Lake Ralphine was created in 1952 by the damming of a creek to provide a water source for the city.
The miniature train at Howarth Park operates on a track that circles a portion of the park's central meadow.
The park is situated at the northern terminus of the Santa Rosa Creek Trail system.
The animal barnyard area houses seasonal farm animals specifically for public interaction and education.
The park land was largely donated to the city by the Howarth family, after whom the site is named.
Lake Ralphine is a designated site for community fishing events and is regularly stocked by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Howarth Park is a 138-acre municipal recreation area in Santa Rosa featuring Lake Ralphine, a man-made reservoir used for boating and fishing. The park serves as a community hub with a miniature railroad, a carousel, and an animal barnyard. It features an extensive trail system connecting to the adjacent Spring Lake Regional Park. Recreational amenities include a softball field, tennis courts, and multiple playgrounds. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and supports non-motorized watercraft rentals. Various picnic sites are available throughout the park grounds, some of which require advanced reservations. The site functions as a key component of the Santa Rosa park system, designed specifically for multi-generational family use.
The arched wooden bridge overlooking the lake or the miniature train tracks during operation.
Bring a cooler to utilize the public picnic areas, as food options inside the park are limited to seasonal snack bars.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes to navigate the transition between paved paths and unpaved nature trails.
Check the official city website for current water quality status before planning any on-the-water activities.
Do not attempt to swim in Lake Ralphine, as swimming is prohibited due to water quality regulations.
Amusement rides and the miniature train typically operate on a seasonal schedule, often limited to weekends and holidays during the off-season and daily during summer months.
Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times, and visitors are required to pack out all trash to keep the lake area clean.
