About Forestville
Forestville is located in the coastal region of Northern California in the heart of Sonoma County. Forestville's gently rolling hills are punctuated with stately redwoods, lush vineyards, and the majestic Russian River as it winds its way to the Pacific Ocean.
A quiet little community half an hour from the Pacific coast and about an hour north of the Golden Gate, Forestville retains a low-key family-oriented atmosphere. Longtime residents and new arrivals work together to constantly improve the quality of life for all. Surrounded by green hillsides, vineyards and forestlands to the Russian River, Forestville maintains its rural character and scenic beauty while allowing for a responsible level of growth.
Though Forestville is not an incorporated city, its friendly residents take pride in providing for the community's need.
An
outstanding Volunteer Fire Department protects the town. - The people own and operate the beautiful Forestville Youth Park, which is funded by an annual weekend barbecue and fair -- the largest annual social event in town.
- Forestville also boasts excellent schools with caring teachers and administrators.
- The Prime Timers is an active senior citizens group and travel club.
Recreation
Recreation includes fishing, canoeing, and water sports along the Russian River and its beaches.
- Forestville River Access/Mom's Beach. Maintained by Sonoma County Regional Parks. For more info, visit Sonoma County Regional Parks.
- Steelhead Beach Regional Park. Maintained by Sonoma County Regional Parks. For more info, visit Sonoma County Regional Parks.
- The newly completed West County Joe Radota Trail presents an excellent scenic bike and hiking trail extending from Santa Rosa to the trail's end in Forestville. For more info, visit Sonoma County Regional Parks.
Economic Base
Delightful restaurants abound, picturesque wineries and vineyards
surround Forestville, and the area is known for its agriculture and fresh
produce. Many residents commute to jobs in Santa Rosa and beyond. Most
Forestville businesses are locally owned and operated, and the active Chamber
of Commerce hosts monthly events and organizes projects to improve the town
and foster and inclusive sense of community.
History
Forestville has a fascinating history. General Vallejo sent his son-in-law, J.B.R. Cooper to settle the area and serve as a buffer against the Russians, who had settle Fort Ross. In 1883, Captain Cooper received a Spanish land grant and built California's first commercial power saw mill in Forestville. El Molino, the name of the High School and several area businesses, is Spanish for "the mill." Though the town was later named for a Mr. Forrester, its wooded surroundings make the name quite appropriate.
Photos © Vesta Copestakes and Stephen Lathrop (downtown)