Few visitors realize this 2,134-hectare (5,272-acre) park contains the ruins of the cabin where Robert Louis Stevenson wrote “The Silverado Squatters” during his 1880 honeymoon. This literary landmark offers some of the most spectacular hiking in California Wine Country, with trails leading to the summit of Mount St. Helena – the highest peak in the region at 1,323 m (4,343 ft).
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Robert Louis Stevenson State Park is located off Highway 29 between Calistoga and Middletown in California’s Napa Valley. The park entrance is approximately 11 km (7 miles) north of Calistoga, marked by a dirt parking lot on the east side of the highway.
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The park has no entrance fees, making it an affordable outdoor adventure. The parking lot is small and can fill quickly on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended. There are no facilities at the trailhead, so come prepared with water, snacks, and other essentials.
Best Time to Visit Robert Louis Stevenson State Park
The ideal time to visit is from May through October when temperatures are pleasant and trails are typically dry. Spring (April-May) brings wildflowers that carpet portions of the trail, while fall (September-October) offers comfortable hiking temperatures and clear views from the summit.
| Season | Temperature | Conditions | Recommendation |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 10-21°C (50-70°F) | Wildflowers, occasional rain | Highly Recommended |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 18-32°C (65-90°F) | Hot, dry, limited shade | Early morning hikes only |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 13-24°C (55-75°F) | Clear views, pleasant temperatures | Highly Recommended |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 4-13°C (40-55°F) | Occasional snow, muddy trails | Not Recommended |
Visitor Tip: Winter months (November-April) can bring snow to Mount St. Helena’s summit and make trails slippery. If visiting during winter, check weather conditions before your trip and bring appropriate gear.
Getting Around Locally
The park is primarily accessible by car, with the main trailhead located directly off Highway 29. Public transportation options are limited in this rural area, so having your own vehicle is highly recommended.
Local Transportation Options
- Personal vehicle (recommended)
- Rental car services available in Napa and Santa Rosa
- Limited taxi/rideshare availability in Calistoga
- Bicycle access (challenging due to narrow mountain roads)
Navigation Tips
- Download offline maps before your visit
- Cell service can be spotty on trails
- Bring a printed trail map as backup
- Park entrance is marked but easy to miss – watch for dirt parking area
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Where to Stay Near Robert Louis Stevenson State Park
While there’s no lodging or camping available within the park itself, nearby Calistoga and Middletown offer a range of accommodations from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options.
Luxury Options
- Calistoga Ranch (13 km/8 mi from park)
- Solage Resort & Spa (11 km/7 mi from park)
- Indian Springs Resort (10 km/6 mi from park)
Mid-Range Options
- Calistoga Inn (10 km/6 mi from park)
- UpValley Inn & Hot Springs (11 km/7 mi from park)
- Middletown Inn (16 km/10 mi from park)
Budget Options
- Bothe-Napa Valley State Park Camping (8 km/5 mi from park)
- Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort (10 km/6 mi from park)
- Calistoga Wine Way Inn (10 km/6 mi from park)
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Dining & Local Cuisine
While there are no dining options within the park, nearby Calistoga offers excellent restaurants featuring fresh, local ingredients from the Napa Valley region.
Recommended Restaurants
- Solbar – California cuisine with seasonal ingredients
- Sam’s Social Club – Casual American fare with outdoor seating
- Evangeline – French bistro with Creole influences
- Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery – Craft beers and pub food
- Cafe Sarafornia – Classic breakfast spot for pre-hike fuel
Picnic Supplies
For those planning to bring food to the park, these local shops offer excellent picnic supplies:
- Cal Mart – Gourmet grocery with deli counter
- Oakville Grocery – Historic market with prepared foods
- Calistoga Farmers Market – Saturday mornings (seasonal)
Important: There are no food services or potable water available at Robert Louis Stevenson State Park. Bring all necessary food and water for your visit. Pack out all trash as there are no garbage services at the park.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Robert Louis Stevenson State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities centered around its unique volcanic geology and literary history.
Mount St. Helena Trail
This 8.5 km (5.3 mi) one-way trail to the summit offers spectacular 360-degree views of Napa, Sonoma, and Lake Counties. On clear days, you can see the Pacific Ocean, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and even Mount Shasta and Mount Lassen in the distance.
Table Rock & Palisades Trail
This southern trail leads to unique volcanic rock formations and offers views of the Palisades – dramatic volcanic cliffs that showcase the region’s geological history. The trail connects to the Oat Hill Mine Trail, which leads to the outskirts of Calistoga.
Stevenson Memorial
A short trail leads to a marble monument marking the site of the abandoned bunkhouse where Robert Louis Stevenson and his bride spent their honeymoon in 1880. This experience inspired his travel memoir “The Silverado Squatters.”
