The allure of the Northern California coast is undeniable. Imagine a scenic drive along winding roads, the Pacific Ocean a constant companion. Envision pitching your tent just steps from the sand, lulled to sleep by the rhythmic crash of waves, and waking to the cheerful barks of harbor seals basking in the morning sun. This dream can become a reality at several stunning locations stretching from Santa Cruz County all the way to the northernmost reaches of California. These coastal havens offer the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Pacific, with dramatic cliffs, iconic sea stacks, and unforgettable sunsets painting the horizon.
This guide unveils ten exceptional spots where you can experience the magic of beach camping in Northern California. Each location offers a distinct charm, catering to different preferences and camping styles. From well-equipped campgrounds with modern amenities to more secluded, rustic experiences, there’s a perfect beachside escape waiting for you. Prepare to discover the unparalleled joy of camping right on the beach, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready to explore the best of 10 Northern California Spots Where You Can Camp Right on the Beach.
1. Sunset State Beach
Located a comfortable 16 miles south of the vibrant city of Santa Cruz, Sunset State Beach offers a camping experience that many would consider "just right." Unlike some exposed coastal campsites, Sunset State Beach boasts the welcome embrace of shady pine trees, providing respite from the sun and a sense of tranquility. The beauty of this location lies in its proximity to the beach – a mere minute or two stroll will have you sinking your toes into the cool sand.
This popular campground features over 90 campsites, catering to both tent campers and RV enthusiasts, with nine sites specifically designated for RVs. While hookups aren’t available for RVs, the campground provides convenient amenities such as coin-operated hot showers, piped water, and well-maintained restrooms. Sunset State Beach is a highly sought-after destination, especially during peak season. Planning ahead is crucial to secure your spot. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance through ReserveCalifornia, with nightly rates starting at $35.
- Address: Sunset State Beach, Watsonville, CA 95076, USA
- Phone: +1 831-763-7063
- Amenities: Restrooms, coin-operated showers, piped water.
- Reservations: ReserveCalifornia
2. Seacliff State Beach
Seacliff State Beach is a destination brimming with unique attractions and breathtaking scenery. This coastal gem is home to the iconic, partially submerged S.S. Palo Alto, a concrete ship that serves as a fascinating relic of maritime history and a popular spot for birdwatching. A fishing pier extends into the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary, offering panoramic views and opportunities for anglers. The beach itself stretches for two miles, providing ample space for leisurely strolls and enjoying the invigorating sea air.
The campground at Seacliff State Beach is exclusively for self-contained RV campers. It features 26 sites with full hookups and 37 non-hookup sites, offering a range of options to suit different RV configurations. The campground is nestled against impressive vertical bluffs, providing a natural barrier against the wind. While there’s no dump station directly at Seacliff, water and sanitation services are conveniently available at nearby New Brighton State Beach for a $10 fee. Due to its immense popularity, Seacliff State Beach requires advanced planning. Reservations can be made through ReserveCalifornia, and it’s advisable to book months in advance to secure your desired dates. Campsite rates start at $55 per night. Seacliff State Beach is a must-visit when exploring the 10 Northern California Spots Where You Can Camp Right on the Beach.
- Address: Aptos, CA 95003, USA
- Phone: +1 831-685-6500
- Amenities: Full hookups (select sites), access to water and sanitation station at nearby New Brighton State Beach.
- Reservations: ReserveCalifornia
3. Coast Campground (Point Reyes National Seashore)
Point Reyes National Seashore is a treasure trove of natural beauty, widely regarded as one of California’s most spectacular coastal parks, and arguably one of the most stunning in the entire country. Within this expansive protected area lie four backcountry hike-in campgrounds, offering a more secluded and immersive camping experience. Among these, Coast Campground stands out for its close proximity to the beach, located just 220 yards away.
Coast Campground features 12 regular campsites and two group sites, accessible via a scenic 1.8-mile hike along the Laguna and Fire Lane Trails. This moderate trek adds an element of adventure to your camping trip. The campground provides essential amenities such as vault toilets and water faucets. While the water is generally potable, it’s always recommended to bring water purification tablets as a precautionary measure, in case the campground’s water treatment system experiences any issues. Campers should also note that only gas stoves, charcoal, and canned heat are permitted for cooking, ensuring responsible fire management within the park.
