Laguna de Santa Rosa

Located 75 miles north of San Francisco, the Laguna de Santa Rosa is a complex of wetlands known for its biological diversity. It is the largest area of wetlands in northern California and contributes significantly to Sonoma County's well-known biological diversity.

Windsor, Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Cotati, Forestville, and Sebastopol make up the communities that encompass the drainage area of this 254-square-mile watershed. The fourteen-mile channel of the Laguna exists as the largest tributary of the Russian River.

Laguna de Santa Rosa's unique ecosystem covers a 30,000-acre area that includes marshes, creeks, wetlands, forests, and grasslands. This complex of wetlands also houses numerous species of birds, mammals, fish, and amphibians. Furthermore, the Laguna provides a resting place for thousands of migrating birds as well as a permanent shelter.

Archeological findings indicate that the watershed area was home to Native American tribes up to 10,000 years ago, providing food, water, shelter, and other resources to these nomadic dwellers. In 1833, land grants awarded to Mexican settlers allowed for the agricultural use of the area which changed the landscape. Today the Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation works to protect this natural beauty.

While visiting the Laguna de Santa Rosa, tourists will be close to other attractions including canoe tours on the Russian River or farm life excursions.