Point Reyes National Seashore sits on a triangular peninsula formed by the San Andreas Fault, with elevations ranging from sea level to 1,407 feet at Mount Wittenberg. The region experiences cool, foggy summers and mild, rainy winters with average temperatures between 45-65°F year-round. Most campgrounds near Point Reyes require advance reservations, especially during summer and fall weekends when spaces fill quickly.
What to do
Beach hiking and exploration: Take advantage of the coastal location by exploring the shoreline. At Wildcat Campground, you can walk to Alamere Falls directly from camp. "The six mile hike to reach the campground is stunning. The hike changes drastically over the course of the six miles ranging from lush forests to grassy fields to breathtaking coastal views," reports Michaela C.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear coastal nights offer excellent stargazing conditions. At Bodega Dunes Campground, campers can enjoy night sky viewing from the dunes. "Quiet at night except for non-annoying fog horn and soothing ocean waves over hill," notes Leonard H., highlighting the peaceful nighttime atmosphere.
Wildlife observation: The region supports diverse coastal wildlife. Michael I. at Bodega Dunes mentions, "We did see a few foxes, or the same fox a few times, so make sure to keep camp sites clean." Many campgrounds have resident turkey populations, deer, and various coastal birds.
Tidepool exploration: Low tides reveal rich marine ecosystems along the shores. MarinMaverick from Coast Campground shares, "The beach offers tidepools close by as well as a great place for beach fire (permit needed)."
What campers like
Proximity to wine country: Several campgrounds provide affordable access to Napa Valley wine tasting. Jamie G. from Skyline Wilderness Park states, "Bonus: short drive to Downtown Napa. Wish we had more time to spend there."
Varied terrain for hiking: The region offers diverse landscapes within short distances. J.d. E. notes that Coast Camp is "a short hike from the hostel and has running water and pit toilets. It's right at the beach so it gets windy in the summer. Fall is best."
Seasonal differences: Different seasons offer unique experiences. Peter M. says about Ritchey Creek Campground, "We found a great trail close by at Lake Hennessey. If you're a wine drinker, during non-COVID times you can catch a wine bus from here!"
Beach access for evening fires: Several coastal campgrounds allow beach fires with permits. Char A. from Coast Campground shares, "Got a permit for a beach fire but couldn't find enough drift wood to make it last. Wonderful campsite though, can't beat our view and sounds of the ocean."
What you should know
Limited equestrian camping options: While horseback riding is available on designated trails, dedicated equestrian camping facilities are scarce. Elliott B. observed at Wildcat Camp, "During our hike in and out we hung out at site #2 as this site didn't have people currently camping there. I'd be cautious about actually staying at this site as unfortunately it had the horse riders come right by as this is really the only way they can get to the hitches."
Sand management challenges: Coastal campgrounds often feature sandy terrain. Michael I. warns about Bodega Dunes, "I have to confess that I feel pretty silly for not being as prepared for the sand as I should have been from the name of the campground. Who would have thought!? We walked around sites 22-55 and all seem to be entirely on the sand. Come prepared to deal with sand."
Wildlife precautions: Several campgrounds report issues with small animals. Elliott B. notes at Wildcat Camp, "You might want to be on the lookout for small vermin running around the fields and looking to snag any food you've left out."
Weather variability: Coastal fog and wind can be significant factors. Julie D. from Lake Sonoma mentions, "I liked there was a hiking trail down to the lake," but many reviewers note the coastal campgrounds can be foggy and windy, especially during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. April H. at Liberty Glen Lake Sonoma mentions, "There is also a playground on site, with multiple trails."
Nature education opportunities: Several parks feature educational programs. Susan H. recommends Ritchey Creek Campground: "We have rented at this campground many times. Never had any trouble getting a reservation in spring or fall. Camping here leaves lots of money for food and wine splurges!"
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Some sites accommodate family cycling. Dustin C. from Bodega Dunes notes, "Sites were large, water fill stations and bathrooms (with showers) were easily accessible... This is a great place for family, kids rode bikes all weekend."
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with safe swimming areas. Peter M. at Ritchey Creek Campground mentions, "There's a pool for warm summer days and some awesome trails," offering a swimming alternative to the often dangerous coastal waters.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV options vary widely across the region. At Anthony Chabot Regional Park, Lori T. notes, "No generators are allowed which isn't an issue since there are full hookups at all 12 RV sites. All sites seemed relatively level."
Site spacing considerations: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. Shari G. at Anthony Chabot observed, "The campsite loops wind through the coastal Live Oak and Bishop Pine trees and provide some privacy in between sites in some areas, though some sites are right on top of each other."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV sites have dump stations. Jon M. from Bodega Dunes shares, "The campground was clean with sites that were easy to back into. The sites were separated by trees and shrubbery, give the feeling of a more privacy."
Size limitations: Many coastal campgrounds cannot accommodate larger RVs. Ryan W. warns, "The road in is fairly winding with a bit of a drop down the cliff. If you're heading in at dusk or dawn, go slow. You will see deer stepping through the road."
