Coast Camp
A remote backpacking campsite offering beach access, tide pools, and stunning coastal views. Hike in for a serene escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best access to Sculptured Beach & Crater
Coast Camp
Best Time
Best access to Sculptured Beach & Crater
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remote backpacking campsite offering beach access, tide pools, and stunning coastal views. Hike in for a serene escape.
"Spectacular time with amazing tide pool life and beach access, a perfect beginner backpacking trip!"
🎒 Pack Light!
Backpacking is key. Avoid wagons; they won't work on rocky, steep trails. :backpack:
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Essential for accessing Sculptured Beach & Crater. Plan around low tide. :ocean:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sculptured Beach
Near Coast Camp
Stunning beach with sea caves and tide pools, accessible only at low tide. Explore for sea delicacies and potential crab sightings.
Point Reyes Crater
Short hike from Coast Camp
A unique geological formation best explored during the lowest tide for a limited window of discovery.
Tide Pool Exploration
Beach access from Coast Camp
Discover abundant marine life at low tide, especially around the rocks. A fantastic natural aquarium experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pack Light for the Hike In
Check Tide Charts for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack Light!
Backpacking is key. Avoid wagons; they won't work on rocky, steep trails. :backpack:
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Essential for accessing Sculptured Beach & Crater. Plan around low tide. :ocean:
Tips about first time camping at Point Reyes
Camping help for Point Reyes (end June)
🥾 Water Shoes Recommended
Great for exploring tide pools and rocky areas safely. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Potable Water Available
No need to pack all your water; the camp's water is drinkable. :droplet:
Going to Point Reyes in a few weeks! Need recommendations (will be staying at Coast)
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack Light!
Backpacking is key. Avoid wagons; they won't work on rocky, steep trails. :backpack:
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Essential for accessing Sculptured Beach & Crater. Plan around low tide. :ocean:
🥾 Water Shoes Recommended
Great for exploring tide pools and rocky areas safely. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Potable Water Available
No need to pack all your water; the camp's water is drinkable. :droplet:
📱 Cell Service at Beach
You can get AT&T service at the beach and campsite. :iphone:
🐻 Rodent-Proof Lockers
Use bear boxes/lockers provided and ensure they are properly secured. :bear_face:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Coast Camp for its beautiful beach access, unique tide pools, and suitability as a beginner backpacking destination. The availability of potable water and cell service are noted positives. However, some find the vault toilets to be less than ideal, and fire restrictions can limit beach bonfires.
"My son and I camped at campsite 7 on a late August Thursday night. The reservation was made about two weeks prior. The day was a rare clear day on the coast. We parked at the Laguna Trailhead and backpacked the 1.9 miles to Coast Camp. The first .5 miles is uphill and then the trail flattens out for a while. The last .75 mile is downhill to camp. It was a moderate hike. I did not take hiking poles but I will next time because of pack. We found our campsite easily and the access to the beach. On this clear day the beach was a big draw. We ate all our meals at the beach. The low tide was at 9:30pm so we spent much of the evening checking out the tide pools at the rocks. There was so much animal life. There was not much drift wood so we were not able to have a fire on the beach. The potable water was very drinkable and I will not bother packing water for our next trip. We had a spectacular time and will be back soon.
I have AT&T and had cell service at the beach and campsite"
Tara Ticknor
"Point Reyes Crater was amazing!
We made it on our first try. I tracked the tidal charts for weeks before planning this trip. This was our first time making it to this side of Point Reyes National Seashore and it did not disappoint.
To make the trip to the Crater convenient, we camped out at the Coast Campsite which is literally just a little over a mile from the Crater. To make it without getting wet as much as possible you need to go at the lowest tide. For us on this day it was 6:30 am at -.02. Once you're there you get 20-30 minutes to explore before the tide starts coming back in. Water shoes will make a big difference.
