OLOMPALI STATE HISTORIC PARK
The park overlooks the Petaluma River and San Pablo Bay from the east-facing slopes of 1,558 foot Mount Burdell.
The name "olompali" comes from the Miwok language and may be translated as "southern village" or "southern people." The Coast Miwok inhabited at least one site within the area of the present-day park continuously from as early as 6,000 BC, until the early 1850s.
Olompali contains "kitchen rock," a large boulder used as a mortar in which early people ground acorns and seeds into a fine flour for food preparation. Many women would gather near such grinding rocks to prepare food and socialize.
Olompali State Historic Park is located near El Cerrito, El Sobrante and Greenbrae
Olompali State Historic Park in California offers a variety of picnicking options for visitors. The park has several picnic tables available on a first-come, first-served basis where families and friends can enjoy meals amidst nature. There are also open spaces perfect for laying out blankets or setting up portable chairs to have an outdoor meal while enjoying the beautiful views of Mount Tamalpais and San Pablo Bay. However, there aren't any food services within the park so guests need to bring their own provisions including water as potable water is not guaranteed at all times.
The park has hiking and horseback riding trails and a shaded picnic area. Please be aware that no dogs or bikes are allowed on the park trails.
The park, located in California, offers a variety of birding options for enthusiasts. It is home to over 60 species of birds including raptors and songbirds which can be spotted throughout the year. The diverse habitats within the park such as oak woodlands, grasslands and riparian areas attract different types of birds making it an ideal spot for bird-watching activities. Visitors are advised to bring binoculars or spotting scopes along with field guides during their visit.
BBs / Inns
Close to Calistoga, Napa Valley and Lake County Vineyards, and Harbin Hot Springs in the Mayacama Mountains, and 2 hrs away from San Francisco or Sacramento. Backyard Garden Oasis is an exquisite respite for those wanting a nature-filled retreat surrounded by some of Californias most beautiful country.
43.5 miles from park*
The park is located three miles north of Novato on U.S. 101. The entrance is accessible only to southbound traffic from Highway 101.
Northbound vehicles should continue north past the park and make a safe U-Turn in order to travel south and enter the park.
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