Bodega Dunes Campground
4.5591 reviewsBodega Dunes Campground, Sonoma Coast State Park, California
Bodega Dunes Campground
$35.00 - $45.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$45.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$35 per campsite, plus $8 online reservation fee. Firewood costs $8 per bundle, $15 for two bundles.
About this campground
Discover your perfect coastal retreat at Bodega Dunes Campground, where 99 thoughtfully placed campsites weave through a mesmerizing landscape of windswept sandy dunes and ancient Cypress groves. This cherished gem within Sonoma Coast State Park offers an enchanting blend of beachside adventure and sheltered comfort, with sites ranging from intimate tent spots tucked beneath towering trees to spacious RV-friendly areas. Whether you're seeking a romantic weekend escape or a family basecamp for coastal exploration, you'll find the ideal spot among these ever-shifting dunes.
Bodega Dunes Campground accommodates tent campers, RVs (dry camping only), and bike-in guests. Group camping and primitive sites are not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceSonoma Coast State Park stands as a testament to California's commitment to preserving its spectacular coastal ecosystems, protecting diverse habitats that have flourished here for millennia. While the dunes themselves whisper stories of wind and time rather than human history, your stay connects you to the greater narrative of Bodega Bay's rich maritime heritage. This protected landscape serves as a living classroom where visitors can witness the delicate balance between preservation and recreation.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the refreshing embrace of true California coastal weather, where gentle ocean breezes keep daytime temperatures hovering between a comfortable 60°F and 70°F year-round. As evening falls, temperatures dip to a crisp 50°F, perfect for gathering around the campfire. Summer brings the mystical coastal fog that rolls in like nature's own air conditioning, creating an ethereal atmosphere among the dunes. While winter months may bring occasional rain showers, the warmer seasons remain largely dry, making this an ideal destination for fair-weather campers and seasoned adventurers alike.
ElevationSet among the rolling coastal dunes that rise and fall like frozen waves, the campground offers a unique topography where sandy hillocks provide natural privacy between sites and create an ever-changing landscape shaped by Pacific winds.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a photographer's paradise where towering Monterey Cypress trees stand sentinel over golden sand dunes, their gnarled branches sculpted by decades of ocean winds. Native coastal vegetation paints the landscape in subtle greens and browns, while the rhythmic sound of Pacific waves echoes just beyond the dunes. A short drive reveals dramatic ocean vistas, tide pools teeming with marine life, and miles of pristine coastline where harbor seals bask on sun-warmed rocks.
Geological RegionNestled within the dynamic ecosystem of Sonoma Coast State Park's coastal dunes, this campground occupies a fascinating geological transition zone where ancient marine terraces meet modern wind-sculpted sand formations. The iconic Cypress groves that provide shelter and beauty have adapted to thrive in this unique environment, their roots anchoring the shifting sands while Pacific winds continue their eternal work of reshaping the dunes. This living landscape offers campers a front-row seat to observe the powerful forces that have carved California's dramatic coastline.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-accessible shower stalls are available, but reviews suggest occasional maintenance issues with these amenities.
Sites SizeCampsites vary widely in size, with some accommodating multiple large tents, and others being smaller and more cramped. Examples include site #39, described as "huge" and able to fit 5-6 large tents, and site #19, which is noted for being "on a hill and very cramped."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across the campground. Some sites, such as #87 and #89, are described as very private, while others like #44 are exposed to nearby houses. Site #65 offers relative privacy but is impacted by its proximity to a road and parking lot.
Total Campsites99 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites in the higher-numbered loops for less road noise and more privacy. Site #65 is ideal for water views and sunny sandy areas; site #87 offers seclusion.
Best CampsitesSite #65 is highly rated for its size, privacy, shade, and partial water view. Site #87 is noted for seclusion and flat tent areas. Site #89 offers privacy, Cypress tree cover, and a view of the night sky.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is 8 people.
