Current Projects & Programs
Preserving the Bale Grist Mill
Bale Grist Mill FLUME & Siding restoration
(In progress)
At Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park, the historic siding and flume are essential to maintaining both the building and the mill’s operation. The first step in this project was completing LiDAR scans of the structure, which now provide detailed documentation to guide the work. Years of exposure have left sections of the siding and flume badly deteriorated, making the structure vulnerable to weather and threatening the mill’s function. This restoration will replace the rotting wood with historically appropriate materials that match the original construction, preserving the mill’s authenticity and keeping this historic landmark functioning as a living piece of Napa Valley’s heritage. Fundraising is now underway to make this work possible.
Environmental Education Center
(In progress)
Our goal is to revitalize a neglected 1945 structure within Bothe-Napa Valley State Park and transform it into an outdoor educational center. The revitalized structure will house interactive exhibits and classroom space for existing programs, as well as serve as a venue for small events to help financially support our educational programs. This transformation offers visitors, schools, and communities a unique opportunity to explore, understand, and appreciate the diverse ecosystem, as well as the people and cultures that have shaped the area.
BOTHE VISITOR Center REHAB & LANDSCAPING
(In progress)
Our goal is to enhance the Bothe-Napa Valley State Park Visitor Center and its surroundings so the space better serves visitors and reflects the beauty of the park. The first phase of the project focused on long-overdue maintenance of the building itself, including repainting, roof replacement, new HVAC, electrical updates, recarpeting, restoration of the original wood flooring, and upgrades to the staff kitchen. With this work now complete, the next phase turns to the landscaped area at the front of the Visitor Center. Plans for this phase have been completed and are currently under final review, with construction anticipated by 2026. Improvements include removing the non-native lawn and replacing it with native, drought-tolerant plants, constructing new pathways and patios for improved accessibility and expanded seating, and adding features such as a bike rack and privacy fencing to screen the maintenance area. Together, these updates will create a more welcoming and functional space where visitors can gather, rest, and connect with the park.
INTERPRETIVE PLANNING
(IN PROGRESS)
Our Interpretive Planning Project is laying the foundation for new exhibits that will reimagine how the stories and resources of Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park, and Robert Louis Stevenson State Park are shared. This plan will guide the creation of engaging and accessible interpretive experiences that highlight the parks’ natural, historical, and cultural significance. With input from the community, visitor surveys, partner organizations, and close collaboration with local tribes, we are developing themes and strategies that will shape future exhibits and interactive elements. The plan will serve as a blueprint to transform visitor experiences, ensuring interpretive spaces that are dynamic, inclusive, and relevant to today’s audiences.
Bale Grist Mill Bridge
(Completed)
The Napa Valley State Parks Association has successfully funded and completed the replacement of the pedestrian bridge at Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park through general fundraising efforts, including our annual online auction and dinner. While no funding was contributed directly to the bridge project itself, donations to NVSPA allow us to complete impactful projects like these, supporting essential park improvements and enhancing visitor experiences. Since 1846, this park has been a cherished gathering place, and the bridge remains essential for safe access from the parking lot. Originally constructed in the early 1980s, the bridge had reached a critical state, requiring replacement at an estimated cost of $125,000. Thanks to the support of our community, this historic landmark will continue to be accessible for all to enjoy for years to come.
NVSPA Progress Update - 2025
Interpretive Programs
Field Trips
Field trips are offered free of charge to schools, funded by the Napa Valley State Parks Association, and led by the Napa County Regional Park & Open Space District. Bus grants are also available for schools in need.
Outdoor Education Field Trips
Our field trips aim to increase awareness and students’ understanding of natural environments, ecosystems, and sustainability. Students engage in hands-on learning activities, group games, exploration, and observation of the natural world, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills related to environmental issues and natural processes. Our programs strive to inspire appreciation and positive action toward the environment while increasing knowledge and understanding of environmental science and conservation. Offered Monday-Thursdays, typically held at Bothe-Napa Valley State Parks.
Bale Grist Mill Field Trips
Our Bale Grist Mill field trips immerse students in California’s rich history, connecting them to the past through interactive learning. During the one-hour guided tour, students discover the essential role the mill played in the lives of early California settlers and its impact on California’s journey to statehood. They’ll gain firsthand insights into the traditional flour-milling process, watching the mill’s historic water wheel and grindstones in action. After the tour, students can explore the granary museum and gift shop, have lunch at the picnic benches, engage in teacher-led activities, or hike along the History Trail. Offered Tuesdays - Thursdays at 10:00 AM or 11:00 AM.
Junior Rangers
The Junior Ranger Hikes are a fun and safe activity for children to participate in while visiting the parks this summer. Junior rangers explore park history and nature through outdoor adventures with park staff. While the program is designed for ages 7-12, younger and older children may also participate. Junior Rangers meet every Saturday at 10 AM in the campground at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park throughout Memorial Day-Labor Day weekends.