Nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, California, in the charming town of Glen Ellen, lies a treasure trove of literary history and natural beauty: Jack London State Historic Park. This sprawling estate, encompassing nearly 1,400 acres, was once the beloved home and working ranch of Jack London, the celebrated author of "The Call of the Wild" and "White Fang," and his spirited wife, Charmian London. From 1911 until his untimely death in 1916, London poured his heart and soul into this land, creating a haven that continues to captivate visitors today.
Designated a state park in 1960 and further honored as a National Historic Landmark in 1962, Jack London State Historic Park offers a unique glimpse into the life and times of a literary giant. The park’s landscape is a diverse tapestry, weaving together the historic cottage where London penned some of his most famous works, a museum brimming with the couple’s personal artifacts, the poignant ruins of his ambitious but ill-fated Wolf House, their final resting place, and over 30 miles of scenic hiking trails that wind through redwood forests, oak-studded meadows, and even the remnants of a once-thriving winery.
Before London’s arrival, this land held deep significance for the Graton Rancheria and Me-Wuk (Coast Miwok) tribes, who stewarded it for generations, according to Native Land Digital. Their history and connection to the land add another layer of depth to the park’s rich story.
The park’s allure shifts with the seasons. Spring bursts forth with a vibrant display of wildflowers, painting the woods and grasslands in a kaleidoscope of colors. Autumn transforms the landscape into a fiery spectacle, as black oaks and bigleaf maples don their autumnal hues. Summer can bring scorching temperatures, sometimes exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, but many of the trails are shaded, offering respite from the sun. During wet years, the park comes alive with seasonal waterfalls and overflowing streams, although hiking conditions can become muddy.
This complete guide is designed to help you plan your visit to Jack London State Historic Park, providing information about the historic sites associated with London, the various activities and tours available, and recommendations for the best hiking trails to explore.
Things to See: A Journey Through Literary History
The primary attraction of Jack London State Historic Park is undoubtedly its rich literary heritage. Here are some must-see stops within the park:
House of Happy Walls Museum
Following Jack London’s death, his widow, Charmian, and stepsister, Eliza Shepard, embarked on a project to build this stunning Arts and Crafts-style house. Charmian resided here from 1935 until 1952, and it now serves as a museum dedicated to the Londons’ lives and legacies. The museum is filled with a fascinating collection of the author’s books, the couple’s personal belongings, and souvenirs gathered from their extensive travels around the world.
Interactive exhibits bring the Londons’ story to life, exploring their relationship, careers, and the impact they had on the world. Charmian’s meticulously preserved closet offers a glimpse into her personal style, while the adorable retro kitchen evokes a sense of domesticity from a bygone era. On weekends, members of the Piano Club serenade visitors with melodies played on her 1901 Steinway grand piano. A small bookstore offers a selection of books and souvenirs for those looking to take a piece of the park home with them.
London’s Cottage
Built in the 1860s, this unassuming wood-framed cottage was purchased by London in 1911 and became his and Charmian’s primary residence. Within these walls, London penned many of his later stories and novels, while Charmian played the crucial role of editor and typist in her office. It was on the enclosed porch of this very cottage that London passed away in 1916.
In 2006, the cottage and its detached stone kitchen/dining room underwent a meticulous restoration, returning them to their former glory. The rooms have been refurnished with the Londons’ personal belongings, photographs, paintings, and period-specific pieces, offering a captivating glimpse into their daily lives.
Beauty Ranch
Driven by a vision of sustainable agriculture, London began acquiring ranches on Sonoma Mountain in 1905. He aimed to create a self-sufficient farm, growing crops, cultivating vineyards, and raising livestock. London was ahead of his time, implementing innovative techniques such as crop rotation, cover crops, and green manure. He even collaborated with renowned horticulturist Luther Burbank on an experiment to cultivate spineless cactus as a source of animal feed.
While much of the original ranch has faded, remnants of London’s agricultural endeavors still remain. Visitors can see the Pig Palace, designed by the author himself, along with barns, the concrete block silos (the first of their kind west of the Mississippi), and the atmospheric ruins of the Kohler and Frohling winery.
Wolf House Ruins
In 1911, London embarked on the ambitious project of building his dream home, a sprawling 15,000-square-foot mansion he called Wolf House. Tragically, just two years later, as construction neared completion, disaster struck. A devastating fire, believed to have been caused by the spontaneous combustion of linseed oil-soaked rags, engulfed the mansion, leaving only the imposing masonry and stone walls standing. Charmian later wrote that Jack London never fully recovered from the loss of his dream home.
The ruins of Wolf House are a poignant reminder of London’s ambition and the fragility of life. Exploring the skeletal remains of this once-grand structure evokes a sense of both awe and sorrow.
