The best luxury RV parks near Dillon Beach, California

Just a 90-minute drive from San Francisco, Dillon Beach is a great spot to escape Bay Area life and reconnect with the Northern California coast. This Marin County town sits on Bodega Bay, right across the water from Point Reyes, and is close to all the region’s rugged coastal highlights—beaches, surfing, hiking trails, fresh seafood—as well as the redwoods and hot springs of wine country. While there are a couple of private camping options in Dillon Beach, many travelers set up camp in the area’s many public parks, such as Samuel P. Taylor State Park, Sonoma Coast State Park, Doran Regional Park, and the Point Reyes National Seashore—although all are incredibly popular and warrant far-in-advance reservations.

96% (553)

Top-rated campgrounds

Just a 90-minute drive from San Francisco, Dillon Beach is a great spot to escape Bay Area life and reconnect with the Northern California coast. This Marin County town sits on Bodega Bay, right across the water from Point Reyes, and is close to all the region’s rugged coastal highlights—beaches, surfing, hiking trails, fresh seafood—as well as the redwoods and hot springs of wine country. While there are a couple of private camping options in Dillon Beach, many travelers set up camp in the area’s many public parks, such as Samuel P. Taylor State Park, Sonoma Coast State Park, Doran Regional Park, and the Point Reyes National Seashore—although all are incredibly popular and warrant far-in-advance reservations.

96% (553)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Stemple Creek Ranch

95%

(63)

4.2mi from Dillon Beach · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tomales, CA

Stemple Creek Ranch is an organic cattle ranch in Marin County, CA. Our property is private and picturesque. We have several camping locations on the ranch and also two small cabins and a small farmhouse available. Our campsites change between a few spots based on the weather and where our livestock are at the moment. All of the campsite locations are beautiful and have been enjoyed by many guests. We look forward to sharing our land with you!

2. Barn Side - Site 3 -91C

99%

(69)

25mi from Dillon Beach · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Healdsburg, CA

We are conveniently located off of US 101, therefore there may be some freeway noise, during commute hours especially. It has become like white noise to me, but it is only fair to mention it. We offer full hookups which consists of 50 amp & 110 volt electrical outlets, potable water, sewage dump. We also have one pigtail available (with a refundable deposit) if needed to convert 50 amp to 30 amp. We also have one place in the middle of our big vineyards with a 30 amp and water only. No sewer. Our sites are located one mile from Healdsburg plaza, the heart of Sonoma County Wine Country. Our town offers amazing wineries, fantastic restaurants, and quaint shops. It is an excellent place for wine lovers. There is a pre-prohibition winery right across the road called Foppiano. There are many other fabulous wineries are nearby. Ask the host for discount passes or complimentary tasting cards for some of the local wineries. We are in an excellent location for outdoor adventurers. There are plenty of hiking trails near by as well as bike rental shops for those who enjoy trekking, and even a couple of rafting places right here on the Russian River. We are close to places like Armstrong Woods, Safari West, Getaway Adventures, The Sonoma County Fairgrounds which hosts the Summer Country Concerts among other events, Harmony Festival, Santa Rosa Full Camp; Half Marathons Camp; 5K, Sonoma Zip-line Adventures, and Much More! For you foodies there are Savor Food Tours, Relish Culinary Adventures in addition to all the incredible restaurants in town. There is so much to do and see in our beautiful part of the world. Hope to see you soon.

3. Wild Canyon Ranch CA

99%

(39)

34mi from Dillon Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV · Calistoga, CA

Nestled in Calistoga on the western flank of Mt. Saint Helena, Wild Canyon Ranch's 156 acres encompasses some of the most diverse land in the state. Pastures, ponds, waterfalls, swimming holes, hiking and more leaves everybody who visits wanting a trip extension. Hang out with our farm animals, or take a tour of the Dye Flower garden all while listening to the streams and waterfalls nearby. Our property has a capacity of 1-30 guests providing campsites and parking. Additional items for larger groups may be required(i.e portable toilets, garbage cans, etc) The scenic mountain road is a short distance from Calistoga, CA with groceries and many offsite activities within 20 minutes of the ranch, though we doubt you will want to leave! We have miles of developed hiking trails of all skill levels. A bath house has been built for our guests as well which incorporates a shower room, toilet room, with a covered indoor/outdoor kitchen area with a sink. Come get your recharge at Wild Canyon Ranch CA. We look forward to having you.

