Park Maps

The City of Arcata offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. Whether you want to walk, hike, bike, play basketball, soccer or softball/baseball or have a picnic and play on the playground, Arcata has a park for you. Consult the Parks and Playgrounds Map (PDF) for the location of playground nearest you and for a list of park features.

California's First Municipally-Owned Forest


The Arcata Community Forest, comprised of 793 acres of second growth redwood, was the first municipally-owned forest in California. You'll find 11 miles of trails for hiking, biking, running and horse-back riding in the Community Forest. The Community Forest Trails Map shows paved roads, dirt trails, and elevation gains. Camping is prohibited in all of Arcata’s timberlands. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leash at all times. Equestrians, please inquire at Environmental Services for the best forest access locations.

Innovative Wastewater Treatment Facility


The Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the City of Arcata’s innovative wastewater treatment facility. The sanctuary is 307 acres, and includes:
  • Brackish marsh
  • Freshwater marshes
  • Grassy uplands
  • Interpretive Center
  • Mudflats
  • Salt marsh
  • Tidal sloughs
  • Walking and biking paths, approximately 5 miles
By integrating conventional wastewater treatment with the natural processes of constructed wetlands, Arcata has succeeded in turning wastewater into a resource.


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