Point Reyes National Seashore Campground
4.46159 reviews1 Bear Valley Road, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
Point Reyes National Seashore Campground
$30.00 - $90.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$90.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$30.00
Group Site Fee$90.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$30/night for individual sites (1-6 people); $60/night for small group sites (7-14 people); $90/night for large group sites (15-25 people). Fees are consistent year-round without peak season variations.
About this campground
Escape to the wild edge of California at Point Reyes National Seashore, where four secluded backcountry campgrounds await those seeking adventure on foot or by bike, plus a hidden boat-in gem nestled along the pristine waters of Tomales Bay. Here, you'll fall asleep to the rhythm of crashing waves and wake to the calls of seabirds, with only the essentials between you and nature—secure food lockers to protect your provisions from curious wildlife, clean vault toilets, and fresh drinking water at each site.
Point Reyes National Seashore Campground features backcountry hike-in, bike-in, and boat-in sites. No car or RV camping is permitted.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of the Coast Miwok people who called this peninsula home for thousands of years, leaving their mark in ancient shell mounds and village sites. This living landscape tells a deeper story too—you're camping directly atop the meeting point of two massive tectonic plates, where the infamous San Andreas Fault has sculpted dramatic cliffs and hidden valleys over millions of years.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the moody beauty of California's Mediterranean coast, where morning fog rolls in like a soft blanket, creating an ethereal landscape that slowly reveals itself as the day warms. Winter storms bring dramatic skies and refreshing rains that turn the hills emerald green, while summer wraps the peninsula in its famous cooling fog—nature's own air conditioning. Pack layers and embrace the ever-present coastal breeze that has shaped this landscape for millennia.
ElevationChoose your adventure by altitude—ascend to Sky Camp's lofty perch at 1,025 feet, where fog often swirls below your tent while you enjoy breakfast with a view that stretches from the Farallon Islands to Mount Tamalpais. Each campground offers its own unique vantage point, from sea-level beach camps to ridge-top aeries that put you eye-to-eye with soaring hawks.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in one of California's most biodiverse landscapes, where windswept beaches give way to tide pools teeming with life, and ancient bishop pine forests provide shelter for bobcats padding silently through the understory. Watch harbor seals lounging on sun-warmed rocks, spot majestic Tule elk grazing in open meadows, and if you're lucky, catch a glimpse of playful river otters in the marshy estuaries. From coastal prairie wildflower displays to mysterious fog-shrouded lagoons, every trail reveals new wonders.
Geological RegionPerched on a peninsula that feels like California's final frontier, Point Reyes is a geological wonderland where the Pacific and North American plates meet in a dramatic dance of creation and destruction. This unique positioning has gifted the area with an extraordinary tapestry of landscapes—from wind-sculpted beaches and tide-carved rocky headlands to serene lagoons and salt marshes. Explore groves of rare bishop pines, wander through coastal scrublands painted with wildflowers, and discover hidden estuaries where fresh and salt waters mingle in nature's own mixing bowl.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited to well-marked trails and easy access to water spigots and vault toilets. No specific ADA accommodations are mentioned.
Sites SizeStandard sites accommodate up to 6 people, and group sites accommodate 7-25 people.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites are described as 'secluded,' while others are closer together or exposed, depending on the campground loop.
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid Coast Camp site #9 due to proximity to pit toilets. For privacy, choose sites at Wildcat Camp or Sky Camp, such as Wildcat site #6 and Sky Camp site #11.
Best CampsitesSky Camp site #11 is noted for its spectacular Farallon views. Wildcat Camp site #7 offers ocean views and relative shelter from wind.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 4 consecutive nights per visit and 30 nights annually.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard sites accommodate up to 6 guests, small group sites allow 7-14, and large group sites can host 15-25 people.
Groups
Group sites accommodate 7-25 people. Sites are reservable at higher rates ($60 for 7-14 people, $90 for 15-25 people). Specific group site locations include Coast Camp and Wildcat Camp.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground is divided into loops: Coast Camp, Glen Camp, Wildcat Camp, Sky Camp, and Tomales Bay Boat-In. Sites are organized for privacy but group sites may be adjacent.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round from January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov, via the app, or through their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFour same-day sites (Coast Camp #9, Glen Camp #10, Sky Camp #1, and Wildcat Camp #8) are released daily online at 7 AM Pacific Time.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled before arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations (after midnight prior to check-in) also forfeit the first night's recreation fee. Group sites require cancellations at least 14 days in advance.
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
Potable water
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Point Reyes National Seashore Campground offers a variety of activities including hiking, bird watching, beach walking, wildlife viewing, and seasonal whale watching. Winter recreation includes observing elephant seals and engaging with unique natural landscapes.
