Gerstle Cove Campground
4.5522 reviews25050 Highway 1, Jenner, CA 95450
Gerstle Cove Campground
$35.00 - $35.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$5.00
Group Site Fee$200.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are $35 per night for standard sites at Gerstle Cove Campground. Overflow camping for self-contained vehicles costs $30 per night. Hiker/biker sites are available for $5 per night.
About this campground
Perched dramatically atop windswept coastal bluffs, Gerstle Cove Campground offers an intimate escape into the raw beauty of Salt Point State Park. This charming, rustic retreat places you mere moments from the thundering Pacific, where each campsite serves as your personal basecamp for coastal adventure. Though tucked behind protective vegetation rather than directly oceanfront, every site comes thoughtfully equipped with the essentials: sturdy picnic tables for sunset dinners, fire rings for evening storytelling, and secure food lockers to keep your provisions safe from curious wildlife.
Gerstle Cove Campground caters to tent and small RV camping with a rustic environment. Overflow camping supports self-contained vehicles, emphasizing simplicity and natural beauty.
Historical SignificanceBeneath the waves at Gerstle Cove lies a pioneering piece of California history—the state's very first underwater preserve, where generations of marine life have thrived under protection. But the human story runs equally deep: in the 1800s, skilled stonecutters harvested the area's distinctive sandstone, shipping it south to literally build the foundations of San Francisco. Today, you can still spot the old quarry marks on coastal rocks, silent witnesses to the backbreaking labor that helped construct a golden city.
Weather and SeasonsThe Pacific's moody temperament shapes every season here, creating a climate that's refreshingly unpredictable. Summer mornings often greet campers with mystical fog banks that roll across the bluffs, keeping temperatures delightfully cool around 64°F—perfect for hiking without breaking a sweat. Winter brings its own gentle drama, with temperatures hovering in the comfortable low 40s and dramatic storm-watching opportunities. Seasoned visitors know the secret: pack layers like an onion, ready to peel or add as the coastal winds shift their whims throughout the day.
ElevationWhile specific elevation markers remain unrecorded in official documents, the campground's blufftop position places you in that sweet spot where land dramatically meets sea—high enough to feel the full force of ocean breezes, yet accessible enough for easy exploration of the tide pools and coves below.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living gallery where bishop pines twist into sculptural forms, their branches permanently bent by persistent ocean winds. Towering Douglas firs and smooth-barked madrones create a diverse canopy that shelters both campers and the abundant wildlife—from the elegant black-tailed deer that browse through camp at dawn to the bold Steller's jays that announce your breakfast preparations. Just beyond your tent, the Pacific unleashes its timeless percussion against ancient rocky promontories, creating a natural soundtrack that lulls you to sleep each night.
Geological RegionSalt Point State Park showcases Northern California's coastal geology at its most dramatic. Here, the relentless Pacific has carved a masterpiece from the landscape, creating a wonderland of coastal bluffs that drop precipitously to hidden coves below. Venture inland and discover the peculiar pygmy forests, where centuries-old trees stand stunted like natural bonsai gardens. Open prairies bloom with seasonal wildflowers, while the coastline reveals the area's geological calling card: intricate tafoni formations, where salt and wind have honeycomed the sandstone into otherworldly sculptures that wouldn't look out of place on an alien planet.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThree campsites (#7, #8, and #24) are accessible, offering accessible tables, fire rings, and water spigots. Parking and a restroom near site #8 are also accessible.
Sites SizeMostly small sites as noted by reviewers, suitable for tents and small RVs.
Sites PrivacySites are described as well-separated, providing a quiet environment. Overflow areas for self-contained vehicles offer ocean views.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites numbered 8-23 are recommended for privacy and spacing. Overflow camping is ideal for those seeking ocean views.
Best CampsitesCampsites 6, 7, 9, 12, and 17 are considered the best based on reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit not specified in authoritative sources.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Eight persons maximum per site, including children.
Groups
Accommodates up to 40 people and 10 cars, located near Gerstle Cove. Dogs are not permitted.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are well-separated and spaced for privacy. Overflow area is available for self-contained vehicles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Recommended reservations during peak season from March 15 to October 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made by calling (800) 444-7275 or visiting www.parks.ca.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up hiker/biker sites and overflow camping are available. Overflow sites are self-contained vehicles only.
