Coast Campground
Location: Point Reyes National Seashore
Nestled an hour north of San Francisco, Coast Campground is an ideal remote destination where visitors can unwind and return to their roots—if they’re willing to put in the work to get there. This Northern California beach camping spot isn’t for the faint of heart; the shortest way to get there requires a slightly inclined 1.9-mile trek. Should you choose to go this way, begin at the Laguna Trailhead (just past the HI Point Reyes Hostel), and follow the Laguna and Fire Lane Trails. But if you choose to start from the Coast Trailhead instead, you’ll cover an impressive 2.7 miles with your camping gear. (This path is open to bicycles, too, so consider pedaling your way to the campground to make the journey a bit easier.)
Once you’ve arrived at Coast Campground, you’ll be rewarded with ocean views, since the beach is located just 600 feet from the campsite. The campground features 12 individual sites as well as two group sites with amenities such as running water, restroom facilities, food storage lockers, charcoal grills, and picnic tables—though cell service is notably absent.
Note that you’ll need a backcountry camping permit to set up camp here, so head to the Bear Valley Visitor Center to pick one up.
Bodega Dunes Campground
Location: Bodega Bay
Located within the 17–mile expanse of Sonoma Coast State Park, Bodega Dunes Campground offers an idyllic spot to overnight in nature. With close proximity to Bodega Harbor and Bodega Dunes Beach, this campground has everything you need to unwind. From fishing and sunbathing to picnicking and hiking, it’s all possible just off Highway 1.
Complete with showers, potable water, and 99 campsites, Bodega Dunes Campground is the perfect place to bring the family—though Fido will have to skip out on this trip.