbits, and various bird species. The park’s diverse habitats support a rich array of flora and fauna.

Walking and Hiking Trails

Olompali features several hiking trails for different skill levels. The main loop trail is about 2.5 miles long and offers scenic views of the surrounding area. It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

For a more challenging hike, you can take the trail to Mount Burdell’s summit. This 9-mile round trip rewards you with panoramic views of the Bay Area.

Remember to wear sturdy shoes and bring water, especially on warmer days. The trails are well-maintained but can be steep in some sections.

Seasonal Activities

Spring brings wildflower blooms, making it an ideal time for nature walks and photography. Summer offers warm weather perfect for picnics and longer hikes.

Fall provides cooler temperatures for comfortable hiking and beautiful foliage. Winter can be wet, but on clear days, you might enjoy crisp air and smaller crowds.

Check the park’s schedule for guided tours and educational programs. These often focus on the area’s rich Native American and early California history.

Accessibility Information

Olompali State Historical Park strives to be accessible to all visitors. The main picnic area and some historic buildings are wheelchair accessible.

A paved path leads to the Burdell Garden, allowing easier access for those with mobility challenges. However, most hiking trails are unpaved and may be difficult for wheelchair users.

Always check current conditions before your visit, as trail accessibility can change due to weather or maintenance. The park staff can provide up-to-date information on accessible areas and facilities.

Natural Environment and Conservation of Olompali State Historical Park

Olompali State Historical Park boasts a rich natural environment with diverse flora and fauna. The park’s location near San Pablo Bay and the Petaluma River creates unique ecosystems that change with the seasons.

Flora

The park’s vegetation is a mix of native and non-native species. You’ll find oak woodlands, grasslands, and riparian areas. Coast live oaks dominate the wooded areas, providing habitat for many animals. In spring, wildflowers carpet the meadows with vibrant colors.

The native plant garden showcases plants used by the Coast Miwok people. Here, you can see:

• California poppies
• Coyote brush
• Manzanita
• Soap root

These plants played important roles in Miwok daily life for food, medicine, and tools.

Fauna

Olompali’s diverse habitats support a wide range of wildlife. You might spot:

• Black-tailed deer
• Coyotes
• Raccoons
• Various bird species

Raptors like red-tailed hawks and turkey vultures soar above the park. In wetland areas near the Petaluma River, you could see herons and egrets wading in shallow waters.

The park is also home to smaller creatures like lizards, snakes, and butterflies. Keep an eye out for the California newt in damp areas during cooler months.

Seasonal Variations

The park’s landscape changes dramatically with the seasons. In winter, rains turn the grasslands green and fill seasonal streams. Spring brings an explosion of wildflowers, painting the hills with yellows, purples, and oranges.

Summer dries the landscape, turning grasses golden. This is a great time to hike to the top of Mount Burdell for sweeping views of San Francisco Bay. Fall brings cooler temperatures and the chance to see migrating birds stopping over on their journeys.

Conservation and Eco-Friendly Practices

The park actively works to preserve its natural environment. Efforts focus on removing invasive plant species and restoring native habitats. You can help by staying on marked trails and not disturbing plants or wildlife.

The park also promotes water conservation and uses drought-resistant plants in landscaped areas. Recycling bins are available throughout the park to reduce waste.

Educational programs teach visitors about the park’s ecosystems and the importance of conservation. By participating in these programs, you can learn how to be a better steward of the environment.

Cultural Significance and Visitor Tips for Olompali State Historical Park

Olompali State Historical Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The park’s history spans thousands of years, from ancient Miwok settlements to Spanish colonization and beyond.

History and Heritage of Olompali State Historical Park

Olompali’s history dates back over 8,000 years. The Coast Miwok people lived here for centuries, leaving behind artifacts like tools and an Elizabethan silver sixpence. In 1843, the last Miwok leader, Camilo Ynitia, received a land grant for Rancho Olompali.

The park saw many changes over time:

• 1846: Site of the Battle of Olompali during the Bear Flag Revolt
• 1850s: James Black buys the land
• 1863: Burdell family takes ownership
• 1967-1969: Home to The Chosen Family hippie commune

Today, you can explore these layers of history through guided tours and exhibits. The park’s adobe structures, built with traditional methods, offer a glimpse into early California life.

Local Events and Programs

Olompali State Historical Park hosts various events throughout the year. The Friends of Olompali, a volunteer group, organizes many of these activities.

Popular programs include:

• Native plant walks
• Coast Miwok cultural demonstrations
• Adobe brick-making workshops
• Stargazing nights

Check the park’s website or ask at the visitor center for upcoming events. These programs offer hands-on ways to learn about the park’s natural and cultural history.

Olompali State Historical Park in Popular Culture

The park has ties to 1960s counterculture. Members of famous bands like the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, and Janis Joplin visited the commune here. Some say Grace Slick wrote the song “White Rabbit” while staying at Olompali.

The park’s beauty has also made it a backdrop for films and photo shoots. Its mix of natural scenery and historic buildings creates a unique setting.

Photography Spots and Scenic Views

Olompali offers many great photo opportunities. Here are some top spots:

1. The old Burdell Mansion ruins
2. Views of Mount Burdell from the hiking trails
3. Spring wildflower meadows
4. Historic adobe buildings

For the best light, visit early morning or late afternoon. Remember to respect park rules and stay on designated paths while taking photos.

Park Rules and Safety Guidelines

To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit:

• Stay on marked trails
• Don’t remove plants, animals, or artifacts
• Keep dogs on leash and only on paved areas
• Bring water, especially on hot days
• Wear sturdy shoes for hiking

The park is open from 9am to 5pm daily. Plan to exit before closing time.

In case of emergency, contact park staff or call 911.

Remember, Olompali is a protected area. Help preserve its natural and cultural resources for future generations by following these guidelines.