In the quaint little town of San Anselmo, CA (which happens to be tucked in between San Rafael and…read moreFairfax) lies "Imagination Park". For those that choose to visit, this is a very tiny park with only a couple of benches for sitting. Do not expect to see a playground nor is there even a water fountain or public restroom. And keep the dogs at home as this is not a pet-friendly park. The space itself is equivalent to that of a backyard of a standard house. Located right off of San Anselmo Ave. and tucked right in between Magnolia Ave. and City Hall Ave. in downtown San Anselmo, this park eventually came to life back in June 2013. This idea was spearheaded by film director George Lucas who directed mega blockbuster films such as the entire Star Wars Saga, the Indiana Jones franchise as well as American Graffiti. It is very easy to find as the location itself is just steps away from the San Anselmo Public Library as well as the Town Hall. I came here on a warmer than normal summer day on 7/15/2023 at around 4:10pm. After parking my SUV just a block away, I was awed with the beautiful collection of pink/lavender flowers with the plaque that reads Imagination Park directly above it. But the real treat here is the life-size statues of one of Star Wars most recognizable and beloved characters, "Yoda", And directly on the other side is a statue of Harrison Ford who played "Indiana Jones" in all 5 of the movies spanning from 1981-2023. While you're here, its nice just to let your imagination run wild (hence the name "Imagination" Park) and just appreciate how influential George Lucas is in all of his movies. He actually used to have a residence in San Anselmo before relocating to the more private and open Lucas Valley. So for all you movie fanatics young and old, do yourself a favor and check this place out if you're in the area. My rating, a unanimous five stars.

Once again, I've warned you my fellow Yelpers and random visitors perusing the Yelp app, don't set…read moreyour expectations too high when it comes to the size of the park. It's situated next to the San Anselmo Library, extremely small and not what you imagined (no pun intended). There are two statues here - Yoda and Indiana Jones, don't expect anything else. Be respectful when visiting this park. It's a lovely hangout spot like one of the Yelpers mentioned, go get some coffee and sit here and reminisce, or do whatever you want to kill time. It's definitely not a park with monkey bars and swings for the kids, so carry on. No hiking and no trails. Stop by if you're in the neighborhood and chillax. 'Til next time ~ cheers and see you on Yelp soon! https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/imagination-park-san-anselmo?select=c6MF24JXpCU3GQUUhgfMDQ

We drove here excited to visit, but it turned into a frustrating experience. First, the park was…read moredifficult to find. Then, once we arrived, we couldn't even get through the gate because it requires an access code. We tried to sign up to join the co-op, but they aren't accepting new members. While the sign says "Welcome," it didn't feel like a welcoming environment at all. It would be helpful if the access requirements and membership restrictions were made much clearer before people make the trip.

We loved Pixie Park! We had a close call at Hal Brown Park when our oldest disappeared from view…read moreand we didn't know which way to go to search for him -- toward the marsh or toward Bon Air Road. We were delighted to find Pixie Park, so safe because of its gate. We had many years of fun there. We held several birthday parties there and the Halloween Parade and the Spring Fair were highlights each year.

My daughter and I brought food from MH Bread here and ate at a picnic table. She played on the…read moreplayground happily for a very long time. This is an excellent park for kids under 10. It is decently shaded in the picnic area and playground and has maintained bathrooms.

Such a fun park for kids! We brought our 15 month old and my friends brought their 2 year old. The…read morepark has an area for younger kids (2 years and up) and an area for older kids. My daughter was too young for either area, but she really enjoyed watching the dogs on the open field running around. I was only in town visiting, but would definitely recommend this park for any parents wanting to get outside and let their kids get their energy out!

This park is fantastic for kids of all ages. Our favorite part is the huge blue circle that spins…read more There are also swings and play structures and all u see gorgeous Redwoods in the heart of downtown Larkspur.

I've reviewed over 2 dozen parks and don't give 5 stars very often. This one deserves it. Location…read moreis super refreshing. What made me want to visit is the fact that it's in a forest of trees! I admit however, it was a bit odd that when I arrived, the "forrest" was about 1 block long. It's literally a bunch of trees in the middle of suburbia which I'm not complaining about, but it just caught me off guard. For those that need or want shade, this is the perfect place. More shaded areas in this playground than I've ever been to at any other spot. This place is littered with trees all super tall. Safety is all about access and the perimeter. The backside is surrounded by a tiny river. Frontside is surrounded by a wood fence which is quite fitting for the environment. Yes, there's a bathroom. Nice that the play structures are separated into a few play areas. This is good for separating children of different ages, but also keeps it from getting too crowded. Picnic benches too. Very nice "feel", that I can't quite explain that I've never felt at any other park. Truly a unique place. It may seem odd that the play structures are metal amidst nature, but the colors and design still go well with the environment. Funny that one of the play structures mimics a treehouse. Mulch everywhere which is great. Sand is so 1900's. Although parking wasn't tough, I think I got lucky. The street leading to this place is quite narrow. You'll find yourself taking turns w/folks coming towards you in the opposite direction b/c the street is just that narrow. This place is definitely worth visiting despite what could be a challenge with the parking situation.

Would give it 4 stars if it wasn't for people not picking up after their dogs. Stepped in dog shit…read moretwice trying to find a good spot to hang my hammock. Yesterday I had an interrupted view of the mountain. Tried going back to that spot today only to step in dog shit. Find another spot ( not as good) & again, more dog shit. Now look at what view I have of the mountain.

