Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park
Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park lies nestled within the majestic woodlands of Napa County. This serene California state park, located just 22 miles east of Santa Rosa, contains an historic grist mill, one of only two water-powered mills still standing west of the Mississippi River.
Today visitors can tour this restored historic landmark, relax in one of the scenic picnic areas, and walk the nature trail that leads through the redwoods and into nearby Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.
Activities
Spend a couple of days in the heart of Napa Valley with a visit to both Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park and Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. Explore the historic mill and learn more about the early settlers and life here during the 19th century.
Take a walk through the woodlands on the scenic nature trail that leads into nearby Bothe Napa Valley State Park. On your way there you’ll pass the Pioneer Cemetery and an early church that was founded by these early settlers. Once you arrive inside Bothe-Napa Valley State Park check out their Visitor Center and Native American Garden. A guide for this beautiful garden is available inside the Visitor Center.
Interested in also spending a few nights inside this peaceful area? Bothe-Napa Valley State Park’s campground features campsites, yurts, and cabins. The campground also has a swimming pool!
Here are some of the activities that you can do during your visit to Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park:
Tour the Historic Mill at Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park
The historic mill inside Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park was originally built in 1846. At that time Dr. Edward Turner Bale owned the mill, having received a land grant from the Mexican government. The mill remained an important part of the Napa Valley settlement area from about 1850 until the early 1900s during which time locals would bring their wheat, corn, oats, and barley to be ground here.
Today this fully restored water powered grist mill is operated by the Napa Open Space District. Exhibits of late 1800 tools and millstones are on display inside the mill. Milling demonstrations and guided tours are available only on the weekends; community events are held onsite throughout the year.
Hiking at Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park
The 1.1 mile History Trail leads visitors on a journey from the Bale Mill inside Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park to picnic areas inside nearby Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. The trail passes Pioneer Cemetery, the final resting place of several early Napa Valley pioneers, and the historic White Church.
This scenic nature trail also winds through the woodlands, past shrubs, and along Mill Creek.
Birding at Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park
Bring your binoculars! On your walk between Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park and Bothe Napa Valley State Park you’ll have the opportunity to observe many species of birds. Here are a few to look out for: Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons, Pileated Woodpeckers, California Scrub-Jays, Cackling Geese, Cinnamon Teals, and Northern Shovelers.
Nature and Wildlife at Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park
Majestic redwoods, oaks, and pines offer some protection from the elements as well as providing habitat for a variety of wildlife. During your visit to this peaceful area you may see deer, foxes, snakes, lizards, banana slugs, raccoons, mountain lions, coyotes, and bobcats.
Pets
Pets are only allowed within designated areas at Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park. Dogs are not permitted inside park buildings, on nature trails, backcountry areas, or in the historic gardens.
Camping
Since Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park features day use areas only visitors interested in taking a look at Bothe Napa Valley State Park’s overnight accommodations. This nearby state park, located at 3801 St. Helena Highway in Calistoga, features campsites, yurts, and cabins, all nestled within the shaded redwoods. The park also has a seasonal swimming pool and 10 miles of nature trails.
The campground at Bothe Napa Valley State Park includes 45 spacious campsites for tents or RVs (no hookups), one group camping area, 9 primitive hike-in campsites, 10 furnished yurts available in 2 different sizes, and private cabins with bathrooms and full sized kitchens.
Park Location
Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park 3369 St Helena Hwy St Helena, CA 94574 Phone: 707.963.2236
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park:
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation to visit California state parks?
Many popular California state parks, especially coastal and desert parks like Anza-Borrego and Crystal Cove, now require day-use reservations on weekends and holidays. Check the park website or ReserveCalifornia.com before your visit.
How much does it cost to enter a California state park?
Most California state parks charge a day-use parking fee of $10 per vehicle. An annual parks pass costs $125 and covers unlimited vehicle entry to all state parks.
Are dogs allowed in California state parks?
Dogs are allowed in campgrounds and on paved roads in most California state parks, but they are generally not permitted on trails or beaches. Service animals are always welcome. Check specific park rules before bringing your pet.
What is the best time of year to visit California state parks?
Coastal parks are best from spring through fall, desert parks from October through April, and mountain parks from June through October. Spring brings wildflower super blooms, and fall offers fewer crowds with pleasant weather.
Explore More California State Parks
Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park is one of many outstanding state parks in California. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in California guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
