Reef Campground
01 review19005 Coast Highway One Jenner, CA 95450
Reef Campground
$40.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$40.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Reef Campground charges $40.00 per night for each campsite, which includes one vehicle. An additional vehicle fee is $10.00 per night (maximum of two vehicles per site).
About this campground
Tucked into a secluded cove just south of the storied Fort Ross, Reef Campground beckons adventurous souls seeking an intimate connection with California's dramatic coastline. This hidden gem welcomes tent campers on a first-come, first-served basis, offering an unspoiled retreat where the Pacific's rhythms set the pace. Whether you're drawn to explore underwater worlds while diving, cast a line into promising waters, or simply lose yourself in tide pool discoveries, Reef delivers authentic coastal experiences. Trail seekers, surfers, and wildlife enthusiasts find their bliss here, where migrating whales breach offshore and seabirds dance on ocean breezes.
Reef Campground is a first-come, first-served campground with 20 sites available for tent camping only. RVs, trailers, and campers are not permitted due to site limitations.
Historical SignificanceYour tent sits within the boundaries of Fort Ross State Historic Park, where layers of human history unfold like pages in an ancient book. Before Russian settlers established their southernmost outpost here in 1812, the Kashia Pomo people called these bluffs home for thousands of years. The Russians transformed this windswept coast into a thriving agricultural hub, supporting their Alaskan fur-trading empire with crops and livestock. Later ranching families continued the agricultural legacy, their weathered barns and fences still dotting the landscape. Each sunset here connects you to centuries of dreams, struggles, and stories etched into this remarkable coastline.
Weather and SeasonsThe coast here plays by its own rules, painting each day with an ever-changing palette of fog, sunshine, wind, and mist. Morning's thick marine layer might give way to brilliant afternoon sun, only to welcome evening fog rolling back through the redwoods. Seasoned visitors know the secret: dress in layers and embrace the coast's moody temperament. This dynamic weather creates the perfect atmosphere for those seeking escape from predictable climates, where each visit promises a unique experience shaped by nature's whims.
ElevationWhile specific elevation data remains unrecorded, Reef Campground perches along the coastal terrace where land meets sea, offering campers a front-row seat to the Pacific's endless performance.
Natural Features and SceneryReef Campground occupies one of Northern California's most dramatically sculpted stretches of coastline, where ancient geological forces have carved a masterpiece of cliffs, coves, and rocky outcroppings. At low tide, hidden worlds emerge in crystalline pools teeming with sea stars, anemones, and hermit crabs. The surrounding landscape demands respect—poison oak weaves through the understory and stinging nettles guard secret paths, reminding visitors that this is nature's domain. Yet for those who tread carefully, rewards abound: harbor seals basking on offshore rocks, osprey diving for dinner, and winter gray whales passing close enough to count their barnacles.
Geological RegionReef Campground showcases the raw power of plate tectonics along Northern California's legendary coast, where the Pacific and North American plates grind past each other in slow-motion drama. This collision zone has created a landscape of exceptional diversity—from wave-carved sea stacks to sheltered coves where the ocean's fury transforms to gentle lapping. The complex geology supports an equally rich tapestry of life, from towering redwoods clinging to fog-shrouded ridges to resilient tide pool communities that thrive in the harsh intertidal zone. This meeting of land and sea represents millions of years of Earth's sculptural artistry.
Campsite details
AccessibilityChemical toilets and fire rings are available, but no specific accessibility features are mentioned for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as small and can accommodate up to six people and two vehicles.
Sites PrivacyNo detailed information about campsite privacy is provided.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites based on proximity to ocean views or shade, but avoid areas with poison oak and stinging nettles.
Best CampsitesBest campsite recommendations are not specifically mentioned in official sources or user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1PM
Check-out
11 AM
Stay Limit
- Limited to first-come, first-served basis without reservations
- visitors should confirm extended stays at the time of purchase.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six people per campsite, which must adhere to guidelines.
Groups
Group sites are not mentioned in the available information.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 20 small campsites set in a loop. Tent camping only; no RVs or trailers permitted due to road constraints.
Open and Closed SeasonReef Campground is closed during the off-season and reopens in the spring.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not accepted; camping is strictly on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up and first-come, first-served. Visitors should check availability at the Fort Ross Visitor Center before self-registering.
