Framed by towering redwoods and two tranquil lakes, Riverfront Regional Park Picnic Area in Windsor combines shaded picnic sites, grills, and easy water access for unforgettable family outings. Just minutes from Sonoma wine country, this $7-entry park offers boating, trails, and peaceful views that make it a local favorite year-round.
Riverfront Regional Park spans 300 acres of natural beauty in the heart of Sonoma County, featuring Lake Benoist and Lake Wilson—two man-made lakes stocked for fishing and ideal for non-motorized boating. The picnic area itself provides well-maintained tables under redwood canopy, making it exceptionally comfortable even on warm days. Managed by Sonoma County Regional Parks, the site welcomes families, groups, and casual visitors with clean facilities and plenty of space to spread out. Many call it one of the best picnic destinations in wine country thanks to its blend of forest serenity and lakefront recreation.
Whether launching kayaks, casting a line, strolling wooded trails, or simply grilling under the trees, the park delivers relaxed outdoor enjoyment. Large group shelters are available for reservation, while individual tables operate first-come, first-served—perfect for spontaneous family days.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 7821 Eastside Rd, Windsor, CA 95492 |
| Phone | (707) 539-8092 |
| Hours of Operation | Year-round, 7:00 AM to sunset |
| Key Facilities | Picnic tables, grills, restrooms, drinking fountains, parking lots, trash receptacles |
| Entry Fee | $7 per vehicle (Sonoma County residents may qualify for discounts) |
| Rules | Pack out all trash; leashed pets only; group shelters require reservation |
Create lasting memories with this easy, enjoyable schedule:
Evening Before: Prepare your picnic the night before—pack sandwiches, salads, fruit, drinks, grilling items, charcoal, cooler, blankets, sunscreen, and lake toys. Load everything into the spacious cargo area of your Tara Roadster 2+2 for a hassle-free morning departure.
10:00 AM – Arrival & Setup
Enter at 7821 Eastside Road and pay the $7 fee. Park and choose a lakeside table or grassy spot (first-come, first-served). For larger groups, reserve a shelter in advance via phone or online. Spread blankets, set up chairs, and claim your perfect shaded site under the redwoods.
10:30 AM – Lakeside Exploration
Stroll the gentle trails around Lake Benoist and Lake Wilson. Kids love spotting ducks, turtles, and fish while breathing in redwood-scented air. Rent canoes, kayaks, or rowboats onsite ($20–$50/hour, life jackets provided) for a fun family paddle across calm waters.
12:30 PM – Picnic Lunch & Grilling
Fire up the grills for burgers, hot dogs, veggies, or corn. Complement with easy sides like fruit platters, chips, and cold drinks. For lighter meals, unpack pre-made wraps and salads. Enjoy your feast with lake views, redwood shade, and gentle breezes—the ultimate Sonoma picnic setting.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Lake Activities
Continue boating, try catch-and-release fishing, or play frisbee on open grass. Follow short, family-friendly sections of the 9-mile trail system for more redwood immersion. Younger kids can splash in shallow areas (supervised) or relax on blankets.
4:30 PM – Snacks & Downtime
Break out fruit, cookies, or ice cream treats. Capture family photos against towering trees and sparkling water. Bring binoculars for birdwatching or simply enjoy quiet moments together.
6:00 PM – Sunset & Departure
Lakeside sunsets over the water are magical. Find your spot, watch the sky glow, and wrap up the day with warm memories. Pack thoroughly, take trash with you, and head home by sunset.
Riverfront Regional Park Picnic Area blends redwood grandeur, peaceful lakes, and family-friendly amenities for Sonoma County's most rewarding outdoor escape—made even easier with the generous storage and comfort of the Tara Roadster 2+2.
