Yurts near Point Reyes Station

The old railway town of Point Reyes Station is more than just a cool stop north of San Francisco. It serves as the gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore—a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts in Northern California. Craggy ridges, foggy meadows, and sandy beaches all meet in this unique coastal landscape.

The park itself boasts a jaw-dropping 150 miles of hiking trails, 80 miles of shoreline, and several quiet bays for kayaking. You might even spot elephant seals sunning themselves in the spring and winter. Keep an eye out for herds of Tule elk near Tomales Point if you're camping in the fall.

Keep in mind there are no developed campgrounds in this national park. On the other hand, the secluded hike-in and boat-in camps deliver an unmatched wilderness experience. The hikes range from 1.8 to 6.3 miles, all starting from trailheads at the Bear Valley Visitor Center.

Sky Camp is nestled on the hillside of Mt. Whittenberg, featuring single and group sites. Meanwhile, Wildcat Camp (horses welcome) is just a short walk from photo-worthy Alamere Falls. If you want to camp in a Redwood Valley, Glen Camp is your go-to spot.

Looking to sleep near the ocean? Coast Camp is steps away from remote beaches and tide pools. Camping on Tomales Bay is boat-in only, and the rustic sites are strictly pack-in, pack-out. Pro tip: all camps require a reservation, and they're wildly popular. Secure your spot well in advance to beat the rush.

For a more laid-back camping experience, a number of private campgrounds near Point Reyes Station offer tent and RV camping. you can also check out the state parks in West Marin, including Samuel P. Taylor State Park.

Like other spots on the California coastline, Point Reyes has great camping weather year round. Bring a windbreaker for unexpected foggy spells, and pack sturdy hiking shoes for the rugged terrain. If you're beach camping, keep your eyes on the tide—you don't want your gear getting swept away.