Cancellation PolicyRefunds cannot be issued once payment is made using self-registration at the campground kiosk. Visitors should confirm availability before paying.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Reef Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, emphasizing its proximity to Fort Ross. Visitors can enjoy hiking, diving, fishing, surfing, whale watching, bird watching, tide pooling, and picnicking, as well as exploring historical trails leading to Fort Ross State Historic Park.
Hiking
Several hiking trails are accessible from Reef Campground, including paths that lead to Fort Ross. Bicycles are not permitted on trails but can be ridden on camp roads.Fishing
Fishing is allowed, but the take of abalone is prohibited. Current regulations should be consulted for more details.Biking
Biking is permitted on camp roads, and helmets are required for all riders.Wildlife viewing
Bird watching and whale watching are popular activities. Common wildlife includes raccoons, ravens, and squirrels.Beach activities
Visitors can explore tide pools and relax in the sun at a secluded cove south of Fort Ross.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned for Reef Campground.Water Sports
Diving and surfing are popular water activities at Reef Campground, suited to its coastal location.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only within metal fire rings provided at campsites. Gathering wood from the park is prohibited, but firewood can be purchased at the Fort Ross Visitor Center.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include poison oak, stinging nettles, and wildlife such as raccoons, ravens, and squirrels. Visitors are advised to secure food in locked containers and avoid feeding animals.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned at the time of review.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 100%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Foggy
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
Nearest emergency services are in Jenner, CA, approximately 12 miles south, including local fire stations and police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpring to early fall when the campground reopens after the seasonal closure.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are provided within the campground, and campers are encouraged to respect wildlife by properly storing food items to avoid attracting raccoons, ravens, and squirrels.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Pacific Ocean with access to tide pools and sandy beach areas.
Common complaintsSome users expressed dissatisfaction with seasonal closures and limitations for camping vehicles. User-review excerpts highlight concerns about accessibility for larger vehicles and the absence of reservations.
HostConservancy staff service the campground between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM daily. Contact Fort Ross Conservancy for additional information.
Campground Map
19005 Coast Highway One Jenner, CA 95450
Driving directionsThe park is 12 miles north of Jenner on Highway One. From Highway 101, there are two routes: 1) From Petaluma, take the East Washington Street exit west, leading to Bodega Avenue, which transitions into Highway 1 North to Bodega Bay. Follow Highway 1 North to Jenner. 2) From Santa Rosa, take the River Road exit west, transitioning to Highway 116 in Guerneville. Follow Highway 116 west and then Highway 1 North to Jenner and Fort Ross.
Roads leading to the campground are paved but winding. Seasonal closures may apply to the campground. Challenging terrain and narrow roads require cautious driving, particularly for larger vehicles.Nearby places
Santa Rosa — 1.5 hours
San Francisco — 2.5 hours
Fort Bragg — 2 hours
Sacramento — 3.5 hours
Petaluma — approximately 1 hour.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found at Jenner Sea Store, roughly 10 miles south of the campground. Additional supplies are available at Fort Ross Store north of Fort Ross.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Reef Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reef Campground is praised for its secluded location and natural beauty but has limited amenities such as drinking water and restroom facilities. "It was small and not set-up for RV's so it kept some of the riffraff out," commented one reviewer, emphasizing the appeal of a quieter camping experience. Negative feedback primarily addresses closures and reduced accessibility.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the campground's proximity to Fort Ross and the variety of activities such as hiking, bird watching, and tide pooling. Its secluded location provides a relaxing environment.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints center on the lack of potable water, absence of RV hookups, and closures during the off-season. "Fires must be confined to the metal fire rings provided by the park," which limits campers'...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own drinking water and firewood, as these are not readily available on-site. Campers should confirm campsite availability, especially during peak seasons, and review fishing regulations.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Visitors note that the campground is closed during the winter season and recommend spring and summer as the best times to visit.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The State of California is really F-ing up. They closed this campground. It was a great campground." "You could hear the ocean from the sites, so you did not hear and rarely saw other campers."
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite numbers and detailed reviews are not provided.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no detailed reviews addressing accessibility for campers with disabilities.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are permitted but must be leashed and controlled at all times. Visitors are reminded to clean up after their pets and prevent them from harassing wildlife.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025