4. Pine Grove Cobb Resort

94%

(370)

42mi from Dillon Beach · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cobb, CA

The historic Pine Grove Cobb Resort offers a unique lodging and event location in the beautiful Northern California Mountains, 30 minutes from California’s wine country. Ideal for family reunions, group retreats and relaxing private getaways, we offer sleeping accommodations for up to 30 people and room for many more to camp, gather and celebrate. Commune with nature at Pine Grove Cobb Resort, nestled in 30 acres of the Northern California Mayacamas Mountain Range. Take a walk through the property, cool off in the year-round Cobb Creek or take a dip in the Mountain Spring water, non-chlorinated pool. Get ready to enjoy wood fired pizza and other delectable treats from our Cob Pizza Oven which is the perfect spot to enjoy a cozy evening with family and friends. The property also offers a large chlorinated swimming pool with diving board, water slide and kiddy pools. In summer season a poolside grill serves up yummy food. We have cabins, glamping and group tent camping available - as well as our Sanctuary Treehouse, a Hipcamp favorite.

5. Golden Rocks Permaculture Farm

90%

(133)

47mi from Dillon Beach · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Middletown, CA

Our farm is facing southeast towards the Barriessa Ridge and BLM land. Vast open space with sweeping view for days! We tend to 2 acres of oak forest and 1 acre of grasslands, together make up our Wildlife Corridor. We have resident flocks of quail and acorn woodpeckers, occasionally we spot endangered species like monarch butterflies and Pileated Woodpeckers, as well as roaming deer and many other wild critters. Goats, chickens and horses reside nearby as well. Beautiful sunrises and moonrises, and the cleanest air California! Stars so bright you will never forget them! Very little light pollution, and very low EMFs. We are a working permaculture farm with beautiful organic market gardens, a young orchard, and interesting natural building projects in progress. We cultivate and sell medicinal and culinary herbs and herbal formulas, and amazing teas. You will be able to purchase farm-fresh produce. We offer 2 indoor rooms, a private art studio, and several camping platforms, all with a view. Camping amenities include outdoor shower and bath (private forest setting), shared outhouses and an outdoor community kitchen for you to use!. Campfires only allowed during the months when California's Burn Ban is not in place. There is a covered area for your ice chest, and a safe kitchen for you to set up your cooking stove. ABSOLUTELY NO FIRES OR FLAMES IN THE CAMP GROUND AREA as we are very fire-prone during the summer months. Indoor rooms include shared kitchen, indoor bath/shower, as well as shared living space with a cozy fireplace always roaring in the winter months, and air conditioning during the summer. All guests can "Free Range" to their heart's content, taking in gardens, works of natural building art, wildlife sighting, unoccupied camp decks for meditation, sunning, yoga, stargazing or just hanging out in good company. We offer services such as Farm to Fork meals, intuitive body work, lessons in garden art, natural building, sculpted cob, playing with plasters, herbal walks and medicine-making, as well as homesteading skills (gardening, jam-making and other forms of preserving foods, etc)

6. Thanktuary Retreat

96%

(115)

50mi from Dillon Beach · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gualala, CA

