Guerneville is a quirky, vibrant small town in the heart of western Sonoma County, known for its towering redwoods, Russian River recreation, local businesses, and inclusive, welcoming community. Originally established in the 1850s as a logging town, Guerneville has evolved into one of Northern California’s most beloved vacation destinations, with its rustic, laid-back atmosphere, historic charm, and easy access to nature and Russian River Valley wineries.
Get some fresh, cool air in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, where scenic trails wind beneath ancient redwood trees, or head to the Russian River for some kayaking, swimming and tubing, or simply relaxing on Johnson’s Beach. Along Guerneville’s downtown drag, you’ll find funky and stylish boutiques, lively bars and farm-to-table restaurants, plus a popular taco truck in the Safeway parking lot.
While Guerneville’s cool summer temperatures, rustic cabins and riverside resorts have long attracted multigenerational families, it’s also popular for LGBTQ+ getaways. Signature annual events here include Lazy Bear Week and Women's Weekend Russian River, which draw visitors from across California and beyond.
Where to Stay
The Stavrand Russian River, Guerneville
Guerneville lodging ranges from boutique hotels and historic resorts to modern glamping, vacation rentals, and riverside camping. Stylish stays like boon hotel + spa offer a chic, adults-only retreat, while AutoCamp Sonoma pairs Airstream suites with elevated outdoor living. At Dawn Ranch, cabins and cottages unfold across riverfront grounds, while Highlands Resort and The Stavrand Russian River Valley blend relaxed luxury with Wine Country charm. For a classic summertime river experience, Johnson’s Beach Campground puts you steps from the water. Use our website to find Guerneville lodging that suits your needs.
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Things to Do
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, located in Guerneville, California
The best things to do in Guerneville center on nature, community, and locally owned businesses. Wander among ancient trees in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, then spend the afternoon kayaking, swimming, or tubing along the Russian River. You might explore nearby Russian River Valley wineries, enjoy some farm-to-table dining, browse eclectic downtown shops, and experience Guerneville’s welcoming LGBTQ+ scene, with signature annual events like Russian River Pride and Lazy Bear Week. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or mapping out 48 hours in Guerneville, this small, quirky western Sonoma County town offers cooler temperatures, a walkable downtown, and relaxed Wine Country charm.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor adventures are at the heart of Guerneville, where the Russian River and towering redwoods create a natural playground for all ages. The town’s main river access point, Johnson’s Beach, is a summer and fall favorite for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, tubing, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing; you can rent or buy all your recreation gear right here. Just minutes from downtown, Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve offers peaceful trails beneath ancient coast redwoods, including Colonel Armstrong, a massive tree that’s more than 1,400 years old. For more outdoor fun in Guerneville, be sure to see our guide to Russian River Valley: Redwoods.
LGBTQ+ Culture & Community
Gay Pride Parade in Guerneville, California
Guerneville has long been a sanctuary for the LGBTQ+ community, earning a reputation as one of Northern California’s most welcoming and inclusive getaways. Since the 1970s, LGBTQ+ travelers from the Bay Area and beyond have gathered here to relax, celebrate, and connect; this tradition continues today through supportive community partners and annual events that celebrate the spirit of Pride in Sonoma County. Annual happenings like Russian River Pride and Lazy Bear Week bring parades, pool parties and performances to town, as well as fundraisers honoring the area’s enduring spirit of belonging.
Local queer-owned businesses include The R3 Hotel, which proudly calls itself “The Fire Island of Wine Country,” and winery tasting room Equality Vines, which gives its Sonoma County wines politically progressive names and donates to organizations that champion equal rights. In Guerneville, authenticity is celebrated and everyone’s invited to feel at home.
Vineyards and Wine Tasting
Wine tasting in Guerneville can take you from town to country, all within a few miles. Guerneville is a gateway to the acclaimed Russian River Valley AVA, one of California’s most celebrated wine regions, known for cool-climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines. Just outside town, Korbel Champagne Cellars has been producing méthode champenoise sparkling wine since the early 1880s, long before France restricted the use of the word “champagne.” Nearby, the rustic-chic Porter-Bass Winery showcases small-lot, estate-grown wines with a focus on sustainability. In Downtown Guerneville, you can visit the Equality Vines tasting room to sample local vintages, or head to the bistro-style Trillium Winebar & Taproom to taste wines from around Sonoma County and the world.
Where to Eat
Nimble & Finn's Ice Cream, Guerneville Bank Club, located in the town of Guerneville, California
Guerneville’s favorite dining options include farm-to-table hotspot boon eat + drink, the casual, Southern-style Saucy Mama’s Jook Joint, and local hangout Stumptown Brewery, with its house-made beers, full pub menu, and patio overlooking the river. At Piknik Town Market, you can grab a freshly prepared picnic for a trip to the river, or stock up on gourmet snacks for your vacation rental. And for an anytime-is-a-good-time treat, head to Nimble & Finn’s Ice Cream, set in a historic bank building. Also, be sure not to miss the Guerneville Taco Truck, a local institution that parks at the local Safeway grocery store.
Local Guerneville Businesses
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Guerneville
Armstrong Woods Visitors Center
Guerneville
Austin Creek State Recreation Area
Guerneville
AutoCamp Sonoma
Guerneville
Baked on the River
Guerneville
Big Bertha’s
Guerneville
Bill’s Taxi Service
Guerneville
Blue Door Gallery
Guerneville
boon eat + drink
Guerneville
boon hotel + spa
Guerneville
boon hotel + spa
Guerneville
boon hotel + spa
Guerneville