How much does camping cost at Gerstle Cove Campground?

Camping fees at Gerstle Cove Campground range from $35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Gerstle Cove Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Gerstle Cove Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Gerstle Cove Campground before I book?

Yes! Gerstle Cove Campground has 25 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Gerstle Cove Campground?

Gerstle Cove Campground is open March 15 through October 31.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Gerstle Cove Campground?

Gerstle Cove Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Gerstle Cove Campground?

Fire policies at Gerstle Cove Campground: Fires are only permitted in designated fire rings. Firewood can be purchased from camp hosts.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Is there cell service at Gerstle Cove Campground?

Cell phone service at Gerstle Cove Campground is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Gerstle Cove Campground have?

Gerstle Cove Campground has 30 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Gerstle Cove Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Gerstle Cove Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Gerstle Cove Campground?

Gerstle Cove Campground offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Gerstle Cove Campground

4.38

78 reviews

25050 Highway 1, Jenner, CA 95450

Top 11% in CAFall

Scenic Views

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

262 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

30 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

262 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

30 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Gerstle Cove Campground

$35.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping fees are $35 per night for standard sites at Gerstle Cove Campground. Overflow camping for self-contained vehicles costs $30 per night....

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$5.00

Group Site Fee$200.00

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Reserve California

Provider

(707) 847-3221interp@park.ca.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

25050 Highway 1, Jenner, CA 95450

Gerstle Cove Campground

25050 Highway 1, Jenner, CA 95450

Nearby places

Jenner (30 miles, approximately 40 minutes)

Gualala (18 miles, 30 minutes)

San Francisco (90 miles, approximately 2 hours)

Nearby supplies

The Fort Ross store, located approximately 5 miles south, offers basic groceries and supplies. The nearest gas stations are in Jenner (30 miles south) and Gualala (18 miles north).

Driving directionsThe campground is situated approximately 90 miles north of San Francisco and 30 miles north of Jenner along Highway One. The drive includes very winding roads, and visitors are advised to proceed with caution. Signage for Salt Point State Park is visible along the route.

Highway One provides direct access to the campground. The road is paved but winding, with narrow segments that may be challenging for larger RVs and trailers. Seasonal weather conditions may affect road usability.

Weather at Gerstle Cove Campground

Current alert: Boil water advisory is in effect due to a broken water line. Portable toilets are provided. Visitors must bring their own potable water or fill tanks at Bodega Dunes Campground.

Best Time to Camp at Gerstle Cove Campground

Fall delivers the best conditions. September and October bring daytime highs in the mid-60s to low 70s, nights in the low 50s. Summer fog and wind drop off, making tidepooling and kayaking more pleasant. Crowds thin but don't disappear. Summer mornings often start with fog banks that keep temperatures around 64°F. Winter hovers in the low 40s with dramatic storm-watching. Pack layers regardless of season. The coastal winds shift constantly.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 11% in CA

Fall (Sep–Oct) offers best conditions, milder temps and whale-watching opportunities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March 15 through October 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round. Recommended reservations during peak season from March 15 to October 31.

About Gerstle Cove Campground

Gerstle Cove Campground sits on coastal bluffs in Salt Point State Park, about 30 sites spread across mostly small, well-separated spaces. You're close to the Pacific's constant percussion, though campsites sit behind protective vegetation rather than directly on the water. $35 per night gets you a picnic table, fire ring, and bear locker. Reservations are recommended, especially fall weekends.

Gerstle Cove Campground caters to tent and small RV camping with a rustic environment. Overflow camping supports self-contained vehicles, emphasizing simplicity and natural beauty.

Historical Significance

Gerstle Cove is California's first underwater preserve. In the 1800s, stonecutters harvested the area's sandstone and shipped it south to build San Francisco. You can still spot old quarry marks on coastal rocks.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best conditions. September and October bring daytime highs in the mid-60s to low 70s, nights in the low 50s. Summer fog and wind drop off, making tidepooling and kayaking more pleasant. Crowds thin but don't disappear. Summer mornings often start with fog banks that keep temperatures around 64°F. Winter hovers in the low 40s with dramatic storm-watching. Pack layers regardless of season. The coastal winds shift constantly.

ElevationWhile specific elevation markers remain unrecorded in official documents, the campground's blufftop position places you in that sweet spot where land dramatically meets sea—high enough to feel the full force of ocean breezes, yet accessible enough for easy exploration of the tide pools and coves below.

Natural Features and SceneryBishop pines, Douglas firs, and madrones create a twisted canopy shaped by persistent ocean winds. The Pacific crashes against rocky promontories just beyond camp. Black-tailed deer browse through at dawn. Steller's jays announce themselves at breakfast. The coastline reveals intricate tafoni formations where salt and wind have honeycombed the sandstone. Inland, peculiar pygmy forests grow stunted like natural bonsai. Open prairies bloom with seasonal wildflowers when conditions align.

Geological RegionSalt Point State Park showcases Northern California's coastal geology at its most dramatic. Here, the relentless Pacific has carved a masterpiece from the landscape, creating a wonderland of coastal bluffs that drop precipitously to hidden coves below. Venture inland and discover the peculiar pygmy forests, where centuries-old trees stand stunted like natural bonsai gardens. Open prairies bloom with seasonal wildflowers, while the coastline reveals the area's geological calling card: intricate tafoni formations, where salt and wind have honeycomed the sandstone into otherworldly sculptures that wouldn't look out of place on an alien planet.

