Howarth Memorial Park

Recreation at the Park

Located in Santa Rosa, California, Howarth Memorial Park spans an impressive 138 acres and has rightfully earned its nickname as "The Jewel" of the city. This sprawling green space has activities for everyone, whether you're looking to get active or just enjoy a peaceful day outdoors.

At the heart of the park sits Lake Ralphine, a picturesque body of water that's ideal for a bit of aquatic adventure. During spring and summer, you can rent rowboats, paddleboats, kayaks, or canoes to glide across the water and soak in the scenery. If fishing is more your style, the lake is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, and rainbow trout - just bring your patience and maybe some good bait!

Family Attractions

Kids will find plenty to do here. The main "Land of Imagination" playground is thoughtfully divided for different age groups, featuring an Old West town and Native American village where little ones can let their imaginations run wild.

Scattered around the park, you'll come across multiple play areas with swings, a rock climbing wall, and accessible equipment designed for children of all abilities.

The park's K-Land amusement area features a miniature train ride and historic carousel. The animal barn offers up-close encounters with farm animals, and the pony rides are always a hit with younger visitors. These attractions operate seasonally and require tickets (most rides cost around $2 per person).

Outdoor Activities

Lacing up your hiking boots? The miles of trails winding through Howarth Park connect to neighboring Spring Lake Regional Park and Annadel State Park, creating an extensive network for exploration. With both paved and unpaved options, these paths accommodate everyone from casual walkers to dedicated joggers and cyclists.

The paved path circling Lake Ralphine offers particularly scenic views and great opportunities for wildlife spotting - keep your eyes peeled for the various bird species that call this area home.

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the well-maintained tennis courts, pickleball courts (lit for evening play), and softball field that provide plenty of options for friendly competition.

Picnic Areas and Community Events

When hunger strikes, numerous picnic spots scattered around the park provide perfect settings for outdoor meals. Many areas feature barbecue pits and shady trees, with some sites available for reservation and others offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Throughout the year, Howarth Memorial Park is a gathering place for community events and activities, bringing locals and visitors together in this beautiful outdoor setting.

Wildlife and Nature

The natural environment around Lake Ralphine buzzes with wildlife activity. You'll likely spot various waterfowl including ducks, geese, and if you're lucky, elegant egrets. Friendly (perhaps too friendly) squirrels are common throughout the park and clearly used to human neighbors.

If photography or birdwatching is your thing, you'll find endless subjects to capture. The interconnected trail systems let you experience diverse ecosystems, from tranquil lakeside environments to majestic oak woodlands, all within a single visit.