Deer Island Preserve
A 154-acre preserve rising above the eastern edge of Novato.
Rangers Recommend
- No longer a true island, the preserve was once part of the extensive wetlands of the Petaluma River delta.
- Neighborhood visitors hike, jog, or walk their dogs on the relatively level loop trail as a daily exercise routine.
- Historic remnants of an 1800s dairy farm still stand. Look for the weathered outbuildings.
- Dogs welcome, but must be leashed at all times.
Naturalist Notes
- True to its name, the preserve shelters thriving herds of deer.
- Enjoy a wide variety of native oaks, including coast live oak, blue oak, black oak, and white oak. Squirrels feast on the acorns.
- Red-shouldered hawks and white-tailed kites nest here. So do barn owls and great-horned owls.
- Surrounding marshlands and Novato Creek attract snowy egrets, great egrets, and white pelicans. The woodlands are home to woodpeckers, owls, juncos, and towhees.
- In spring, grasslands come alive with wildflowers, including ground iris and yellow mariposa lilies.
- Check out the iNaturalist field guide [External]. Add your own observations.
Activities
Know Before You Go
- Stay on roads and trails to preserve sensitive ecosystems and to avoid trespassing on private property.
- Be courteous and safety conscious when sharing roads and trails. Go slow and say hello [External].
- Dress appropriately for the weather. Trails can be muddy during rainy season.
- Bring water.
- There are no restrooms at this location.
- Steer clear of poison oak.
- After an outing, check for ticks.
Preserve Map
Download Preserve Map
Hours
Open 24 hours
Related Info
Calendar
See all upcoming Parks events.