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Cultural Connections & Literary History
The park’s literary significance stems from Robert Louis Stevenson’s stay in an abandoned mining cabin on the property during his 1880 honeymoon with Fanny Vandegrift Osbourne.
Literary Significance
Stevenson’s experiences here inspired his travel memoir “The Silverado Squatters,” and Mount St. Helena is thought to have influenced the portrayal of Spyglass Hill in his famous novel “Treasure Island.” The park preserves this important connection to one of the 19th century’s most beloved authors.
Literary enthusiasts can visit the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum in nearby St. Helena to see the author’s personal belongings, manuscripts, and learn more about his life and works.
Local Cultural Events
- Stevenson Day – Celebrated annually in November
- Calistoga Lit Fest – Literary festival held in spring
- Guided Literary Hikes – Seasonal interpretive programs
- Napa Valley Writers’ Conference – Summer literary event
Outdoor Adventures & Natural Features
The park’s diverse ecosystems and unique geology make it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
With over 8 km (5 mi) of trails ranging from easy to strenuous, the park offers hiking opportunities for all skill levels. The main trails include the Mount St. Helena Trail, Table Rock Trail, and the Stevenson Memorial Trail.
Mountain Biking
Bicycles are allowed only on the road to the peak and on the Oat Hill Mine Trail, not on single-track trails. The Oat Hill Mine Trail offers a challenging ride with spectacular views.
Wildlife Viewing
The park is home to diverse wildlife including black-tailed deer, gray foxes, bobcats, and numerous bird species. Spring and early summer are ideal for wildflower viewing.
Geology Highlight: The park features unique volcanic formations that are part of the Sonoma Volcanics, formed between 2.6 and 8 million years ago. The Palisades and Table Rock showcase these dramatic geological features.
Safety, Etiquette & Park Rules
To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit while preserving the natural environment, please observe these important guidelines:
Safety Tips
- Bring plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person) – no potable water available
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction
- Apply sunscreen and wear sun protection (limited shade on trails)
- Check weather conditions before your visit
- Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time
- Carry a basic first aid kit and emergency supplies
- Be aware of wildlife including rattlesnakes and mountain lions
Park Rules
- No dogs allowed in the park
- No camping or overnight stays
- Park hours: Sunrise to sunset only
- No collection of rocks, plants, or other natural objects
- Pack out all trash (no garbage services)
- No fires or smoking
- Bicycles allowed only on designated roads, not single-track trails
- Stay on established trails to prevent erosion
Visitor Comments About Robert Louis Stevenson State Park
“The hike to Mount St. Helena summit is challenging but absolutely worth it. On a clear day, we could see all the way to San Francisco Bay and the Sierra Nevada mountains. One of the best views in Northern California!”
“We visited in April when the wildflowers were blooming along the Table Rock Trail. The volcanic formations are incredible, and the literary connection to Stevenson adds a unique dimension to the experience.”
“A hidden gem in wine country! While everyone else was touring vineyards, we enjoyed the solitude of these beautiful trails. Bring plenty of water and start early to avoid the afternoon heat.”
Practical Travel Tips
What to Bring
- Plenty of water (minimum 2 liters per person)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Layered clothing (temperatures can vary)
- Trail map (downloadable or printed)
- Snacks and/or picnic lunch
- Camera for scenic views
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Park Details
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset daily
- Fees: No entrance or parking fees
- Facilities: No restrooms or water available
- Parking: Limited dirt lot off Highway 29
- Contact: (707) 942-4575
- Pets: Not allowed in the park
- Cell Service: Limited/spotty coverage
Nearby Attractions
- Calistoga Hot Springs & Spas (10 km/6 mi)
- Old Faithful Geyser of California (11 km/7 mi)
- Petrified Forest (13 km/8 mi)
- Bothe-Napa Valley State Park (8 km/5 mi)
- Napa Valley Wine Train (24 km/15 mi)
- Safari West Wildlife Preserve (29 km/18 mi)
Complete Your California Adventure
Book your flights, accommodations, and rental car today to experience the natural beauty and literary history of Robert Louis Stevenson State Park.
Your Story Awaits Among Ancient Peaks
Robert Louis Stevenson State Park offers more than just hiking trails – it provides a connection to literary history and some of the most spectacular views in California Wine Country. Whether you’re following in the footsteps of a famous author, challenging yourself with the summit hike, or simply enjoying the unique volcanic landscapes, this park delivers an experience that combines natural beauty with cultural significance. Pack your water bottle, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare to write your own adventure among these historic peaks.
The above is subject to change.
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