Just a hop and a skip north of Guerneville is Armstrong Redwoods Reserve, a primeval forest protected since the 1870s, when Colonel James Armstrong decided to preserve part of California's legendary redwood forests. Today, visitors benefit from Armstrong's foresight, as proven by the 310-foot tall Parson Jones Redwood and the 1400-year-old Colonel Armstrong Tree. The park covers some 800 acres, and much of it is accessible by trails that crisscross the park. A designated picnic area just off the main road features grills, tables, and restrooms.