The Russians withdrew in 1841 as the sea otters became scarce. The fort itself is the central focus of the park, with its domed redwood buildings, historical displays, and a visitors center, but it's only a small part of the park's 3517 acres. The park also includes redwood canyons, coastal bluffs, and a lovely cove. A campground is nearby in a protected ravine. They include rhododendron groves, rugged coastline, scenic coves, meadows, and a pygmy forest.
Divers can explore the rich marine life in a protected underwater reserve here.
This 5-mile long windswept beach is a beachcomber's paradise. Creeks draining redwood canyons, ocean currents, and winds pile huge amounts of driftwood onto the beach, which beachgoers have built into makeshift shelters from the wind. Also here is a marsh, pond, dunes, and a lagoon. To the south is Point Arena and the picturesque Point Arena Lighthouse. Its inland location protects it from coastal fog and winds, and the River provides a refreshing swimming hole in the summer.