Jack London Historic Park
Category & Type :
Recreation > Historic ParkLocation :
Glen Ellen CAPhone :
707-938-5216Description
Jack London State Historic Park is a memorial to writer and adventurer Jack London, who made his home at the site from 1905 until his death in 1916. The park was once part of the famous writer’s Beauty Ranch.
The park contains the cottage residence where he wrote books, short stories, articles and letters while he oversaw various agricultural enterprises. After London’s death, his wife, Charmian, continued to live in the cottage until her death in 1955. It was her wish that the ranch be preserved in memory of Jack London and his work.
Facilities and Activities
House of Happy Walls
There is a museum in "The House of Happy Walls," which Mrs. London built in a redwood grove.
A ¾ mile walk takes visitors to a dam, lake, and bathhouse built by London. Other hikes lead up through fir and oak woodlands to views of the Valley of the Moon. Another trail leads to Jack London’s grave and to "Wolf House," London’s dream house, which was destroyed by fire in 1913.
Dogs are not allowed on backcountry trails. Dogs are allowed on a leash in the Historic Area only. Dogs are not permitted beyond the silos or inside the museum.
Bicycling and horseback riding are permitted on some trails. A summer horseback riding concession is available in the park. Reservations for horseback rides can be made through Triple Creek Horse Outfit by calling (707) 887-8700.
Camping is available at nearby Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Location/Directions
The historic park is at 2400 London Ranch Road in Glen Ellen, about 20 minutes north of Sonoma.
The park’s upper parking lot provides access to a picnic area, London’s cottage, stables, stone barns, silos and "pig palace."
Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.