Do you know the story behind the name of the Russian River? You might have guessed that this famous got its name from something related to Russia, and you’d be right! But we bet most Californians don’t know the whole story of how this famous Northern California river got its name.

In the early 1800s, Northern California became a focal point for both Spanish and Russian expeditions.
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In 1812, a Russian trading ship called “Juno” sailed into what is today called Bodega Bay. The Russians on board established Fort Ross, located in modern-day Jenner, as a trading post for the Russian American Company.
As the Russians, stationed at Fort Ross, traded in the area, they named the local river, "Rossiyskaya," meaning "Russian" in the Russian language.
Alexander Gallego/Google Images
They also called the river the Slavianka River, which means “Slav woman,” adding another layer to the history of this river. Later, English-speaking settlers changed it to, “Russian River.”
The Russian River’s name is a reminder of how settlers from all over the world contributed to today’s California.
Jeffrey Magner/Google Images
And before settlers arrived, the Pomo, Miwok, and Wappo tribes had names for this river including, “water to the east” and “east water place.”

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The beautiful Russian River in Sonoma and Mendocino Counties offers visitors respite from the hot NorCal summers.
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Visitors can spend the day relaxing on the river’s shore. There are many spots along the Russian River that are completely shaded by the surrounding forests.
Visitors to the Russian River can kayak, SUP, swim, or float down the river.
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The Russian River towns of Guerneville, Monte Rio, and Korbel are popular places for weekend getaways. With plenty of charming little restaurants and wineries, these river-front areas are a favorite with NorCal natives.
Whether you like to tent camp, stay in an RV, or rent a river-front cottage, there is a place for you along the Russian River.
Peter Wadlund/Google Images
Although our favorite time to visit the Russian River is in the summer, this area experiences a mild winter so consider taking a spring or fall trip here, too!

Now that you know how this famous river got its name, next time you visit this area consider driving to Fort Ross State Historic Park to learn more about early Russian settlers in California.

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