Wanderlust World Wanderlust World The Russian River, in Sonoma County, California, is a popular outdoor destination.
The small towns that share the river and its valley, and those that sit where the river meets the sea, all have a laid-back charm that calls visitors there to relax and enjoy the scenery.
The Russian River is open for fishing year-round. You can fish for large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, striped bass, catfish, salmon, steelhead and shad. Check with a local bait-and-tackle shop for fishing regulations and limits for the area you are fishing. Also make sure to use only barbless hooks; nothing else is allowed on the river.
Tubing is popular on the river during the summer months. Rent tubes at the Napa Auto Parts store in Guerneville, Friday through Sunday.
The best time for a family canoe or kayak trip on the Russian River is from April through October. The river is lower during these months and flows more slowly, making it less dangerous. Experienced canoe or kayak enthusiasts can try the river between November and March, when the river level rises and the water becomes more treacherous.
Photography and bird-watching are excellent on the river and in the surrounding area. Herons, egrets and other water-loving birds often can be seen at the river's edge.
There are no shortage of scenic drives in the Russian River Valley either. One drive you may enjoy begins at the river in Guerneville and runs to the coast, along Highway 116, providing ever-changing scenery.
If you love towering redwoods, a drive through the Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve, just outside of Guerneville, is a favorite with visitors. Take Armstrong Woods Road in Guerneville to get to the park.
For a drive that will lead you to some of Sonoma's vineyards and wineries for a wine tasting tour, take the Westside Road wine trail in Healdsburg. There are several good wineries to choose from, and the scenery will make you never want to leave.
There are many campgrounds along the shoreline of the Russian River. Some are for tents only, others have RV spaces available. For campground information, see Resources. There also are lodges with housekeeping cabins, some with spa packages and some with top-notch restaurants attached. For lodging information, see Resources.
Many Russian River-area restaurants are known for using fresh local produce, cheeses, eggs and meats from Sonoma County farms and ranches. Some chefs even grow produce in their own gardens. Popular restaurants include: the River's End Restaurant in Jenner, the Seaweed Cafe in Bodega Bay and the Applewood Inn Bed and Breakfast in Guerneville.
Special events held in the Russian River area include: the Russian River Jazz & Blues Festival in September, the Russian River Rodeo in June and the Old Grove Festival at the Redwood Forest Theater in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, which usually is held in September. For more events, see Resources.