Stafford Lake Park

• 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.
• Hike the Terwilliger Nature Trail. View waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds. Bring your binoculars.
• Home to Stafford Lake Bike Park and an 18-hole disc golf course.
• This is one of the few places in the Bay Area with trees that turn beautiful fall colors.

• No swimming, boating, or floatables in the lake. It's a North Marin Water District reservoir.
• No dogs or other domestic animals allowed at Stafford Lake Park, except service animals per the Americans With Disabilities Act.

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.

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

• Golden Gate Highway and Transportation District
• Marin Transit Trip Planner

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

• $5 per passenger vehicle, up to 10 people

If you have a Marin County library card, you can check out a free library park pass from any Marin County Free Library.

The annual park pass provides access to all Marin County parks and facilities that charge an entrance or parking fee. The pass is valid for one year. For more information read the Annual Park Pass FAQ.

• General public: $95.00 per pass
• Seniors 65 and older: $42.00 per pass
• Disabled individuals: $42.00 per pass

You can also call (415) 473-6387, or visit the Parks office, Marin Civic Center, Room 260, San Rafael.

Groups of 20 or more participants, whether formally organized or not, must make an advance reservation. From October 16, 2019 to April 30, 2020 park group reservation fees are half off.

You can also call Parks reservations at (415) 473-6388, or visit the Parks office, Marin Civic Center, Room 260, San Rafael.

Bus Entry and Parking

• $68 at all times

• A valid parking permit must be displayed on the dashboard of parked vehicles at all times. Purchase a parking permit at the park pay station or buy an annual park pass.
• 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 more than 20 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 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.