On the way in you'll pass a refreshing waterfall and Sculptured Beach which is stunning. Again, the only way to get into Sculptured Beach is at low tide or swim. There are lots of sea caves to explore and sea delicacies you can harvest from the rocks; muscles, scallops, etc. If you like crab I recommend bringing a few traps while you explore the area. There are crabs everywhere. Make sure to pay attention to the California Fish and Game website for harvesting restrictions. Especially for shell fish.
There was lots of wildlife in the area. Mostly deer and quail. No whales on this trip but we were able to see them on our first two trips out here. There was a skunk that kept trying to bully us in camp at night but it just walked around like it owned the place then went on its way.
The Coast Campground and trail are definitely for backpackers. DO NOT bring a bunch of gear! I made that mistake by bringing a couple of carts worth of stuff and added a layer of complexity to our trip. Fully loaded wagons/carts will not make it down these rocky trails. There are lots of steep elevation changes.
We parked at the Laguna Trail Head. The trail is .8 miles then connects to the Fireline trail which is another 1.2 mile hike to the Coast Campground. Because of our wagons we were told to go the other way around because the Laguna Trail would've eaten up our carts. And they were right. We had to take the other way around which starts right in front of the Point Reyes Hostel. Then from there it's a 4.5 mile hike to the Coast Campground.
#Adventure"
Joey Lombrana
"Good first backpacking experience. If taking the Laguna/Fire trail route, 1.8 miles, beware that it is currently covered in tall grass so take precautions for ticks. Or go the longer route on Coast Trail.
Site 6 was not close to the bathroom or potable water. About a 5mn walk.
Did not end up staying overnight due to the 19mph wind, but it was a really fun day hike with gorgeous views!"
Maria C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common route is the 1.9-mile hike from the Laguna Trailhead, which involves an initial uphill section followed by a downhill stretch to the camp. Alternatively, a longer 4.5-mile hike starts near the Point Reyes Hostel via the Coast Trail. Be prepared for steep elevation changes and rocky terrain.
The Laguna Trailhead is a popular starting point for the shorter hike. However, if you're bringing gear that might be difficult to manage on steep, rocky paths, consider the longer route starting near the Point Reyes Hostel.
It's considered a moderate hike, especially with backpacking gear. The initial uphill and final downhill sections can be challenging for some. Using hiking poles is recommended by some visitors.
No, Coast Camp is a designated backpacking campsite, meaning you must hike in. Vehicle access is not permitted to the campsite itself.
For those who prefer not to backpack, day trips to the beaches near Coast Camp are possible, but overnight stays require hiking in.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, reservations are required for Coast Camp. They can be made in advance, and some visitors have been able to snag last-minute mid-week spots.
Information on specific camping fees is not detailed in the provided content, but reservations are necessary. It's advisable to check the official Point Reyes National Seashore website for current pricing.
As a campsite, Coast Camp is accessible for overnight stays. Day visitors can access the beach and surrounding trails, but specific hours for trail access might vary.
While reservations are the primary requirement for camping, fire permits may be necessary if you plan to have a fire on the beach, which is often restricted due to fire danger.
Cancellation policies are not detailed here. It's best to consult the reservation system's terms and conditions for information on refunds or changes.
🎫 🏕️ Onsite Experience
Coast Camp offers potable water from faucets and vaulted toilets. Each campsite also has a bear box/locker for food storage.
Fires are generally restricted to the beach and may require a permit. There is often very little driftwood available for fires.
Visitors have reported seeing deer, quail, and even skunks. Whales can sometimes be spotted offshore.
Yes, AT&T service is available at the beach and the campsite, allowing for communication.
Sites 8-14 are recommended for families with kids as they are flatter, closer to water and bathrooms, and have more grass. Other sites may be more private but less convenient.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Campfires are restricted to the beach and often have limited driftwood. It's advisable to bring a portable stove for cooking. Food storage in bear boxes is mandatory to protect against rodents and wildlife.
Coast Camp is a remote backpacking site, so there are no dining facilities nearby. You must bring all your own food and be prepared to pack out all trash.
