John Muir National Historic Site

Known as the "Father of the National Parks Service," John Muir wore many hats: inventor, botanist, immigrant, writer, rancher, and co-founder of the Sierra Club. Just off Highway 4 in Martinez, CA, the John Muir National Historic Site now resides where John Muir and his family historically called home.

At this National Historic site patrons will find the Muir Mansion, completed in 1884, where John Muir lived and worked there for the last 24 years of his life. In addition, visitors can enjoy Mt. Wanda, a 326-acre oak grove that was part of the original 2600-acre Muir ranch and named after Muir's daughter. Today, rangers take visitors on tours through the oak trees to identify the local fauna. The museum at the National Historic Site features photography of John Muir and his family, specimens he collected, and belongings kept in his home.

The park is opened year round from Wednesdays through Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Anza Trail exhibit at the John Muir homestead opened recently and displays interactive activities and artwork depicting the peoples and culture of early California.

Located by car about 45 minutes northeast of Oakland International Airport, the John Muir National Historic Site is near to other area attractions: Shell Alumni Museum, Waterworld California, Pixiland Amusement Park, and Benicia Historical Museum.