Learn more about this land: The winds whisper through the redwood trees and provide respite from the hot sun. Here on the ridge above Gualala, lies nestled a lovely and serene campground called Thanktuary Retreat. Skunks, jackrabbits, deer, foxes and very rarely a mountain lion or bear can be found on our 5 acres of forested land. There is a fishpond with water lilies, mini golf course and pétanque court (both with equipment in a useful shed close by), a horse shoe ring and beautiful, natural secluded spots in the redwoods perfect for meditation and vision questing. Huckleberry bushes and ferns grow abundantly. The place lends itself to self-reflection and introspection. There is space for 1 RV with a patio table and chairs and some sun loungers. There are also 2 tent sites available on the property, located in one large area, further away from the RV sites. Barely 7 minutes away is downtown Gualala, with amenities such as 2 supermarkets, pharmacy, bakery, restaurants and more. There is a beautiful holistic gift store, The Sea Trader, Four Eyed Frog Bookstore, and some lovely art galleries in town.   Kayaking is available at the Gualala River. Hiking at Gualala Regional Park, the Bluff Trail, The Sea Ranch public access beaches, Stump Beach, Salt Point Park with a petrified forest, Bowling Ball Beach with its amazing natural formations (can only be seen fully at low tide of more than -0.2m), Manchester State Beach, Elk Beach, and more. Swimming at the Navarro River, and various bays. It is a place of incredible scenic beauty all along CA 1. Watch whales spouting during whale season. (Gray whales and orcas is December to May. For humpbacks, visit May through November, and for blue whales, the largest animal on Earth, plan your stay between July and October). Bower Park, just 0.5 miles away with a lovely lake, tennis courts, a baseball field, a basketball court, and two separate playgrounds. Play disc golf or hike along the nature trail/fitness course. Anchor Bay is 5 miles up CA 1, with a supermarket, a few cafes, restaurants (including a great Thai place!) laundromat, hair salon, and more. The quaint town of Point Arena is 12 miles north, with a supermarket, Frannie's Cup And Saucer, The Bird Cafe, a beautiful historic lighthouse, a theater, a pier, a mini-safari park (B Bryan Preserve with zebras, giraffes and more. Tours need to be booked in advance). Also visit Roots, a natural pharmacy for herbs, teas and supplements.  There are also spots like Occidental, Bodega Bay, Jenner (with the Russian River to kayak and swim) and Timber Cove, all on the way to Gualala from the south. Bodega Bay has lovely spots to eat, with clam chowder, fish and chips. Enjoy wind and water sports, and walk on the pier.

7. Quiet Retreat near Hot Springs

47mi from Dillon Beach · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Lower Lake, CA

Welcome to your private nature retreat — a safe, gated 10-acre wonderland where you can find your perfect spot to camp. Set amidst ancient volcanoes, unique minerals, abundant wildlife, and nearby wineries, this land offers singing birds, millions of stars on clear nights, peaceful deer, a secluded frog pond, open meadows, and oak and spruce woods to explore. The weather is lush in spring, warm to hot in summertime, colorful in fall, and crisp in winter. You’ll be just a short 20-minute drive from Harbin Hot Springs and 10 minutes from grocery stores (including Grocery Outlet!) for easy resupply, plus only minutes from local wineries. This is a newly purchased piece of land owned by a dancer/yogi/healer, and as a guest in this new era of the land, you’re invited to help beautify it during your stay — plant a seed, create a labyrinth, or leave a small touch of your own inspiration.

Camper favorites near Dillon Beach

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Pine Grove Cobb Resort

94%

(370)

42mi from Dillon Beach · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cobb, CA

The historic Pine Grove Cobb Resort offers a unique lodging and event location in the beautiful Northern California Mountains, 30 minutes from California’s wine country. Ideal for family reunions, group retreats and relaxing private getaways, we offer sleeping accommodations for up to 30 people and room for many more to camp, gather and celebrate. Commune with nature at Pine Grove Cobb Resort, nestled in 30 acres of the Northern California Mayacamas Mountain Range. Take a walk through the property, cool off in the year-round Cobb Creek or take a dip in the Mountain Spring water, non-chlorinated pool. Get ready to enjoy wood fired pizza and other delectable treats from our Cob Pizza Oven which is the perfect spot to enjoy a cozy evening with family and friends. The property also offers a large chlorinated swimming pool with diving board, water slide and kiddy pools. In summer season a poolside grill serves up yummy food. We have cabins, glamping and group tent camping available - as well as our Sanctuary Treehouse, a Hipcamp favorite.

Golden Rocks Permaculture Farm

90%

(133)

47mi from Dillon Beach · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Middletown, CA