Cancellation PolicyRefunds are provided for cancellations due to water issues at Gerstle Cove. Contact Lilia.Ponce@parks.ca.gov for specific policies.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground and surrounding Salt Point State Park offer a wealth of activities, from hiking and wildlife viewing to fishing and tide pooling. The park's rugged coastline and lush forest landscapes create abundant recreational opportunities.
HikingOver 20 miles of hiking trails are available, including the accessible Salt Point Trail with ocean views. Specific trails like Prairie and Phillips Gulch offer varied terrain and scenic vistas.
FishingFishing is permitted outside Gerstle Cove Marine Reserve with valid licenses. Common catches include rockfish, lingcod, and cabezon. Gerstle Cove Marine Reserve prohibits fishing to protect marine life.
BikingAllowed on fire roads from May to October; single-track trails are restricted to prevent damage.
BoatingKayaking and diving are supported, especially within the Gerstle Cove Marine Reserve, which permits underwater photography and exploration.
Wildlife viewingAbundant wildlife including deer, raccoons, foxes, and birds like pelicans and ospreys. Marine species such as whales are visible during migration.
Beach activitiesTide pooling and ocean exploration are popular due to the rocky coastline and marine reserves.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are only permitted in designated fire rings. Firewood can be purchased from camp hosts.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsOcean and bluff-related hazards are significant due to rogue waves and slippery rocks. Wildlife such as raccoons may intrude on campsites. Poison oak and ticks are common in surrounding areas.
Active alertsBoil water advisory is in effect due to a broken water line. Portable toilets are provided. Visitors must bring their own potable water or fill tanks at Bodega Dunes Campground.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 83%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 11 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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
The nearest hospital is in Santa Rosa, approximately 50 miles south. Police and ranger services are available locally within the park. Emergency contact numbers include (707) 847-3221 for on-site assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 15 through October 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available. Recycling is not mentioned explicitly.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Gerstle Cove, which is an underwater marine reserve. Rocky tide pools and kelp forests are nearby attractions.
Common complaintsSeveral reviews mention water issues, lack of showers, and cool dampness affecting tent camping. Other concerns include wildlife intrusions and limited ocean views from campsites.
HostRangers are described as helpful, but some reviews criticize the camp host’s behavior.
Campground Map
25050 Highway 1, Jenner, CA 95450
Driving directionsThe campground is situated approximately 90 miles north of San Francisco and 30 miles north of Jenner along Highway One. The drive includes very winding roads, and visitors are advised to proceed with caution. Signage for Salt Point State Park is visible along the route.
Highway One provides direct access to the campground. The road is paved but winding, with narrow segments that may be challenging for larger RVs and trailers. Seasonal weather conditions may affect road usability.Nearby places
Jenner (30 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Gualala (18 miles, 30 minutes)
San Francisco (90 miles, approximately 2 hours)
Nearby supplies
The Fort Ross store, located approximately 5 miles south, offers basic groceries and supplies. The nearest gas stations are in Jenner (30 miles south) and Gualala (18 miles north).
Camper Reviews
4.6
22 reviews
Gerstle Cove Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users praise the campground's rustic charm, proximity to the ocean, and clean facilities. Common themes include quiet nights, abundant wildlife, and scenic coastal views.
Review Summaries
Positive aspects include clean restrooms, spacious and separated campsites, proximity to hiking trails and coastal views, and excellent cell reception for Verizon users.
Complaints include wet tents due to coastal moisture, lack of potable water, occasional unfriendly camp hosts, and wildlife intrusions such as raccoons and foxes.
Bring firewood and potable water. Store food securely to deter wildlife and raccoons. Consider arriving early for overflow sites with ocean views.
Summer experiences feature fog and moisture, requiring layered clothing. Fall offers whale watching during migration. Winter is noted for its cold and wet conditions.
"Campsites roughly 8-23 are the best." - Matt Anderson Photography
"No showers, no cell service, no noise at night, (except for raccoons)." - Craig Philpott
"Sites are nicely spaced. Access to the...
Show more
Best sites include #6, #7, #9, #12, and #17 for Gerstle Cove. Overflow areas provide ocean views but are first-come, first-served.
Accessible sites (#7, #8, and #24) are well-equipped with accessible tables, fire rings, and restrooms. Routes and parking near site #8 are noted for accessibility.
Dogs are allowed in campgrounds and paved areas, but prohibited on trails and beaches. Users recommend leashing pets and cleaning up after them.
Last updated July 31, 2025