Point Reyes National Seashore
Overview
Point Reyes National Seashore contains unique elements of biological and historical interest in a spectacularly scenic panorama of thunderous ocean breakers, open grasslands, bushy hillsides and forested ridges. Native land mammals number about 37 species and marine mammals augment this total by another dozen species. The biological diversity stems from a favorable location in the middle of California and the natural occurrence of many distinct habitats. Nearly 20% of the State's flowering plant species are represented on the peninsula and over 45% of the bird species in North America have been sighted. The Point Reyes National Seashore was established by President John F. Kennedy on September 13, 1962. Abundant recreational opportunities include 240 kilometers (150 miles) of hiking trails, backcountry campgrounds, and numerous beaches. Kayaking, biking, hiking, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing are just a few of the self-guided activities awaiting your visit. There is something for everyone here at Point Reyes.
Activities
Bicycling
Point Reyes National Seashore provides a variety of off-road biking opportunities traversing diverse habitats and terrains. You can explore trails through evergreen forests, coastal scrub, or along estuaries and beach bluffs.
Camping
Point Reyes National Seashore offers year-round backcountry camping along Drakes Bay and amongst the hills and valleys of the Phillip Burton Wilderness, and boat-in camping on the west shore of Tomales Bay. Because of its location near the Metropolitan San Francisco Bay Area, the campsites at Point Reyes are in great demand. Reservations are strongly suggested.
Hiking
The National Seashore has about 240 kilometers (150 miles) of hiking trails to explore. Trail maps are available at the Bear Valley Visitor Center.
Horseback Riding
Horses and other pack animals are permitted on most established trails and beaches at Point Reyes National Seashore. They may not travel off trail because conditions are not maintained for their safety, and their presence can negatively impact the environment.
Picnicking
Picnic areas are undeveloped.
Water Sports
The most popular area for kayaking at Point Reyes National Seashore is on Tomales Bay. Tomales Bay is a 24-kilometer (15-mile) long, 2645-hectare (6780-acre) tidal water body located in rural west Marin County, California. It is the largest unspoiled coastal embayment on the coast of California. The bay is bounded largely on the west by the Point Reyes National Seashore. Adjacent communities include Pt. Reyes Station, Inverness, Tomales, Marshall, and Dillon Beach in the north where Tomales Bay meets Bodega Bay.
Seasonality/Weather
The park is open daily from sunrise to midnight throughout the year. Overnight camping is available by permit only.
Directions
Driving
Point Reyes is located approximately 35-miles north of San Francisco on Highway 1 along the west coast of California. Travelers may approach the park from the winding scenic Highway 1, either northbound or southbound. You can also reach the park via Sir Francis Drake Boulevard or Point Reyes/Petaluma Road.
Public Transportation - West Marin Stagecoach provides limited public transportation on weekdays to and from the San Anselmo Hub and a few other locations along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. For a full listing of bus routes and times, visit their on-line schedule at www.marin-stagecoach.org/the_stage_routes.htm. For more information, call 415-526-3239 or go to http://www.marin-stagecoach.org/.
There is no public transportation to the Point Reyes area on weekends since Golden Gate Transit route #65 was taken out of service as of Ma
Flying
The closest major airports are San Francisco International and Oakland Airport. You will most likely need to rent a car to reach the park.
Phone Numbers
Primary
(415) 464-5100Links
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