Old Mill Park
About
Old Mill Park is a charming, family-friendly oasis in Mill Valley where kids can splash in the gentle creek, explore around the historic replica mill wheel, and run freely on soft grassy areas under towering redwoods. With its safe, enclosed feel and toddler-friendly water play, this park is a local favorite that combines natural beauty with low-key fun perfect for the preschool and early elementary crowd.
Highlights
- ✓Shallow, gentle creek perfect for safe water play and exploring
- ✓Historic replica Old Mill with working wheel that fascinates young kids
- ✓Shaded picnic areas under beautiful redwood trees
- ✓Large grassy lawn ideal for picnics, frisbee, or toddler running around
- ✓Natural boulders and rocks for climbing and imaginative play
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring water shoes or sandals for creek play,the rocks can be slippery and the water is chilly year-round
- 2.Arrive before 11am on weekends to snag shaded picnic tables and avoid the midday crowd
- 3.Pack a change of clothes because kids inevitably get soaked, even if they only planned to 'dip their toes in'
- 4.The parking lot is small (about 10 spots), so consider walking from downtown Mill Valley if it's full
- 5.Bring buckets and nets for creek exploration,kids love catching tadpoles and examining creek creatures
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings or late afternoons are ideal for a quieter experience. Late spring through early fall offers the best weather for creek play, though the park's shaded areas make it pleasant even on warm days.
What to Know
Free to visit with no admission charge. Parking is limited to a small lot on Cascade Drive, but street parking is available nearby. No restrooms on-site, so plan accordingly,downtown Mill Valley facilities are a short walk away.
Seasonal Notes
Creek water levels are highest in winter and spring but can be too cold and fast-moving for small children. Summer and early fall offer the warmest water temperatures. The park can get muddy after winter rains, so check conditions before visiting.
Nearby Eats
Walk to downtown Mill Valley (5 minutes) for family favorites like Piazza D'Angelo for pizza or Sweetwater Music Hall which has a kid-friendly café menu. The Depot Bookstore & Café is perfect for a casual sandwich and browsing with kids.
More Activities Near Mill Valley
Hauke Park
Hauke Park is Mill Valley's go-to community park, offering something for everyone with its modern playground equipment, sports facilities including basketball courts and baseball fields, and plenty of green space for picnicking. The well-maintained playground features age-appropriate structures that keep kids engaged while parents can relax at nearby picnic tables or cheer from the sidelines during games.
Boyle Park
Boyle Park is a magical escape into nature where towering redwoods create a cool, shaded playground for adventurous families. This local favorite combines natural beauty with kid-friendly amenities including meandering trails perfect for little legs, picnic areas nestled among the giant trees, and play spaces that encourage imaginative exploration in a stunning forest setting.
Phyllis Ellman Trail
The Phyllis Ellman Trail is an easy, paved pathway that's perfect for families with young children, jogger strollers, and beginner walkers. This scenic Mill Valley connector trail offers gentle grades, beautiful neighborhood views, and a safe space for kids to explore nature without challenging terrain or busy roads.
Dipsea Trail
The Dipsea Trail offers families a magical introduction to Bay Area hiking through towering redwood groves and peaceful forest paths. While the full trail is challenging, the lower Mill Valley sections provide gentle, kid-friendly walks where little ones can explore nature, spot banana slugs, and experience the wonder of walking among giants without steep climbs.