Skyline Park: Supervisors Approve Purchase

NAPA COUNTY, CA—Skyline Wilderness Park will soon officially become part of Napa County's park system following a vote Tuesday by the Napa County Board of Supervisors to purchase the 874-acre parkland.

The $7.26 million acquisition fulfills a long-term vision to preserve Skyline Wilderness Park for future generations. Situated east of the city of Napa along Imola Avenue, the park features abundant native plants and wildlife and 25 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding.

The county has leased the property from the state of California since 1980. Legislation by state Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, in 2019 enabled the state to authorize the sale of the property to Napa County.

The purchase follows years of environmental analysis, consultation and negotiations between the county and state. As part of the agreement, Napa County will assume responsibility for park maintenance, water rights and necessary repairs. The transaction is expected to close in March.

"Today marks the culmination of the efforts of so many who have helped to secure Skyline’s preservation and all it offers to the community for generations to come," said Joelle Gallagher, chair of the Napa County Board of Supervisors. "With local control, we can ensure Skyline thrives as a space for recreation and a place for residents and visitors to reconnect with nature.”

In the footprint of Skyline is the 80-acre Camp Coombs property, which the county is also in the process of purchasing from the state. The Board of Supervisors is expected to consider that purchase agreement next year.