At the Land Trust, our mission is to preserve the character of Napa by permanently protecting its land—including rare natural resources and extraordinary habitats. This mission is strengthened through deep partnerships with community members, local governments, and state agencies that help safeguard these places and expand access to them.
Since 1976, the Land Trust has been a steadfast guardian of Napa’s natural heritage. We’ve permanently protected 96,000 acres of land, representing 18% of Napa County. Our work includes conservation easements with private landowners and extensive collaborations with cities and agencies to secure land for public enjoyment. Thanks to these partnerships, over 28,000 acres of stunning open space are now preserved as public parks and recreational areas, ensuring that Napa’s natural beauty remains accessible to all.
Partnership Projects Open to the Public
We take pride in the following projects that highlight the success of our partnerships and the shared vision of creating open space for everyone:
Alston Park
158 acres of rolling hills in northwest Napa, this open-space park, owned by the City of Napa, became public in 1991. With three miles of trails, Alston Park is a haven for equestrians, mountain bikers, hikers, and dog walkers. The Land Trust holds a conservation easement on this park, ensuring its open space is preserved forever.
Berryessa Vista
Spanning 224 acres along the shores of Lake Berryessa, this area of oak forests, chaparral, and grasslands was generously donated to the Land Trust in 2003. It was later transferred to the Napa County Parks and Open Space District in 2008, where it now serves as a public park and recreation area, protected under a conservation easement.
Hunts Grove Park
A charming half-acre park in the City of St. Helena, Hunts Grove Park was transferred to the city to serve as a public green space for local residents.
Knoxville Wildlife Area
This vast 21,153-acre landscape of open space, wildlife habitat, and watershed lands was preserved through three transactions facilitated by the Land Trust between 2000 and 2008. Now managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, it offers seasonal hiking opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
Robert Louis Stevenson State Park Additions
Thanks to generous grants and donations, the Land Trust has helped expand this iconic park by over 1,710 acres. These additions include the establishment of the Palisades Trail and the reopening of the Oat Hill Mine Trail, both premier hiking destinations that showcase the breathtaking northern Napa Valley views.
Trancas Crossing Park
Located in north Napa, this 33-acre property was generously donated by Johnny Miller to the Land Trust. After placing a conservation easement to protect its natural resources, the land was transferred to the City of Napa to serve as a public park, and the northern terminus of the Napa River Trail.. Visitors can enjoy a scenic 0.9-mile paved loop along the Napa River and Salvador Creek, perfect for a peaceful walk or easy outdoor adventure. Along the way, you’ll find benches, picnic tables, wheelchair-accessible restrooms, and a van-accessible parking space. The trail is stroller-friendly and accommodates most mobility devices, though assistance may be needed on steeper sections.
Newell Open Space Preserve
Protected through a conservation easement by the Land Trust, the 642-acre Newell Open Space Preserve—donated by Jack and Bernice Newell and managed in partnership with the City of American Canyon—has welcomed the public since 2014 as a vital natural sanctuary and scenic retreat.
Join Us in Protecting Napa’s Future
The Land Trust is dedicated to continuing this legacy of preservation through collaboration. Our partnerships create a lasting impact, ensuring that Napa’s natural beauty and biodiversity are protected for generations to come.
Our work is made possible by the generous support of individuals like you. As a community-based nonprofit, we depend on donations—both big and small—to protect the land and legacy of Napa for generations to come. Your contribution is an investment in Napa’s future. Every dollar makes a difference in preserving the beauty and vitality of our community. Join us in making a lasting impact today.
One-timeDonation
Your one-time gift helps protect the land, water, and wildlife that make Napa County extraordinary. Every donation makes a difference—thank you for being part of this important work.
BECOME AMember
When you become a member of the Land Trust, you join a community committed to protecting the land, water, wildlife, and natural beauty of this extraordinary place. Your support helps us permanently safeguard open spaces, working lands, and critical habitats across Napa County.
Volunteers are essential to the daily work of the Land Trust. More than 100 dedicated individuals help lead hikes, monitor properties, care for preserves, and support fundraising efforts—playing a vital role in protecting Napa County’s natural resources.