Our farm is facing southeast towards the Barriessa Ridge and BLM land. Vast open space with sweeping view for days! We tend to 2 acres of oak forest and 1 acre of grasslands, together make up our Wildlife Corridor. We have resident flocks of quail and acorn woodpeckers, occasionally we spot endangered species like monarch butterflies and Pileated Woodpeckers, as well as roaming deer and many other wild critters. Goats, chickens and horses reside nearby as well. Beautiful sunrises and moonrises, and the cleanest air California! Stars so bright you will never forget them! Very little light pollution, and very low EMFs. We are a working permaculture farm with beautiful organic market gardens, a young orchard, and interesting natural building projects in progress. We cultivate and sell medicinal and culinary herbs and herbal formulas, and amazing teas. You will be able to purchase farm-fresh produce. We offer 2 indoor rooms, a private art studio, and several camping platforms, all with a view. Camping amenities include outdoor shower and bath (private forest setting), shared outhouses and an outdoor community kitchen for you to use!. Campfires only allowed during the months when California's Burn Ban is not in place. There is a covered area for your ice chest, and a safe kitchen for you to set up your cooking stove. ABSOLUTELY NO FIRES OR FLAMES IN THE CAMP GROUND AREA as we are very fire-prone during the summer months. Indoor rooms include shared kitchen, indoor bath/shower, as well as shared living space with a cozy fireplace always roaring in the winter months, and air conditioning during the summer. All guests can "Free Range" to their heart's content, taking in gardens, works of natural building art, wildlife sighting, unoccupied camp decks for meditation, sunning, yoga, stargazing or just hanging out in good company. We offer services such as Farm to Fork meals, intuitive body work, lessons in garden art, natural building, sculpted cob, playing with plasters, herbal walks and medicine-making, as well as homesteading skills (gardening, jam-making and other forms of preserving foods, etc)

Thanktuary Retreat

96%

(115)

50mi from Dillon Beach · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gualala, CA

Learn more about this land: The winds whisper through the redwood trees and provide respite from the hot sun. Here on the ridge above Gualala, lies nestled a lovely and serene campground called Thanktuary Retreat. Skunks, jackrabbits, deer, foxes and very rarely a mountain lion or bear can be found on our 5 acres of forested land. There is a fishpond with water lilies, mini golf course and pétanque court (both with equipment in a useful shed close by), a horse shoe ring and beautiful, natural secluded spots in the redwoods perfect for meditation and vision questing. Huckleberry bushes and ferns grow abundantly. The place lends itself to self-reflection and introspection. There is space for 1 RV with a patio table and chairs and some sun loungers. There are also 2 tent sites available on the property, located in one large area, further away from the RV sites. Barely 7 minutes away is downtown Gualala, with amenities such as 2 supermarkets, pharmacy, bakery, restaurants and more. There is a beautiful holistic gift store, The Sea Trader, Four Eyed Frog Bookstore, and some lovely art galleries in town.   Kayaking is available at the Gualala River. Hiking at Gualala Regional Park, the Bluff Trail, The Sea Ranch public access beaches, Stump Beach, Salt Point Park with a petrified forest, Bowling Ball Beach with its amazing natural formations (can only be seen fully at low tide of more than -0.2m), Manchester State Beach, Elk Beach, and more. Swimming at the Navarro River, and various bays. It is a place of incredible scenic beauty all along CA 1. Watch whales spouting during whale season. (Gray whales and orcas is December to May. For humpbacks, visit May through November, and for blue whales, the largest animal on Earth, plan your stay between July and October). Bower Park, just 0.5 miles away with a lovely lake, tennis courts, a baseball field, a basketball court, and two separate playgrounds. Play disc golf or hike along the nature trail/fitness course. Anchor Bay is 5 miles up CA 1, with a supermarket, a few cafes, restaurants (including a great Thai place!) laundromat, hair salon, and more. The quaint town of Point Arena is 12 miles north, with a supermarket, Frannie's Cup And Saucer, The Bird Cafe, a beautiful historic lighthouse, a theater, a pier, a mini-safari park (B Bryan Preserve with zebras, giraffes and more. Tours need to be booked in advance). Also visit Roots, a natural pharmacy for herbs, teas and supplements.  There are also spots like Occidental, Bodega Bay, Jenner (with the Russian River to kayak and swim) and Timber Cove, all on the way to Gualala from the south. Bodega Bay has lovely spots to eat, with clam chowder, fish and chips. Enjoy wind and water sports, and walk on the pier.

Quiet Retreat near Hot Springs

47mi from Dillon Beach · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Lower Lake, CA

Welcome to your private nature retreat — a safe, gated 10-acre wonderland where you can find your perfect spot to camp. Set amidst ancient volcanoes, unique minerals, abundant wildlife, and nearby wineries, this land offers singing birds, millions of stars on clear nights, peaceful deer, a secluded frog pond, open meadows, and oak and spruce woods to explore. The weather is lush in spring, warm to hot in summertime, colorful in fall, and crisp in winter. You’ll be just a short 20-minute drive from Harbin Hot Springs and 10 minutes from grocery stores (including Grocery Outlet!) for easy resupply, plus only minutes from local wineries. This is a newly purchased piece of land owned by a dancer/yogi/healer, and as a guest in this new era of the land, you’re invited to help beautify it during your stay — plant a seed, create a labyrinth, or leave a small touch of your own inspiration.