Reservations for Coast Campground can be made either three months or 14 days in advance, depending on the specific campsite. Site 9, however, offers the flexibility of same-day reservations. To book your spot and obtain the necessary camping permit, visit Recreation.gov. Campsite rates start at $30 per night, making it an affordable option for experiencing the wilderness of Point Reyes.
- Address: Point Reyes Station, CA 94956, USA
- Phone: +1 415-464-5100
- Amenities: Vault toilets, water faucets.
- Reservations: Recreation.gov
4. Tomales Bay (Point Reyes National Seashore)
For a truly unique and adventurous camping experience, consider boat-in camping on the national seashore beaches of Tomales Bay. This option allows you to access secluded stretches of coastline, immersing yourself in the pristine beauty of Point Reyes from a different perspective. Boat-in camping is permitted on the west side of Tomales Bay, starting north of Indian Beach within Tomales Bay State Park.
Similar to Coast Campground, the beaches along Tomales Bay offer vault toilets for convenience. However, it’s important to note that there is no potable water available, so campers must bring their own supply. Additionally, visitors are prohibited from collecting wood within the park, so it’s essential to purchase firewood in West Marin and obtain a free fire permit at the Bear Valley Visitor Center before arriving.
Each day, 20 camping permits are available for boat-in camping on Tomales Bay. Reservations can be made through Recreation.gov, with prices starting at $30 per night. This unique camping opportunity allows you to explore the serene waters of Tomales Bay and discover hidden gems along the shoreline.
- Address: Tomales Bay, California, USA
- Amenities: Vault toilets. No potable water available.
- Reservations: Recreation.gov
5. Doran Regional Park
Doran Regional Park, located off Bodega Bay, is a coastal paradise offering a diverse range of activities and stunning scenery. With two miles of pristine beach, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore coastal hiking trails that wind through grassy dunes, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Birdwatching opportunities abound, with a variety of species inhabiting the area. Surfers can ride the waves, while anglers can cast their lines and try their luck at catching fish.
Campers will find over 120 tent and RV campsites spread across five distinct areas: The Shell, Gull, Cove, Jetty, and Miwok. Each area offers its own unique charm and ambiance. The park provides convenient access to potable water, as well as restrooms with flush toilets and coin-operated showers. RVers should be aware that electrical hook-ups are not available, and there is a $7 fee for using the dump station.
Reservations for Doran Regional Park can be made up to 12 months in advance through the Sonoma County Regional Parks’ website. To reserve an ADA-accessible campsite, call (707) 565-2267.
- Address: 201 Doran Beach Rd, Bodega Bay, CA 94923-9780, USA
- Phone: +1 707-875-3540
- Amenities: Restrooms, coin-operated showers, potable water, dump station (fee applies).
- Reservations: Sonoma County Regional Parks’ website
6. Bodega Dunes Campground (Sonoma Coast State Park)
Nestled between Jenner and Bodega Bay along scenic Highway One, Sonoma Coast State Park is renowned for its dramatic coastal landscapes. Massive rock formations rise majestically from the ocean, and crashing waves create a mesmerizing spectacle. Within this park, Bodega Dunes Campground stands out as a premier camping destination.
Bodega Dunes Campground features 99 developed campsites, providing a comfortable and well-equipped camping experience. Token-operated hot showers are available, allowing you to refresh after a day of exploring. A potable water fill station ensures access to clean drinking water, and flush toilets provide added convenience. RVers can utilize the dump station for waste disposal. Note that hook-ups are not provided at the campsites.
Campsites at Bodega Dunes Campground are available for $35 per night and can be booked from 48 hours to six months in advance through ReserveCalifornia. For those engaged in thru-hiking or bikepacking, a communal site is available for $5 per person per night, offering an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.
- Address: Bodega Bay, CA 94923, USA
- Amenities: Token-operated hot showers, potable water fill station, flush toilets, dump station.
- Reservations: ReserveCalifornia
7. Wright’s Beach Campground (Sonoma Coast State Park)
Another gem within Sonoma Coast State Park, Wright’s Beach Campground offers an unparalleled camping experience with 27 developed campsites located directly next to the beach. Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves and stepping out of your tent onto the soft sand.
