Point Reyes National Seashore backcountry tent camping requires advance preparation, with most sites needing reservations 3-6 months ahead during peak seasons. Overnight visitors must contend with temperature variations that frequently dip into the 40s even during summer months. The terrain varies dramatically between coastal bluffs, dense forest groves, and open grasslands, creating distinct microclimates within short hiking distances.
What to do
Beach fires at Tomales Bay: Bring beach fire permit from Bear Valley Visitor Center for boat-in camping. "We had a great time making a fire on the beach at night. It's pretty windy, so be prepared," notes a camper who stayed at Wildcat Campground.
Kayaking with bioluminescence: Cross Tomales Bay during new moon phases for nighttime bioluminescent viewing. "You will see sea jellies, bat rays, maybe a leopard shark, and bioluminescent plankton! Hope for no full moon because running your hands through that water at night with no light is a trip," explains a visitor to Tomales Bay Boat-In Camping.
Russian River swimming and tubing: Access river beaches near Guerneville for water activities. "The Russian River is conveniently across the street, and the gravel beach area is great for little waders. River shoes are a must though. There are inner tubes and paddle boards for rent if you are so inclined," reports a camper at Schoolhouse Canyon Campground.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Look for vegetation barriers between campsites for privacy. "Sites 5-8 are more private than others, but 8 gets 0 sun. Mud/cold. Not fun," warns a camper at Glen Campground.
Protected campsite locations: Find wind-sheltered spots away from coastal exposure. A camper at Sky Campground noted, "I stayed at site #12 and felt that it and #11 were the best ones there because they are surrounded by lush vegetation and have trees that provide shade and protection against the wind."
Beach access: Select campgrounds with proximity to shoreline for evening walks. "The beach is sandy and beautiful, not that many people around," observes a camper who stayed at Coast Campground.
What you should know
Site-specific considerations: Research individual campsite numbers before booking. "I like the sites under the trees rather than those in the open. The sites have space between them so you do feel alone. My only issue with the campground is that unless you using it as a stop over to another site there is not much to do," reports a Sky Campground visitor.
Water conditions: Check seasonal water availability and requirements. "When we visited, there was a notice that tap water had to be filtered," mentions a camper at Glen Campground.
Wind exposure: Pack accordingly for persistent coastal winds at exposed sites. "It is in a canyon so noise does carry. You will need to walk in your wood as there is no wood gathering allowed," advises a camper.
Raccoon protection: Use provided food lockers but take additional precautions. "The raccoons are everywhere at night! They can unzip coolers, those little zippable coolers. They can pretty much open anything with their little human-like hands so protect your stuff!" warns a Tomales Bay camper.
Tips for camping with families
Easy backpacking introduction: "This was our first backpacking trip and we mostly wanted to test our gear. This was perfect for that. 5-mile hike in with some uphill in the last 1.5 miles that was challenging but not too hard," notes a family at Glen Campground.
Beach activities for children: "Inside the Point Reyes National seashore, this is a hike in only campground. But has pit toilets, potable water. Groups sites also available. Sites have picnic tables and bear/critter lockers for food. 2 min walk to beach, with amazing views of the cliffs and seashore," explains a Coast Camp visitor.
Protected swimming areas: "Tomales Bay State Park - in particular, Heart's Desire Beach is a gem. Great beach for kids as there is sand bar so there is shallow area that warms the water for them to play," says a Duncans Mills Camping Club visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most Point Reyes campgrounds allow tents only, requiring advance planning for RV campers. "This place is great for sleeping over if you are in a crabbing or fishing trip, but besides that, there is nothing around. The campsites are close to the coast but this also means that when it gets really windy is very hard to set the tent, cook or hang out," notes a Tomales Bay visitor.
Nearby alternatives: "Nice sites, although not all sites are full hook up. You can pay to have your Honeywell dumped if not at a full hook up. Nice environment and they have cook outs- bring a side dish and enjoy the free hot dogs and hamburgers!" shares a visitor to Duncans Mills Camping Club.
