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This campground really makes you work for the seclusion! Tomales Bay Campground is a boat-in-only campground that is a prime spot to enjoy the serene bay. So if you have a boat or even a kayak, you can experience this unique gem where you’ll have access to some of the most beautiful nature in Northern California. Perhaps best of all, this Northern California campground is open year-round, increasing your chances of having it all to yourselves.
This campground is located within Point Reyes National Seashore– a massive area with beautiful terrain and wildlife.
From this campground, campers can explore Tomales Bay on a kayak or other watercraft. There are also several nearby trails that meander into the lush meadows overlooking the ocean.
People who have made the journey to this campground talk about their experience for years.
Be prepared to see some animals in the wild! Did you know Point Reyes National Seashore has the greatest avian diversity of any national park? You just might see several types of curlews, owls, and even bald eagles.
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The camping area is located on the west-side, beyond Indian Beach and Duck Cove.
These pristine beaches are characterized by small sandy coves with steep cliffs. Access to Tomales Bay beaches is exclusively by boat, with restrictions on hiking, biking, or horseback riding to maintain their natural beauty.
Reservations are required, as well as a permit. This permit can be secured three months in advance of your camping trip. Make sure you carry your permit (usually in the form of a confirmation email) so you can present it to the park rangers on the water or at the beach.
Figure out how many campers are in your group before obtaining a permit.
Large groups of 15 or more are required to camp on designated beaches. Consult the Tomales Bay Boat-In Camping Map to figure out which is your preferred beach for camping.
While embracing the rustic charm of the campground, be mindful that there is no potable water available. Campers are advised to pack all necessary water for cooking and drinking.
Past campers have advised to not pitch your tent too close to the water as the tides can change drastically in some areas. To find out where to park, see the map, and read more about preparing for a trip to this campsite visit Recreation.gov.
Despite the rustic camping conditions, the chance to explore the most secluded areas of Tomales Bay and Point Reyes National Seashore is a truly worthwhile experience.
After your camping trip, be sure to stop by the tiny town of Point Reyes Station to wander around and buy a delicious iced coffee from Toby’s Coffee Bar.
Tomales Bay Campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a bucket-list campground in Northern California.
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