Groups
Group camping details are not provided in the sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops with varying levels of privacy and proximity to amenities. Sites are spaced to allow privacy and access to trails.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak seasons are spring and summer, reservations are highly recommended.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via online platforms, including ReserveCalifornia.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability; sites often fill quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation must be made within the stipulated timeline to avoid penalties. Specific policies are not detailed.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bodega Dunes Campground offers diverse activities, such as hiking through scenic trails, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Bodega Bay provides opportunities for local seafood and nearby attractions. However, swimming is not recommended due to cold temperatures and the dangerous ocean conditions.
HikingThe campground offers scenic hiking trails through dunes and cypress groves, with paths leading to the beach. User reviews describe the trails as "worth the hike" but note that some are challenging due to sand dunes.
BikingThe campground includes bike-in sites praised for their accessibility. "One of the most best and most friendly bike-in campsites in California," a user noted.
Wildlife viewingUsers frequently mention wildlife sightings, including sealions, foxes, deer, and various bird species. One user noted observing "at least 30 species in just one morning."
Beach activitiesBeach activities primarily include walking and exploring dunes rather than swimming due to cold temperatures. "It's not an easy walk to the beach; you must climb over a sand dune," one user remarked.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood can be purchased for $8 per bundle or $15 for two bundles.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as raccoons and deer are common. Poison oak is found in some areas. Strong coastal winds and foghorn noise may disturb campers.
Active alertsNo current alerts reported for Bodega Dunes Campground.
Weather forecast
55
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 93%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 13.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Bodega Bay Fire Department (2 miles), Palm Drive Hospital in Sebastopol (15 miles), Sonoma County Sheriff’s Department in Santa Rosa (23 miles)
Good to know
Peak season datesSpring and summer months, generally from May to September.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available but not located at every site, according to user reviews. Specific pickup schedules or recycling options are not detailed.
Proximity to water featuresCampsites are approximately 1 mile from the Pacific Ocean, accessible via walking trails or short drives.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include foghorn noise, poorly maintained bathrooms, and limited hot water in showers.
HostHosts are available on-site to assist campers. However, some reviews mentioned difficulties locating assistance during emergencies.
Campground Map
Bodega Dunes Campground, Sonoma Coast State Park, California
Driving directionsFrom Highway 1, turn onto Doran Beach Road to access Bodega Dunes Campground. Follow signs to the campground entrance situated within Sonoma Coast State Park. It is approximately 1 mile from the ocean.
Accessible from Highway 1 via paved roads. The campground is reachable year-round, although fog and wet conditions may make driving slightly challenging.Nearby places
Bodega Bay (0.5 miles, 5 minutes), Sebastopol (15 miles, 25 minutes), Santa Rosa (23 miles, 40 minutes), San Francisco (68 miles, 1.5 hours)
Nearby supplies
Bodega Bay shops (0.5 miles) for groceries, firewood, and camping essentials
gas stations are scarce, so visitors are advised to fill up prior to arrival.
Camper Reviews
4.6
91 reviews
Bodega Dunes Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Bodega Dunes Campground are generally positive, highlighting the campground's cleanliness, large sites, scenic trails, and proximity to the beach. Common complaints include the foghorn noise, upkeep issues with showers, and occasional overcrowding.
Review Summaries
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include large campsites, clean facilities, scenic trails, and proximity to the beach. "The lots were huge and the neighbors incredible," one user stated.
Frequent complaints include the persistent foghorn noise, maintenance issues with showers, lack of privacy at certain sites, and the occasional closure of the dump station.
Users recommend bringing earplugs to mitigate foghorn noise and reserving sites well in advance, particularly during peak seasons. Several users advise bringing extra blankets and warm clothing due...
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Spring and summer are noted as busy seasons requiring advance reservations. Winter is described as quieter, with tree coverage offering protection from wind.
1. "This is one of the nicest campgrounds in No. California. My family has been going here for over 25 years. It's become an annual event." 2. "The foghorn goes off consistently every ten seconds,...
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Site-specific reviews highlight the varying privacy and size of campsites. For example, site #65 is described as "one of the best sites at the campground," while site #19 is noted for being "on a...
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ADA-accessible showers are available, but users report occasional maintenance issues. "Freezing cold showers—there’s no way this should be allowed," said one user.
Dogs are allowed in the campground but restricted from the beach and dune trails. Pets must be leashed, as noted in official guidelines.
Last updated July 20, 2025