Gravesite
In accordance with his wishes, Jack London’s ashes were laid to rest beneath a simple rock taken from his beloved Wolf House project, on the same knoll where two pioneer children were buried. When Charmian passed away in 1955, her ashes joined her husband’s under the same rock, uniting them in their final resting place.
The gravesite is a quiet and contemplative spot, offering visitors a moment to pay their respects to the Londons and reflect on their enduring legacy.
The Lake
In 1914, London created a four-acre lake by damming the headwaters of Kohler Creek with a stone dam of his own design. His intentions were to use the lake for farming, recreation, and to combat hillside erosion. However, his neighbors were not pleased and took him to court in what became Northern California’s first water rights trial. London ultimately prevailed, securing his right to the water.
Although the floating walkway to the lake’s center, the bathhouse, and even the lake itself are no longer present – the area has evolved into more of an overgrown wetland – the dam still stands as a testament to London’s ingenuity and determination.
While all of these sites can be explored independently, it is highly recommended to participate in a docent-led tour for a more enriching and informative experience, especially at the Wolf House, where signage is limited. These tours are free of charge, do not require reservations, and are offered throughout the weekend. Private group tours can be arranged with at least 14 days’ notice. For those seeking a more comfortable experience, a premium tour is available for $30, which includes transportation between sites via golf cart.
Best Hikes & Trails: Exploring the Natural Beauty
Beyond its literary significance, Jack London State Historic Park is also a haven for nature enthusiasts. Over 30 miles of trails meander through the park, showcasing its diverse landscapes, including redwood groves, oak woodlands, coastal sequoias, maple forests, manzanita thickets, grassy meadows, and vineyards.
Keep an eye out for the native wildlife that calls the park home, including mountain lions, black-tailed deer, coyotes, bobcats, and a variety of birds and amphibians. Trail elevations range from 600 to 2,300 feet, offering a range of hiking experiences for all skill levels.
Horseback Riding: A Unique Perspective
For a truly memorable experience, consider exploring the park on horseback with Triple Creek Horse Outfit. Since 2003, this company has been leading guided rides through Jack London State Historic Park, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the land in a way that the adventurous Londons themselves often did.
A variety of tours are available, ranging from an hour-long ride past vineyards to London’s swimming lake to a longer excursion through redwood forests and open fields. One tour even includes lunch near an ancient redwood featured in an early "Star Wars" film. Reservations are required.
Broadway Under the Stars: A Night of Enchantment
Each summer, the Transcendence Theatre Company presents a spectacular musical theater concert series, "Broadway Under the Stars," in the atmospheric ruins of Beauty Ranch’s winery. Now in its 10th anniversary season, this event brings together Broadway professionals who sing and dance on what is arguably one of the most breathtaking stages in the country. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by pre-show picnicking, food truck sampling, and wine tasting.
Where to Stay Nearby: Comfortable Accommodations
While there are no overnight accommodations within Jack London State Historic Park itself, Sonoma County is renowned for its hospitality. The town of Glen Ellen offers several restaurants, shops, and lodging options, including the 22-room Jack London Lodge & Saloon. The Gaige House, a sophisticated boutique hotel, B&B, and traditional Japanese ryokan, offers a serene stay with deep granite soaking tubs, delivered breakfast, wine-and-cheese tastings, and yoga in a meditation hut. The Kenwood Inn & Spa, another Four Sisters Inn property, draws inspiration from Mediterranean design. In Santa Rosa, the recently renovated Flamingo Resort offers mid-century modern vibes and a family-friendly pool.
How to Get There: Reaching Your Destination
Jack London State Historic Park is located in Glen Ellen, approximately a 1.5-hour drive north of San Francisco and a 30-minute drive from Santa Rosa off of CA-12.
Accessibility: Ensuring an Inclusive Experience
Jack London State Historic Park strives to provide an accessible experience for all visitors. The walkway to the House of Happy Walls Museum and the main road to the Wolf House ruins are paved. Golf cart service around the main historic points can be scheduled on weekends from noon to 4 p.m. for visitors needing assistance.
A lift provides wheelchair access to the first floor of the House of Happy Walls Museum. Those unable to use the stairs to reach the second floor can view the exhibits via a 360-degree presentation available on mobile touchscreens and in a booklet. The bookstore manager can provide a table for easier viewing. The Cottage is also accessible by ramp. Accessible restrooms are located in the museum parking lot, ranch parking lot, and on the trail to the Wolf House ruins.
Tips for Your Visit: Making the Most of Your Trip
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike.
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly.
- Check the park’s website for current conditions and event schedules.
- Consider bringing a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
- Allow ample time to explore all the park has to offer.
- Respect the historic sites and natural environment.