Wright’s Beach Campground provides essential amenities such as running water and flush toilets. However, registered campers will need to travel the five miles to Bodega Dunes to access showers, the portable water fill station, and the dump station. Dogs are welcome at Wright’s Beach Campground, but they must be kept on a leash to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.
Reservations for Wright’s Beach Campground can be made on ReserveCalifornia from 48 hours to six months ahead of your trip. Campsites are priced at $35 per night, offering an affordable opportunity to experience beachside camping at its finest.
- Address: 7095 CA-1, Bodega Bay, CA 94923, USA
- Phone: +1 707-875-3483
- Amenities: Running water, flush toilets, access to showers, potable water fill station, and dump station at Bodega Dunes (5 miles).
- Reservations: ReserveCalifornia
8. Clam Beach County Park
Clam Beach County Park, located in Humboldt County near Little River State Beach, derives its name from one of its most popular activities: digging for clams. This coastal destination is approximately 280 miles and a six-hour drive from San Francisco, making it a worthwhile road trip for those seeking a unique beach camping experience.
Clam Beach County Park offers 15 campsites, two of which are ADA-accessible, available on a first-come, first-serve basis. This means that reservations are not accepted, so arriving early is recommended, especially during peak season. While the park doesn’t have showers, restrooms are available for campers’ convenience.
A fee of $25 is required to camp at Clam Beach County Park, and a three-night maximum stay is enforced. This rustic camping experience allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Humboldt County and enjoy the thrill of digging for clams on the beach. Clam Beach County Park is definitely one of the 10 Northern California Spots Where You Can Camp Right on the Beach.
- Address: Clam Beach County Park, McKinleyville, CA 95519, USA
- Amenities: Restrooms.
- Reservations: First-come, first-serve.
9. Anchor Bay Campground
Anchor Bay Campground is a privately-owned, family-friendly campground nestled along Highway One in Mendocino County, approximately a three-hour drive from San Francisco. This six-acre campground offers a welcoming atmosphere and a variety of camping options.
Anchor Bay Campground features 27 overnight campsites, with 23 of them situated directly on or adjacent to the beach. This allows you to fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the ocean and wake up to breathtaking coastal views. In addition to the overnight campsites, there are also 40 owned sites within the campground. Each campsite is equipped with a water hookup, picnic table, and fire pit, providing essential amenities for a comfortable camping experience. For RVers, there is one full hookup site available, and 14 sites offer electrical hookups. The campground also provides restrooms with flush toilets, coin-operated showers, hot water, and a septic dump station. Ice, bait, and firewood are available for purchase on-site.
Campsites at Anchor Bay Campground start at $45 per night and can be booked up to 12 months in advance by calling (707) 884-4222.
- Phone: (707) 884-4222
- Amenities: Water hookup, picnic table, fire pit, restrooms with flush toilets, coin-operated showers, hot water, septic dump station, ice, bait, firewood for sale.
- Reservations: Call (707) 884-4222.
10. Gold Bluffs Beach Campground (Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park)
Operated by Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Gold Bluffs Beach Campground is a unique and captivating destination nestled along a 10-mile stretch of pristine beach. This dog-friendly campground offers a tranquil escape surrounded by natural beauty and is within easy hiking distance of the iconic Fern Canyon.
Gold Bluffs Beach Campground features 24 RV and tent sites, providing a range of options for different camping styles. Amenities include solar showers, restrooms, and bear-proof lockers to ensure the safety of your belongings. It’s important to note that trailers are not permitted, and RV hookups are not provided. As of March 2022, permits are required to visit the beach’s day-use area and the Fern Canyon Trailhead from May through September, so be sure to obtain the necessary permits in advance.
Campsites at Gold Bluffs Beach Campground start at $35 per night and can be booked through ReserveCalifornia. This incredible location offers a blend of coastal and redwood forest environments, making it a truly unforgettable camping experience.
- Address: Gold Bluffs Beach Campground, Davison Rd, Orick, CA 95555, USA
- Phone: +1 707-465-7335
- Amenities: Solar showers, restrooms, bear-proof lockers.
- Reservations: ReserveCalifornia
These 10 Northern California Spots Where You Can Camp Right on the Beach offer a diverse range of experiences, from luxurious RV camping to rustic tent sites. Remember to book in advance, especially during peak season, and always practice responsible camping habits to preserve the beauty of these coastal treasures for generations to come.
