Choose a tree instead of a tombstone

A lasting, living memorial that helps preserve and restore forest ecosystems for generations to come.

Required Please enter a valid email

Required Please check the field above.

See our Privacy Policy to learn how we use your information.

Offering a beautiful alternative to cemeteries in California’s most iconic locations.

Nobody wants to plan for their end of life but, eventually, someone will have to make those decisions. When you choose to plan ahead with Better Place Forests you’re giving a gift that keeps giving: peace of mind for you and your family, and protection of California’s wild spaces.

How it works

01

Choose your tree

Enjoy a guided tour through one of our forests and find your one-of-a-kind memorial tree.

02

Protect forestland

Your purchase helps protect this rich ecosystem and contributes to reforestation across America.

03

Enjoy your forest

Your memorial tree gives you special access to the forest. Visit, hike, picnic, and see your tree grow over the years.

04

Return to earth

When the time comes, ashes are mixed with local soil and returned to the base of your tree, becoming part of the life of the forest.

Learn more

How it works

01

Choose your tree

Enjoy a guided tour through one of our forests and find your one-of-a-kind memorial tree.

02

Protect forestland

Your purchase helps protect this rich ecosystem and contributes to reforestation across America.

03

Enjoy your forest

Your memorial tree gives you special access to the forest. Visit, hike, picnic, and see your tree grow over the years.

04

Return to earth

When the time comes, ashes are mixed with local soil and returned to the base of your tree, becoming part of the life of the forest.

Learn more

When you purchase a memorial tree you...

Choose a memorial that continues your connection with nature

Establish a place for loved ones to visit and honor your memory

Conserve your forest for future generations

“

This is a thoughtful, environmentally sound manner of managing end-of-life. I appreciate that I can plan for this part of life, alleviate my children and have a place other than a cemetery where they can visit.

Francine S.

Santa Cruz Forest Customer

“

I chose Better Place Forests because it gave me the answer I was looking for—a place for my remains where I will continue to be relevant and make a difference. The idea of being part of a forest brought me peace and joy.

Julia O.

Santa Cruz Forest Customer

“

Death is not a pleasant thing to face, but knowing we will be together in such a beautiful and peaceful place makes the inevitable future easier to think about.

Anne D.

Point Arena Forest Customer

“

This opportunity is so special and exciting. No other option better supports our parents' conservation and environmental philosophy. They loved the forest, the outdoors, and the preservation of open space.

Mark F.

Point Arena Forest Customer

At Better Place Forests, we believe that making a meaningful plan for the end of life is part of living your best life now

This is a decision you only need to make once. So make yours as impactful as possible.

Learn more