River Beaches and Fishing Spots in Sonoma County

Swim, fish, or paddle along the scenic banks of the Russian River in Sonoma County. Dip a toe in to float, settle on the banks with a fishing pole, or take to the river in a kayak or canoe.

Discover Sonoma Wine Country and these Russian River beaches, picnic spots, and boat ramps where you can relax and enjoy life by the river.

Best Sonoma County Parks with River Access

Sonoma County’s Regional Parks offer some of the best places to access the river. Admission to these parks is often free or available for a nominal fee with parking, and dogs are allowed on leashes that are no longer than six feet. Check out these Sonoma County parks where you can hang out at the river.

Cloverdale River Park, Cloverdale

In the town of Cloverdale, you’ll find the largest public park on the Russian River, with easy access from either end of town. It offers a paved and fully accessible trail along the river, as well as seasonal fishing, picnic areas, and a boat launch for kayaks, canoes, and drift boats.

Cloverdale River Park: 31820 McCray Road, Cloverdale, California

Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach, Healdsburg

From July through Labor Day, a seasonal dam creates a calm swimming area here, where you’ll find a swimming area roped off for the kids, typically staffed with lifeguards. Shady picnic areas, lawns, a par course, and restrooms for a fun-filled day at the river.

Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach: 13839 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg, California

Riverfront Regional Park, Healdsburg/Windsor

This 300-acre protected park features several walking trails and two lakes for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The redwood forest at the entrance has a lovely group picnic area with a restroom, large barbecue, a horseshoe pit, and a volleyball net strung among the trees.

Riverfront Regional Park: 7821 Eastside Road, Healdsburg, California

Wohler Bridge, Forestville

Open October through mid-May, this pretty spot below the historic truss bridge is popular for recreational fishing. With your fishing permit, the boat launch is available for small craft. Dogs are allowed on leash.

Wohler Bridge: 9765 Wohler Road, Forestville, California

Steelhead Beach, Forestville

This beach area is excellent for picnicking, splashing, and seasonal fishing. There is access to a gated boat launch with a permit for small craft, such as drift boats, kayaks, and canoes, to enter the beautiful Russian River.

Steelhead Beach: 9000 River Road, Forestville, California

Sunset Beach River Park, Forestville

This river park is a summer destination for swimming and a year-round spot for fishing. From the parking area, a short, unpaved trail passes a picnic area and leads to a rocky beach with beautiful views of redwood forests and the Hacienda Bridge. Dogs are allowed on leash.

Sunset Beach River Park: 11060 River Road, Forestville, California

Forestville River Access, Forestville

Forestville River Access offers a parking area with a short trail that leads to a wide beach, locally known as “Mom’s Beach.” Here, the rocky shore is surrounded by a redwood forest. This is a great spot to sunbathe, fish, and watch paddlers head down the river. Dogs are allowed on leash.

Forestville River Access and “Mom’s Beach”: 10584 River Drive, Forestville, California

More Fishing Spots in Sonoma County

Jenner Visitors Center Boat Ramp, Jenner

The river access boat launch in this quaint coastal town is a favorite spot for fishing, putting in kayaks, and spotting sea lions and seals that return each season to this spot where the river empties into the sea.

Jenner Visitors Center Boat Ramp: 10451 CA-1, Jenner, California

Monte Rio Community Beach, Monte Rio

This seasonal river beach, located among redwood-covered hills, is ADA accessible. Inner tubes, umbrellas, chairs, and boat rentals are available along with canoes, paddleboards, and kayaks. You’ll typically find a concession stand stocked with snacks, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and built-in barbecues.

Monte Rio Community Beach: 20488 Highway 116, Monte Rio, California

Johnson’s Beach, Guerneville

In the charming and eclectic town of Guerneville, this quintessential summer destination offers a wide beach, a snack bar, and a roped-off kiddies’ pool. Rent inner tubes, canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, beach chairs, and shade umbrellas. There’s also a nearby campground with a BBQ area, laundry facilities, and vintage cabin options.

Johnson’s Beach: 16215 First St., Guerneville, California

More Details

For more information, check the Sonoma County Guide to Russian River Recreation. Find more Sonoma County canoe and kayak rentals, as well as guided tours.

Discover more scenic Sonoma County Beaches and protected parks to visit in Sonoma Wine Country.

Review Sonoma County’s safety tips for water activities. Together, we can protect and preserve the beauty and natural resources of Sonoma County for generations to come. Check out our page on Sustainable Travel, and look over the Leave No Trace Seven Principles.