Nagasawa Community Park

Park Overview

Nagasawa Community Park is a 33.23-acre green space located in Santa Rosa, California. The park is situated off Fountaingrove Parkway and offers a variety of natural features and recreational opportunities.

The park provides a peaceful outdoor space with ample parking that is rarely crowded, making it perfect for individuals and families seeking a quiet retreat. It's open daily from 6AM to 9PM.

Natural Features

The park includes diverse habitats such as a pond, forest, and chaparral areas. This mix of environments provides visitors with the opportunity to experience different aspects of local flora and fauna.

The park's lake is a focal point, offering opportunities for fishing and featuring a boat ramp for small watercraft such as kayaks and canoes. Bass fishing is popular here, though catches can be inconsistent.

During spring, the park becomes especially picturesque with wildflowers blooming throughout the area. Wildlife habitats abound, making it a good spot for nature observation.

Historical Significance

Nagasawa Community Park has an interesting historical background. The area was originally developed in the 1870s as the Brotherhood of the New Life, a Utopian community founded by Thomas Lake Harris.

By the early 1900s, Kanaya Nagasawa, one of the earliest Japanese immigrants to the United States, became the owner of 1,500 acres in the Fountaingrove area, which included vineyards and a winery. He was known for being a gracious host to many Japanese visitors.

The park was dedicated as Nagasawa Community Park at Fountain Grove in a public ceremony on July 28, 2007, honoring Nagasawa's legacy.

Recreation

The park offers several recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Walking paths allow exploration of the diverse landscape, though they are relatively short and don't completely encircle the lake.

The fishing area attracts many visitors hoping to catch bass and other fish. The boat ramp provides easy access for those bringing small watercraft to enjoy the lake.

Scattered throughout the park are picnic areas with benches that offer scenic views, perfect for a relaxing meal or simply sitting and enjoying nature. Some visitors find this a peaceful spot for meditation or relaxation.

Facilities

The park features a large parking lot that stretches from the metal entrance gate, winding down and then up a gentle slope.

A porta-potty is the only restroom facility available at the park, though some visitors recommend making alternative bathroom arrangements if possible.

The park neighbors a golf course, separated by a fence along one of the walking trails.