Forest and ranchland formerly home to famed writer and adventurer Jack London
This National Historic Landmark is rich with storied gems, including author Jack London’s own cottage, where he crafted his widely beloved novels. The cottage is situated on the Beauty Ranch, a bohemian wonderland where London stretched his imagination and passion beyond literature, restoring lands as he experimented with his own early methods of sustainable farming. Many ancient and second-growth redwoods are found throughout the park, including a lovely grove near the House of Happy Walls Museum, which serves as a visitor center.
ACTIVITIES: Take a free docent-led tour of the Beauty Ranch or the stunning ruins of the Wolf House and Jack London’s gravesite; or venture out on a self-guided audio tour (external link). "Hike for Health" with one of the park's suggested regimens (external link). Hit the backcountry trails on foot, mountain bike or horseback. Reserve rollicking guided trail rides (for beginners and experienced equestrians) with Triple Creek Horse Outfit (external link). Enjoy several idyllic picnic areas: the Oak Grove picnic site or the Terrace picnic site near the London Cottage may be reserved for larger parties.
FEATURES ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES: An electric cart is available for visitors who need assistance to get to the Wolf House and the Cottage. On weekends from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m., request the cart at the House of Happy Walls Museum. For a weekday visit, make arrangements at least 24 hours in advance by calling (707) 938-5216. Only the first floor of the House of Happy Walls Museum is accessible by wheelchair lift. The Cottage is wheelchair accessible. There is an accessible portable restroom in the Ranch parking lot.
DOGS: Leashed dogs are welcome in the historic areas of the park but are not allowed inside the buildings or on backcountry trails.
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Amenities & Fees
$10 vehicle entry fee; $5 on bicycle or walk-in; $49 annual pass. Cottage entrance fees are $4 for adults, $2 for students (age 13 to 18) and seniors (age 62+), and free for children under 12.
What To Pack
- Safety: We want visitors to enjoy their experience safely. Simple actions can positively increase your outdoor experience. Such actions include taking water and snacks along with you, staying on designated trails, taking breaks, and letting people know where you are going and approximately what time you're coming back. For more outdoor safety tips, please visit www.parks.ca.gov/SafetyTips (external link).
- What To Bring: Layers of clothing. In the rainy season, pack warm hats, scarves, mittens and plenty of thick, fast-drying socks. And don't forget the raincoats and rain pants. Water, snacks a field guide, binoculars.
Additional Information
Visit the park page on California State Park's website (external link) or the park website at www.jacklondonpark.com (external link), call (707) 938-5216, or write to the park at 2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, CA 95442.