Stories from the community

W

William

2 weeks ago

28 ft travel trailer

7 nights at Barn Side - Site 3 -91C

The entire grounds are very nice and clean …the place has a great vibe for a long weekend away.

Loanne

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

6 nights at Barn Side - Site 3 -91C

A returning visitor to this barn side location in the heart of vineyards and olive trees, it is a great spot when exploring Sonoma County. Host Lorri and Greg are welcoming and I look forward to my next stay.

J

Jackie

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

3 nights at Barn Side - Site 3 -91C

Great spot for enjoying Healdsburg, wine country, and the surrounding area. It’s hard to find places to park so close to town, we’re so happy to have discovered this one. It’s level on gravel, has a picnic table and a nice view of a little vineyard. Best of all - full hookups. Lorri is kind and welcoming, making sure we were settled in and offering wine tasting coupons. Looking forward to our next stay!

D

Daniel

November 2025

44 ft Class C

1 night at Stemple Creek Ranch

After a week in the bustle of Carmel and Carmel Valley we needed a quiet place to stay going north. A three plus hour drive to the ranch was enough. Having a perfect place to camp by ourselves and not having to deal with anyone was ideal. A few cows came up the fence and checked us out. The night was dark and very quiet and being treated as a capable adults and taking care of ourselves was ideal. Will definitely stay there again.

C

Cheryl

October 2025

27 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Barn Side - Site 3 -91C

Lorri was a helpful and responsive host. I would recommend this site as the location is incredible.

Lauren

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Pine Grove Cobb Resort

Great space in the mountain for last minute camping. The bathrooms are clean, the pool is beautiful. Overall highly recommend.

r

ryan

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wild Canyon Ranch CA

Tyler was a great host and his place was the perfect spot for a weekend camping trip with friends! Tyler helped prepped everything we asked for before we arrived and stayed in communication throughout the stay to help with our requests. The place itself is beautiful with places and animals to explore for the group.

D

Doug

October 2025

24 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Barn Side - Site 3 -91C

Great location and facilities and great host. Came for Asti Tour di Vines 100K bike ride, did Eastside/Westside day before and after right from camp.

L

Lorrie

September 2025

25 ft travel trailer

6 nights at Barn Side - Site 3 -91C

We loved the campsite. It was close to town and wineries. Lorri the owner was very nice. She sells her olive oil she makes from the trees on her property. I would defiantly recommend staying here. Our site was Vineyard site B-1. She gave us suggestions on wineries to visit and restaurants.

New 2025 heifer calf!!! Come let your heart melt!❤️🔥

M

Molly

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wild Canyon Ranch CA

We took a pre-school class camping at Tyler’s place! We really had a great time. The kitchen and bathroom worked great even though we had close to 30 people at max. The donkeys and cows were a huge hit. The property provided plenty of space to roam and explore so the kids had a great time. The hike to the creek was a bit more intense than we realized but the creek itself was great! Just a very big climb back to home. Overall both the kids and the adults had a spectacular time and we plan to come again

C

Chris

September 2025

19 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Thanktuary Retreat

Thank you so much Veena and David! Amazing experience at your beautiful hipcamp! Hot tub was so great under a star filled sky and the bathrooms and showers were so clean and well stocked! Chris

Tatum

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wild Canyon Ranch CA

We had an amazing time at this fantastic campground! The location is beautiful, super private and peaceful, with lovely sunsets and sunrises. The stars at night were spectacular with no light pollution. Plenty of space for our group of four families to spread out, and the kids had a great time and loved the donkeys and Highland cows. It was very helpful having a fridge, toilet/shower, gas fire, and camp stove on site. Tyler, the owner, was very helpful and welcoming. He met us when we arrived to make sure we had everything we needed. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a relaxing, family-friendly place to camp!