Scenic ViewsWhile ocean views are accessible within the day-use area and overflow camping section, individual campsites lack direct waterfront views.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are explicitly mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2PM

Check-out

12 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 10 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Eight persons maximum per site, including children.

Groups

Accommodates up to 40 people and 10 cars, located near Gerstle Cove. Dogs are not permitted.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are well-separated across small spaces suitable for tents and small RVs. The layout provides quiet nights despite the compact footprint. An overflow area accommodates self-contained vehicles when the main sites fill.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made by calling (800) 444-7275 or visiting www.parks.ca.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up hiker/biker sites and overflow camping are available. Overflow sites are self-contained vehicles only.

Cancellation PolicyRefunds are provided for cancellations due to water issues at Gerstle Cove. Contact Lilia.Ponce@parks.ca.gov for specific policies.

AccessibilityThree campsites (#7, #8, and #24) are accessible, offering accessible tables, fire rings, and water spigots. Parking and a restroom near site #8 are also accessible.

Site SizeMostly small sites as noted by reviewers, suitable for tents and small RVs.

PrivacySites are described as well-separated, providing a quiet environment. Overflow areas for self-contained vehicles offer ocean views.

Total Campsites30 campsites

Recommended SitesSites numbered 8-23 are recommended for privacy and spacing. Overflow camping is ideal for those seeking ocean views.

Best CampsitesSites 6, 7, 9, 12, and 17 get consistent praise from reviewers. The overflow area for self-contained vehicles offers ocean views if you arrive early enough to claim a spot.

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Amenities available

Gerstle Cove Campground offers amenities tailored to a rustic camping experience. All campsites include a fire ring, picnic table, and food locker. There are flush toilets but no showers, dump stations, potable water filling stations, or Wi-Fi. The campground also has accessible facilities at sites #7, #8, and #24, with accessible tables, fire rings, water spigots, parking, and restroom near site #8.

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Group Sites

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground and surrounding Salt Point State Park offer a wealth of activities, from hiking and wildlife viewing to fishing and tide pooling. The park's rugged coastline and lush forest landscapes create abundant recreational opportunities.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsOcean and bluff-related hazards are significant due to rogue waves and slippery rocks. Wildlife such as raccoons may intrude on campsites. Poison oak and ticks are common in surrounding areas.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Food Storage RequiredAll campsites include lockable food storage lockers to deter raccoons and other wildlife.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyFires are only permitted in designated fire rings. Firewood can be purchased from camp hosts.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM

Emergency ServicesThe nearest hospital is in Santa Rosa, approximately 50 miles south. Police and ranger services are available locally within the park. Emergency contact numbers include (707) 847-3221 for on-site assistance.

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities are available. Recycling is not mentioned explicitly.

Water FeaturesLocated near Gerstle Cove, which is an underwater marine reserve. Rocky tide pools and kelp forests are nearby attractions.

Camp HostRangers are described as helpful, but some reviews criticize the camp host’s behavior.

Cell CoverageUser reviews indicate good cell reception via Verizon, with speeds reaching up to 100 Mbps in the day-use parking area. T-Mobile reception is spotty, while AT&T is unmentioned.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

78 reviews

Recommended

Gerstle Cove Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Users praise the campground's rustic charm, proximity to the ocean, and clean facilities. Common themes include quiet nights, abundant wildlife, and scenic coastal views.

Review Summaries

Based on 78 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include clean restrooms, spacious and separated campsites, proximity to hiking trails and coastal views, and excellent cell reception for Verizon users.

Based on 78 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include wet tents due to coastal moisture, lack of potable water, occasional unfriendly camp hosts, and wildlife intrusions such as raccoons and foxes.

Based on 78 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Best sites include #6, #7, #9, #12, and #17 for Gerstle Cove. Overflow areas provide ocean views but are first-come, first-served.

Based on 78 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring firewood and potable water. Store food securely to deter wildlife and raccoons. Consider arriving early for overflow sites with ocean views.

Based on 78 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer experiences feature fog and moisture, requiring layered clothing. Fall offers whale watching during migration. Winter is noted for its cold and wet conditions.

Based on 78 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Campsites roughly 8-23 are the best." - Matt Anderson Photography "No showers, no cell service, no noise at night, (except for raccoons)." - Craig Philpott "Sites are nicely spaced. Access to the...

Based on 78 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible sites (#7, #8, and #24) are well-equipped with accessible tables, fire rings, and restrooms. Routes and parking near site #8 are noted for accessibility.

Based on 78 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed in campgrounds and paved areas, but prohibited on trails and beaches. Users recommend leashing pets and cleaning up after them.

Based on 78 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Divers, kayakers, and tidepool obsessives who pack their own water and firewood. Sites #6, #9, and #12 get good separation from neighbors, and fall weekends in September-October are the sweet spot before winter storms roll in.

Skip if

Tent campers sensitive to damp: coastal moisture soaks everything by morning, there are no showers, the water line is currently broken requiring you to bring all drinking water or drive to Bodega Dunes, and the camp host has frustrated more than a few recent visitors.

Nearby Campgrounds

25050 Coast Highway 1, Jenner, CA 95450

Warren Group Camp sits at 322 feet elevation in Salt Point State Park, accommodating up to 40 people and 10 vehicles in a single group site. The campground costs $200 per night and includes flush toilets, potable water, fire rings, picnic tables, and bear lockers. Access roads are winding, and cell service is absent.