Fort Ross State Historic Park
Fort Ross State Historic Park is a unique historic site offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean along with a rich history of a Russian outpost settled in 1812. Visitors can explore reconstructed buildings, enjoy scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and a beautiful walk down to the ocean where seals can often be spotted. The park features wheelchair accessible amenities and is kid-friendly, blending history, nature, and coastal beauty for a memorable experience.
Reviews
A fascinating, early 19th century historical site where Russian, Alaska Native and local Indigenous histories coalesced among 120+ residents.
For wood carpentry enthusiast, the restored buildings are a beautiful testament to pre-mechanized, purely handcrafted woodwork.
Picnic tables and a beach on site, perfect for outdoor enjoyment as well.
A compact museum and easily digestible descriptions are informative, but not over-the-top in terms of information.
Highly suggested pit stop along Highway 1.
Breathtaking views of the Pacific. The drive there winds around the coast. The fort itself is enormous. The original buildings are there, and you can walk through all of it. If time alots take a docent tour.
Fort Ross was a highlight of our recent day trip from Bodega Bay. The drive along Highway 1 was breathtaking, with stunning coastal views and winding roads that made for an adventure in itself.
The fort itself is rich in history, offering a glimpse into the Russian settlement that once thrived along this stretch of California’s coast. Walking through the reconstructed buildings, including the chapel and wooden stockade, gave us a real sense of life in the early 1800s. The visitor center had excellent exhibits on Russian exploration, trade, and interactions with the local Kashia Pomo people.
One of our favorite parts was the beautiful walk down to the ocean. The trail winds through lush coastal terrain and opens up to a stunning view of the Pacific. We spotted seals lounging on the rocks and enjoyed the peaceful, rugged beauty of the shoreline. The weather was cool and breezy—perfect for exploring.
If you’re in the Bodega Bay area, Fort Ross is well worth the visit. It’s a great mix of history, nature, and incredible scenery, making for a memorable day trip.
Fort Ross is an incredibly unique and well-preserved historical site that offers a surprising look at a less-known chapter of California’s history – its time as a Russian outpost! Very cool place to visit
I had an amazing time exploring Fort Ross State Historic Park.
The fort stands atop the bluffs and filled with stunning ocean views. The park shows us an amazing history of a Russian outpost settled in 1812. I went on Saturday and there were role players in the fort. There are several trails through the area.