Roy's Redwoods Preserve is one of Marin County's most beautiful and accessible redwood destinations, offering visitors an old-growth forest experience in the San Geronimo Valley. The preserve covers about 293 acres and includes redwood groves, meadows, boardwalks, and hiking trails, all open daily from dawn to dusk with no admission fee.

Roy's Redwoods Preserve in San Geronimo Valley: Complete Visitor Guide

What Roy's Redwoods Preserve Is

Roy's Redwoods is an open space preserve managed by Marin County Parks and supported by conservation partners like One Tam. It is known for its immersive redwood grove, where visitors can walk among some of Marin's tallest coast redwoods in a quiet, natural setting.

The preserve is especially popular with hikers, families, photographers, and anyone looking for a peaceful alternative to more crowded redwood parks. It offers a mix of shaded forest and open terrain, so the experience feels varied even on a short visit.

History And Background

Roy's Redwoods has a deep local history. The land was once part of a ranch, later became a 1960s hippie commune, and was eventually protected from development before Marin County Open Space District purchased it in 1978.

The preserve is named for the Roy brothers, who received the property in the late 1800s after lending money to the previous owner. Over time, it became one of the first public preserves in the valley and has long been treasured by the San Geronimo community.

It also has a bit of pop-culture history: the preserve was used as a filming location for Caravan of Courage: An Ewok Adventure in the 1980s. That gives the forest a little extra appeal for movie fans as well as hikers.

Trails And Features

The preserve includes the Roy's Redwood Loop Trail, the Boardwalk Trail, and the Dickson Ridge Fire Road, along with shorter connectors and side trails. The main loop is a popular way to explore the grove, while the boardwalk provides an easier, more accessible route through the trees.

The David Hansen Trail, previously known as the Roy's Redwoods Nature Trail, is a short side loop that adds a small peak climb and a quiet detour through the forest. Trail descriptions note that the preserve offers a combination of shade, open sun, and meadow views, so visitors should be prepared for changing conditions along the route.

Hours

• Roy's Redwoods Preserve is located off Nicasio Valley Road near San Geronimo in Marin County. The trailhead is reached by turning onto Nicasio Valley Road from Sir Francis Drake Boulevard and continuing about half a mile to the gate area.

The preserve is open daily from dawn to dusk and does not charge an entrance fee. Parking is roadside near the trailhead rather than in a large formal lot, so arriving early is helpful if you want an easier time finding a spot.

What To Expect On A Visit

Roy's Redwoods feels quieter and less crowded than some of Marin's more famous redwood destinations. That makes it a strong choice for people who want a calm walk through large trees without the same level of tourist traffic.

The preserve is also family-friendly, with easy options for shorter walks and enough variety for a longer hike if you want it. Because the terrain includes sun exposure in some areas, you'll want water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.

Visitor Tips

Bring your own drinking water, since no water is available on site. A portable restroom is available near the trailhead, and some sources note accessible restroom facilities at the preserve.

Pets are not always allowed on all program walks, and some organized events restrict dogs except service animals, so it's wise to check the specific rules before bringing one. Also, be prepared for poison oak and ticks in some areas of the preserve.