S

Sandra

September 2025

32 ft Class C

2 nights at Barn Side - Site 3 -91C

We very much enjoyed the Hipcamp. It was within walking distance to a winery. Lorri gave us a lot of coupons for tastings and we used several of them. The area is quiet, close to town and very clean and wonderful. Loved being by the vineyard on the day they harvested the grapes. Highly recommend this beautiful place

L

Lee

September 2025

27 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Barn Side - Site 3 -91C

Thank you so much for your hospitality! Lorri was easy to speak with and made sure all of our needs were met. The proximity to the wedding and venue we were attending was so close. We were able extend for an extra night.

J

Juliette and

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Stemple Creek Ranch

Beautiful camping sunset spot in the cypress and eucalyptus grove!

A

Andrea

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Pine Grove Cobb Resort

We loved the group camp at Pine Grove. The bathrooms and showers were close by and well kept, the pool and creek were great for cooling off and keeping the kiddos busy. We definitely will be back.

Roman

August 2025

19 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Thanktuary Retreat

Clean and comfortable bathroom, cosy hot tub. They offer some entertainment - we've seen several small "greens" for golf training and horseshoes game. Beautiful Asian-style pond for Buddhist meditation

A

Audrey

August 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wild Canyon Ranch CA

We had such a wonderful stay at Tyler’s campground while celebrating a birthday with family! Tyler was an above-and-beyond host—so responsive, helpful, and thoughtful. The natural spring water throughout the property was so fresh and delicious, and we all loved meeting Banjo and Jenny, the donkeys, who greeted us with excited heehaws when we arrived. When we realized we forgot a coffee grinder, Tyler came to the rescue, which made our mornings that much better. The waterfall was incredible, especially in the hot and dry weather—it was refreshing and absolutely worth the trek down, ripe blackberry bushes lined the trail halfway down providing a delightful pick-me-up. We’d love to come back. Thank you, Tyler, for making our stay so special!

T

Thomas

August 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Wild Canyon Ranch CA

One of the best places for family or friends to gather. The campsite is private and peaceful, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Tylar is a lovely guy—don’t hesitate to talk with him because he responds quickly and clearly to any questions. Unfortunately, I had to leave earlier than planned due to personal reasons, but I will come back again. Highly recommended!

M

Maureen

August 2025

19 ft Class B

1 night at Thanktuary Retreat

My husband and I stayed at the here recently and it was as described. The bathroom/showers were very clean and wonderful after a few days on the road. Our spot for our 19.7 ft van and pups was perfect. Communication was excellent. If we are on the coast again I’d definitely stay here again. It’s a great place to stop and recharge.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best luxury RV parks near Dillon Beach guide

Where to go

Point Reyes National Seashore

Across the water from Dillon Beach is the Point Reyes National Seashore, a protected swath of Pacific Coast with opportunities to hike coastal bluffs, lay out on sandy beaches, and spot elephant seals or Tule Elk. Time your visit right for a chance to see the seasonal Alamere Falls or wildflowers. And don’t miss the chance to stock up on farm fresh groceries or sample local Tomales Bay oysters when passing through Point Reyes Station.

Inland and Wine Country

Head inland from Dillon Beach and you’ll have an array of wine country attractions to explore, like the peaceful redwood groves at the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. There are also many campgrounds, hot springs, spas, and vineyards to visit throughout Napa, Sonoma, and Mendocino.

Sonoma Coast State Park

With 17 miles of beaches, Sonoma Coast State Park is one of the largest beach parks in the Dillon Beach area. It features tide pools with anemones, mollusks, seaweeds, and starfish. It also has a 5-mile trail system for hiking and horseback riding. Sonoma Coast State Park borders the Russian River, a popular floating and rafting route in summer. Harbor seals are often found at the river’s mouth.

Bodega Bay

Just up the road from Dillon Beach, Bodega Bay features a cluster of unique beach parks. They include Bodega Head (bluff hiking), Bodega Dunes Beach, and Salmon Creek State Beach.

When to go

Dillon Beach is temperate and accessible to campers year-round. California coast mornings are often foggy and damp, even in summer before the sun comes out and highs are in the 60s (it’s a good idea to bring a jacket and rain gear year-round). If you plan to visit Dillon Beach on a warm summer’s day, be prepared to deal with crowds and notoriously bad traffic. Winter visitors can expect temps in the mid-40s and the possibility of rain, but may be rewarded with fewer crowds. Spring wildflowers are most abundant in March and April.