John Muir National Historic Site

John Muir National Historic Site encompasses a total area of 345 acres of land that is located in Martinez, California and just northeast of Oakland. The historical site is accessible using two main routes that include using the I-80 east to CA 4 and then exiting at Alhambra Avenue or using the I-680 north to CA 4 and then turning west to Alhambra Avenue Exit. 

The national historic site was authorized on August 31, 1964, and is managed by the National Park Service. When visitors get to the John Muir National Historic Site, they will find several features that will hold their interest. First, the historic site preserves and commemorates the life of John Muir was a famous naturalist that lived between 1890 and 1914. 

Within the historic site is the 14-room residence where he lived. In fact, the mansion was built by Dr. John Strentzel in 1883. Dr. John Strentzel was not only Muir's father-in-law but also a business partner with whom he managed a 2,600-acre fruit ranch. The protected land today also preserves 325 acres of grassland, woodland and Mount Wanda which was part of the original 2,600 acres of land that was originally owned by the Muir family. 

John Muir and his wife, Louisa, moved into the house in John Muir National Historic Site in 1890 and lived there until his passing in 1914. Besides the history and the nature that can be seen at the John Muir National Historic Site, visitors to the historic site can also get to participate in recreational activities like guided and self-guided tours as well as birdwatching. 

Some of the amenities in the park to facilitate these activities include a picnic area, restrooms, visitor center, museum/exhibit, and self-guided trails. Dogs are also allowed into John Muir National Historic Site although dog owners must be aware of some rules regarding their pooch. Basically, dog owners must maintain immediate control of their dog at all times and ensure that their dog remains well-behaved.