Hiking
The campground features extensive hiking trails, such as the Coast Trail, Sky Trail, and Bear Valley Trail. Trail lengths vary from short hikes to extensive loops, with difficulty levels described as easy to moderate. User reviews frequently highlight the scenic beauty and well-maintained trails, with comments such as 'beautiful campgrounds surrounded by trees' and 'the vibrant green hill hikes and desolate beaches make this place a must stay.'Swimming
Swimming is available at nearby beaches. Tomales Bay and Alamere Falls are popular destinations for water-related activities.Biking
Bike riding is possible along trails such as the Stewart Trail and Sky Trail. Routes are described as strenuous but scenic, with options for both beginner and experienced cyclists.Boating
Boat-in camping is available at Tomales Bay, accessible only by boat. Amenities are minimal, and campers must bring portable toilets, water, and raccoon-proof food storage.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant, with species such as Tule elk, bobcats, seals, and quails frequently mentioned in user reviews. One review highlights sightings of 'harbor seals, harbor porpoises, bobcats, river otters, and more.'Beach activities
Beach activities include exploring tide pools and walking along sandy shores. Alamere Falls is a popular attraction accessible from Wildcat Campground.Winter Activities
Winter activities include whale watching, observing elephant seals, and hiking in scenic winter landscapes.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are popular, especially at Tomales Bay.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are prohibited within backcountry campsites. Beach fire permits may be obtained for use in designated areas.
- Audible music and instruments are prohibited. Quiet hours are enforced, but specific timing is not indicated.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak is prevalent. Wind can be strong, particularly at exposed campsites like Sky Camp. High tides and surf at Alamere Falls beach pose risks to hikers unaware of tidal conditions.
Active alertsSeasonal closures to protect wildlife, including restrictions at certain beaches for dog walking, kayaking, and other activities.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 89%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Bear Valley Visitor Center serves as the local ranger station. The nearest hospitals and police stations are located in Point Reyes Station and San Rafael.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo peak season; rates remain consistent year-round.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are available at all campgrounds. Users frequently praise their convenience, such as 'secured trash bins at each campsite.'
Proximity to water featuresClose to Tomales Bay and beaches along the Point Reyes peninsula. Alamere Falls is a notable nearby water feature accessible by hiking from Wildcat Camp.
Common complaintsIssues with the Recreation.gov reservation system and campsite no-shows. Some sites are affected by poor drainage, poison oak, or proximity to noisy group sites.
HostNo specific campground host information is available. Rangers at Bear Valley Visitor Center provide assistance.
Campground Map
1 Bear Valley Road, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
Driving directionsPoint Reyes is located approximately 50 miles north of San Francisco and can be approached either northbound or southbound via Highway 101 and Exit 450A/B Sir Francis Drake Highway. Visitors can also reach the park via the longer and winding scenic Highway 1 or the Point Reyes-Petaluma Road. Public transportation to the Bear Valley Visitor Center from San Rafael along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard is available through the West Marin Stagecoach.
The campground is accessible from major highways including Highway 101 and scenic Highway 1. Roads are paved and generally well-maintained, though Highway 1 is winding and may pose challenges for some. Trailheads for backcountry camping require hiking or biking in multiple miles, and visitor parking is restricted between midnight and 6 AM except with permits.Nearby places
Point Reyes Station (approximately 4 miles), San Rafael (approximately 30 miles), San Francisco (approximately 50 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies are available in Point Reyes Station, approximately 4 miles from the Bear Valley Visitor Center.
Camper Reviews
4.5
159 reviews
Point Reyes National Seashore Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Point Reyes National Seashore Campground highlight its natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and a range of activities. Common themes include the scenic trails, clean vault toilets, and the challenge of securing reservations due to high demand.
Review Summaries
Based on 159 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the picturesque views, clean and well-stocked facilities, and opportunities for wildlife observation. Users appreciate the 'luxury backpacking...
Based on 159 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include issues with overgrown trails, poison oak near campsites, challenges with the reservation system, and noise from neighboring campers. One user stated, 'The reservation system...
Based on 159 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips for future campers include bringing poison oak wipes, a wind-resistant stove, and extra water containers. Users recommend specific sites for privacy and views, such as 'Sky Camp site 11 is one...
Based on 159 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that winter camping offers solitude and fewer crowds, while summer brings more wildlife activity and better weather for hiking. Spring and fall are noted for vibrant landscapes and...
Based on 159 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Sky trail campground was filled with amazing views, and the Sky Trail was a fairytale to walk through.' 'We hiked into camp fully expecting a loaded camp ground. Instead we found only two other...
Based on 159 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes recommendations for privacy and space, such as 'Coast site 7 has privacy but is farther from water and bathrooms.' Sites at Wildcat Camp are praised for ocean views,...
Based on 159 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are limited but indicate that trails are well-marked and manageable for beginner backpackers. No specific ADA accommodations are mentioned.
Based on 159 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed in any campgrounds, consistent with Point Reyes' pet policy.
Based on 159 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025