Pack non-perishable, easy-to-prepare meals. Consider items that don't require extensive cooking or refrigeration. Remember to bring all necessary cooking utensils and cleaning supplies.
All food must be stored in the provided bear boxes/lockers at each campsite. Ensure these are properly secured to prevent access by rodents and other wildlife.
While some visitors have harvested mussels and scallops from the rocks, be aware of California Fish and Game regulations for harvesting shellfish and other sea delicacies.
📸 📸 Photography
Sculptured Beach with its sea caves, the unique Point Reyes Crater, and the diverse tide pools offer incredible photographic subjects. The coastal scenery and wildlife also provide great shots.
Early morning and late afternoon light can be stunning for coastal landscapes. Low tide is crucial for photographing the tide pools and Sculptured Beach.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a waterproof camera or protective case might be useful for tide pool exploration.
No specific photography restrictions are mentioned, but always be mindful of the natural environment and any wildlife.
Experiment with different angles to capture the intricate details of the sea caves and rock formations. Shooting at low tide reveals the most dramatic features.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Emphasize packing light and preparing kids for the hike. The beach access and tide pool exploration offer engaging activities for younger visitors. Ensure children understand the importance of food storage in bear boxes and respecting wildlife. The relatively short distance and basic amenities make it a less daunting introduction to backcountry camping.
🎒 Budget Travelers
Focus on packing smart and minimizing unnecessary gear to avoid the need for expensive equipment. Bringing your own food and cooking supplies will be significantly cheaper than relying on external dining options, which are non-existent in this remote location. The natural beauty and activities like tide pooling are free, making it a great value for those seeking an outdoor adventure on a budget.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
Solo travelers can enjoy the tranquility of the beach, the opportunity for introspection while exploring tide pools, and the chance to observe wildlife. While cell service is available for AT&T users, it's always wise for solo hikers to inform someone of their itinerary and expected return time. The bear boxes ensure food security, a key concern for solo campers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Coast Camp: What to Expect
An alternative, longer route of about 4.5 miles begins near the Point Reyes Hostel and follows the Coast Trail. This path is sometimes suggested for those with bulky gear or carts, though the primary trail is generally preferred for its shorter distance. Regardless of the chosen path, be prepared for uneven terrain and potential steep inclines. The effort is rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and the promise of a secluded coastal retreat.
It's crucial to pack light. Heavy wagons or carts are not practical for these trails due to their rocky and steep nature. Focus on essential gear to make the hike enjoyable and manageable. The hike itself offers scenic views and a transition from the inland landscape to the coastal environment, setting the stage for the beach camping experience.
Exploring the Coastal Wonders: Beaches and Tide Pools
The tide pools near Coast Camp are teeming with marine life, providing an incredible opportunity for discovery. At low tide, these natural pools reveal a vibrant ecosystem of sea stars, anemones, small crustaceans, and more. Many visitors find this to be a highlight of their trip, offering a hands-on encounter with coastal biodiversity. Wearing water shoes is highly recommended for navigating the slippery rocks and exploring these areas safely.
Beyond the immediate beach access, the area around Coast Camp is known for its natural beauty and potential for wildlife sightings. While not guaranteed, visitors have reported seeing deer and various bird species. The opportunity to witness the raw power and delicate ecosystems of the Pacific coast makes Coast Camp a compelling destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
Camping Essentials and Etiquette at Coast Camp
Fires are a point of consideration, with restrictions typically limiting them to the beach area and often requiring a permit. The availability of driftwood for fires can be scarce, so planning for alternative cooking methods is wise. Many campers opt for portable stoves. Adhering to fire restrictions is paramount for safety and environmental protection.
Wildlife encounters are common, from small rodents to larger animals like deer and skunks. While generally not aggressive, respecting their space and properly storing food is crucial. The overall etiquette at Coast Camp emphasizes preparedness, respect for the natural environment, and responsible camping practices to ensure a positive experience for all visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit