Located between Bodega Bay and Fort Bragg is one of the most fascinating state parks in all of California. Set amid a pristine and stunning landscape, Fort Ross is utterly beautiful. It honestly looks like it could be a set for a movie set in Medieval Times! There’s something truly awe-inspiring about strolling through this park and soaking up all the history that lurks here. This place is a must-visit for all Northern Californians who have a love for the most historic and beautiful places that our state has to offer. Keep scrolling for more information.
Fort Ross State Historic Park is a popular attraction along Northern California's coastline. You'll definitely want to add this to your bucket list if you haven't been yet. Not only is it visually stunning, but there's some amazing history hiding here as well.
The 3,400-acre park is staggering and offers a unique glimpse into what a historic Russian-era fort compound looks like. People who visit the park don't just note the fascinating history behind this place, but the surprisingly serene atmosphere that the park boasts as well.
The park is an eerily accurate reconstruction of the fort that was built here by a group of Russians and Alaskans in 1812. It was considered the southernmost outpost for the Russians in the 19th century.
The fort was constructed as a base to hunt sea otters and grow crops for the Russian settlements located in Alaska. It was occupied until the 1840s, when the Russians finally left because the sea otter population had significantly dwindled.
Although the original buildings were deconstructed and sold off during the Gold Rush era, the park is a pretty good representation of what the original looked like. Although it may not technically be medieval times, strolling through the historic compound certainly makes you feel like you've been transported to a different era.
You can even go into several of the structures which have been decorated to look like they are straight out of the 19th century. It almost feels like you're intruding on somebody's real living quarters.
There are several historical exhibits that are full of old artifacts from the fort's heyday. Docent-led tours of the park are provided in which you can learn all about the history behind this amazing place.
One of the most fascinating structures is the old Russian Orthodox Chapel. The chapel has been reconstructed many times over the last century, most recently in 1973. However, this building is absolutely beautiful. It even hold services a handful of times throughout the year.
There is plenty to explore in the area after you've had your fill of history. Take a walk around the bluffs and keep an eye out for the many marine animals that call this place home. Even when the area is shrouded in fog, this region of the coast is absolutely breathtaking.
If you're wondering about the best time to visit the park, we suggest considering the weekend of their annual Fort Ross Festival! This year it takes place on July 28th. This awesome celebration focuses on the diversity of cultures that have called Fort Ross home over the centuries.
During the celebration there are historical reenactments, hands-on crafts, horse and buggy rides, music, dance, food, and lots more. It's definitely not to be missed.