Guys, there is a designated dog park here for a reason. Okay to the woke mob, friendly reminder,…read morethis is not a dog park, it is a park park. Have had at least two incidents with entitled Karens like this, one of whom told ME to leave. Ah dah dah, was here first and also wait for it am not bothering other people or telling them to 'come pet my dog' like you. Some folk here are really irresponsible and just don't seem to be aware that this is an all-purpose grounds. Can't have some strange animal for example just coming up and invading a kid's soccer game. That wouldn't be good. If you have to keep on saying to people that your mutt is friendly then perhaps you need some reflection and a moment of skepticism there. Wouldn't say that a lot of the folk who go here are particularly friendly. Had an awkward guy come up asking about covid restrictions as if he was soap boxing or politicizing about something ...huh? Come on. This is just a park. However, yes, you do get a good view and there's volleyball, though not sure if you can just join or if there's a lesson arrangement or something, would happily do that. Until then, respect my walking and will do yours as well. Ugh, the Marin Karen Crazies just like to roll up in parks with dogs for some reason. Why they not trained? Is this some feminist ...dog whistle? Not quite sure what to really do here besides visit that cool @$$ dock.

Phoenix Lake in Ross is one of my favorite places to hike and has become part of my regular…read moreroutine. It's easy to get to, and if you arrive before 9:30 am, you usually have a good chance of finding a parking spot. Even if the lot is full, it's worth waiting a few minutes because spaces often open up as hikers finish their walks. My friends and I love hiking here, and we also enjoy mountain biking on the trails from time to time. The trails are well maintained, the scenery is beautiful, and the peaceful atmosphere makes every visit enjoyable. During the week, it's especially quiet, making it the perfect place to relax, get some exercise, and enjoy nature. We are fortunate to have such a beautiful outdoor destination in Marin. I highly recommend Phoenix Lake to anyone looking for a peaceful hike with stunning surroundings.

I've loved coming to Phoenix Lake since I moved to Marin in the 70's…read more I used to ride my bike from my house in San Rafael hitch up my bike when I got to the lake and then do a run around the lake and then ride my bike home. Trust me, I only hike it now! Today I added in a few new to me trails including the Yolanda Trail, 5 Corners & Shaver Grade. A mix of open exposed trails to a gorgeous canopy of redwoods & terrific views of Mt. Tam

When I first saw this park, I had no idea what to make out of it. As others have said there's a…read morelower part and an upper part. Today, I explored the upper part, where the actual large house is. Right next to it they have all kinds of beautiful gardens. They're doing a fantastic job in growing all kinds of wonderful flowers and vegetables. There's also plenty of places to have a picnic, with plenty of picnic tables, places to sit and so on. This is a really magical place to visit. Don't miss this place.

Gorgeous little community garden with park attached! Many people know of this spot for the small…read moreand intimate park attached to this massive estate, but I am head over heels for this garden!! It is a hodgepodge of steps and walk ways that make for an engaging and fun experience. Not ADA accessible, sadly. As this is a very old estate I do not know if there is intention to change that. This is a calming and simple reminder of the importance for ADA activities in nature. Lovely spot with dedicated gardeners who have clearly spent hours on their unique and creative spaces.

*****pay attention *****…read more Word, to the ignorant drivers who have never been on switchbacks DO NOT come here. As you blast down the very single car lane, not paying attention and laughing away isn't cute. Be mindful of cars and pediatricians. Believe it or not its not all about you! The road to the trail is all kinds of messed up. It's a single lane through a neighborhood with very little turnouts. Believe it or not, there are huge redwoods along this road. If you have never been on a road like this, please park at the bottom of the road!!! PLEASE! Even the folks who were walking up the road to the trail aren't alert. It's sooo fun to be surrounded by people who believe it's all about them yes, im being harsh, but it was that bad!

Dawn Falls Trail is a 2.3-mile out-and-back trail near Larkspur, California. It's considered to…read morebe a moderately challenging route. It will take about an hour to walk through this beautiful redwoods round trip to the Dawn Falls. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and running. The best part of the Dawn Falls trail is that it's not crowded but you may still see a few other people while exploring. This trail is open year round but the best time is from January through November. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. However, I do see local dogs roaming without their leashes. Only a few parking spots deter many visitors. However, if you will be willing to be patience, there will on a parkingspot for you. This trail is maintained so clean here, so please no littering! Enjoy!

Albert Park isn't much but it's appreciated by those who can partake of this new park...swings,…read morechildren's play area, greens to picnic upon, picnic tables to assemble and have community events. presently, it's temporarily closed so the entirety of it's magnificence in the urban environment isn't readily accessible.

We took the smart train down to San Rafael and it was nice to find this park after lunch. It's a…read morelot of fun for young kids, I think anyone under 6 years old would have a lot of fun here. It was clean and all the structures look great.

Dog friendly park with outstanding views. Near the prison - get some fresh air after you visit all…read moreyour friends there. Probably a great place to take your children. Point out the prison in the distance. Let the kids know if they act up thats where they will end up. Thats parenting at its best. Views for days. And you can have the place mostly to yourself - if you have a dog who isn't well socialized that might be very important. A designated trail snakes near the main road if you want to get in some steps. Rinks was pestering me about going to Sausalito - I dont know what it is with the ladies and that town. Over priced ice cream? Too bad... this is all you get for today. All the best children's books have scary and threatening undertones... plus the inmates shouldn't be the only ones to enjoy the views.

Nice park, scenic trail, dog-friendly, kid-friendly, and bike-friendly. Great exercise, wave to…read morethe Ferry as they go by or watch the windsurfers take on "Jaws". Thanks to the City of Larkspur for keeping up the landscaping; they do a stellar job keeping this hidden gem of a park looking immaculate. A few parking spaces available at no charge while you take a stroll or jog with your furry friend.