🏕 Campground
Point Reyes National Seashore Backpacking
About This Permit
Point Reyes National Seashore has four hike-in backcountry camps — Sky, Coast, Glen, and Wildcat — all requiring advance reservations through recreation.gov. Popular year-round given the seashore's mild climate, dramatic coastal scenery, and wildlife including tule elk. Weekend dates book quickly, particularly spring and fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Point Reyes backcountry camp is most popular?
Coast Camp is usually the most in-demand — it sits on a bluff above the Pacific and is only 1.8 miles from Limantour Beach. Sky Camp offers the best views of Drakes Estero. All four camps fill quickly for Friday and Saturday nights year-round.
How far in advance can I reserve a Point Reyes permit?
Reservations open on recreation.gov up to 3 months in advance (reduced from 6 months as of July 18, 2024). Weekend spring and fall dates (March–May and September–November) are the most contested.
Are campfires allowed at Point Reyes backcountry camps?
No campground fires are permitted at any Point Reyes backcountry camp — stoves only. Beach fire permits may be available separately if fire danger conditions allow. Bear boxes are provided at all four camps; food storage in the provided boxes is required.
Key Facts
- State
- CA
- Season
- Year-round; winter storms October – March can be severe
- Sites
- 4 backcountry camps; individual sites up to 6 people each, group sites up to 25 people. Sky: 11 individual + 1 group; Coast: 12 individual + 2 group; Wildcat: 5 individual + 3 group
- Access
- Bear Valley Visitor Center (primary), Palomarin, or Five Brooks
- Reservation Window
- Sky, Coast, Glen Camp, or Wildcat backcountry camp
- Difficulty to reserve
- 3/5(Competitive)
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