Guerneville, Census-designated place and gay village in Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California.
Guerneville sits along the Russian River surrounded by dense redwood forests and enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool winters. The town spreads across low-lying terrain shaped by the river and forest landscape.
The settlement began in the 1850s as Stumptown when the Guerne family built a sawmill and developed the area for timber operations. The place was later renamed to honor businessman George Guerne.
The town became a retreat for LGBTQ+ visitors starting in the 1970s when local business owners developed the area as a weekend destination. This history continues to shape the welcoming character of the community.
The town offers many lodging choices near Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, from hotels to bed-and-breakfasts and riverside campsites. Plan ahead for visiting the natural areas, as seasonal conditions and availability can change throughout the year.
The area draws visitors with water activities like kayaking and swimming in the Russian River, along with hiking trails through surrounding forests. These outdoor pursuits have made it a popular destination for people seeking active time in nature.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
