Stafford Lake Park

139-acre Stafford Lake Park is a great place for group picnics, outdoor games, shore fishing, or a sunset stroll.

Rangers Recommend

Enjoy scenic views of Stafford Lake, three miles west of downtown Novato.
Fish from the shore for catfish, bluegill, and bass. Anglers over age 16 need a fishing license [External].
Hike the Terwilliger Nature Trail. View waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds. Bring your binoculars.
Home to Stafford Lake Bike Park. Visit the Bike Park web page for more information and bike park rules.
Features an 18-hole disc golf course.
This is one of the few places in the Bay Area with trees that turn beautiful fall colors.

Activities

Bike

Fish

Hike

Kids Playground

Amenities

BBQs, Benches, Drinking Fountains, Group Picnic Areas, Lawn / Turf, Parking, Playground, Restroom

Know Before You Go

No swimming, boating, or floatables in the lake. It's a North Marin Water District reservoir.
Groups of more than 20 people must make an advance reservation. Learn more about group reservations.
No dogs or other domestic animals allowed at Stafford Lake Park, except service animals per the Americans With Disabilities Act.

This regional park is conveniently located three miles west of downtown Novato.

Tab 2 Content

Directions

From Hwy 101 in Novato, take exit 463 for San Marin Dr west 2.9 miles. Turn right onto Novato Blvd and follow for 2.6 miles. The park is on the left.

Parking

Ample paved parking is available at various locations throughout the park.

Public Transit

You can also dial 511 to find out about transit options from your location.

Map

Enter your location

38.11618953575978

-122.6497593070479

Please observe park rules to make your visit safe and enjoyable.

Tab 3 Content

No dogs allowed, with the exception of dogs trained and used as service animals, as defined by the American with Disabilities Act.
Keep the park clean and litter-free. Use garbage cans provided, and carry out all your belongings.
Keep the park peaceful. Loud noise and amplified music are not allowed.
No smoking, campstoves, and campfires. Fires are only allowed within designated BBQ pits.
No firearms or weapons of any kind.
No operating or landing aircraft of any kind, including drones.
No camping or overnight stays.
Groups of 20 or more people must make an advance reservation. Learn more about group reservations.
Some park locations may require permits for commercial use, including tours, classes, camps, film, or photography. Learn about permit applications.
Fishing is allowed subject to regulations of California Fish and Game, California Department of Fish and Wildlife , and Marin County Parks. Valid fishing license [External] is required. No live bait.
Swimming, wading, bathing, boating, and washing are not allowed in any water or waterways within the park.
Do not follow, approach, or feed wildlife.

In an emergency, call 911. To report an incident use this online form.

Always listen to Parks staff. Rule violations can result in citation and fines. Read the official Parks regulations: Marin County Municipal Code Title 10.

Call (415) 473-6387 for more information regarding allowable types and use of mobility devices for people with qualified disabilities.

Location

3549 Novato Blvd, Novato, CA

Hours

Spring 2026 | Mar 8–May 22
7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Summer 2026 | May 23-Sep 7
7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Fall 2026 | Sep 8-Nov 1
7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Winter 2026-27 | Nov 2–Mar 7
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Related Info

Reservations and Permits

Rules and Regulations

Report an Incident

Calendar

See all upcoming Parks events.