4 National and State Parks Worth the Drive from Vacaville
Fall is here, and the weather is getting to be just right for outdoor adventures and exploration. It’s also a great time of year to enjoy seeing different varieties of wildlife, as they tend to be more on the move during the autumn months. Why not venture out into a state or national park and take advantage of the many activities and recreational opportunities available to you? Here are four of our favorites to help get you started.
San Pablo Bay
Established in 1974, this wildlife refuge is a place that protects migratory birds, endangered species, and wetland habitats. It occupies over 13,000 acres with tidal marshes that provide a wintering habitat for all types of waterfowl and other animals. There’s plenty to do and see when you visit San Pablo Bay, including hunting, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing tours, and trail hiking or biking. Certain locations allow hunting throughout the reserve beginning in September and continuing through early February. Designated bank fishing areas are along the bay and you can fish by boat too.
Olompali State Park
For more hiking trails and wildlife tours, visit Olompali State Park. This 700-acre facility overlooks the Petaluma River and San Pablo Bay and is home to a number of birds and mammals, including coyotes, foxes, mule deer, screech owls, woodpeckers, and eight types of nocturnal bats. Stop by the visitor’s center to learn more about the Olompali people before touring the grounds and viewing the adobe ruins and reconstructed Miwok kotchas, or dwellings. Enjoy the horseback riding and hiking trails and picnic areas when you spend the day here.
Putah Creek Wildlife Area
Hunters will enjoy visiting Putah Creek Wildlife Area during the fall and winter months, as it offers 673 acres of blue oak, chaparral, and cottonwood filled with deer, wild pigs, tree squirrels, rabbits, turkeys, and quail. In addition to hunting, the reserve also has a large fishing area as well as plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and bird watching. Choose from a number of hiking trails and explore the area while enjoying nature.
Sonoma State Historic Park
For a change of pace, visit Sonoma State Historic Park’s historical attractions in and around Sonoma’s Plaza. Tour several historical buildings like the Mission San Francisco Solano, Sonoma Barracks, and the servants’ quarters of La Casa Grande. Visit the historical exhibits around town and inside the museum to learn more about the area’s Franciscan history. There is a visitor’s center where you can find information to help you plan your day, and there is a variety of restaurants and shops in the Plaza as well.
Whether you’re an avid hunter, a history buff, a bird-watcher or a bicyclist, when you’re ready to get out into the cooler fall and winter weather, visit one of these state and national parks near Vacaville. You’ll find plenty to see and do, and through your exploration, you’ll learn more about the wildlife, habitats, and history of this beautiful part of California.
Image via Flickr by nickton licensed under CC BY 2.0
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