Gualala Point Regional Park Campground

4.91

102 reviews

Scenic ViewsPeace & Quiet

Featured in:Forest Camping#2 Pet-Friendly Campgrounds California#2 Family-Friendly Campgrounds#2 +3 more

Quick Facts

66 ft

Price

$35 - $45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

19 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowersWiFi

Opens Sonoma County Regional Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

66 ft

Price

$35 - $45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

19 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowersWiFi

Opens Sonoma County Regional Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Gualala Point Regional Park Campground

$35.00 - $45.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard site fees range from $35-45/night. Premium/hookup sites may be higher.

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$10.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Sonoma County Parks

Provider

(707) 785-2377

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What Campers Say

4.91

Top-Rated

Based on 102 reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietcleanrestrooms

Some mention

noisemosquitoesexpensive

"Campers overwhelmingly love Gualala Point Regional Park Campground for its quiet, magical redwood setting along the river and easy access to trails and the coast, though wildlife (especially raccoons), coin-operated showers, and occasional cold, shady conditions are recurring drawbacks. Overall it’s highly recommended for those seeking a serene, scenic forest-and-river experience near the ocean and town."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Gualala Point Regional Park Campground

38.7664, -123.5286

Best Time to Camp at Gualala Point Regional Park Campground

Gualala Point experiences classic Northern California coastal weather with cool, foggy summers and mild, wet winters. Late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the most reliable weather for camping, with daytime temperatures in the 60s-70s°F, though morning fog is common and evenings can be chilly in the 50s. Winter brings the region's rainy season from November through March, with the park occasionally closing due to flooding—plan accordingly and note that weather-related closures don't qualify for refunds. Winter visitors are rewarded with gray whale migration viewing opportunities and fewer crowds, but should come prepared with waterproof gear. The redwood canopy provides natural shelter from wind and light rain, making shoulder seasons particularly pleasant for those who don't mind cooler temperatures and the possibility of drizzle.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

May–Oct offers most reliable weather; summers are cool and sometimes foggy but popular for visits.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Late summer into fall is generally reliable; shoulder-season chill and wind are possible.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Late spring can be excellent, but shoulder-season chills and wind are reported by some campers.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round but winters are mild/wet and can be chilly and shaded; fewer warm days.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Year-round

About Gualala Point Regional Park Campground

Gualala Point Regional Park Campground offers an intimate escape where towering coastal redwoods meet the dramatic Sonoma coastline. With just 19 sites nestled among Gualala River redwoods and bay laurel groves, this peaceful retreat provides the rare combination of old-growth forest camping and easy beach access via scenic trails. Perfect for tent campers, small RVs, and nature lovers seeking a quieter alternative to crowded coastal campgrounds, Gualala Point delivers authentic Northern California coastal charm without the crowds.

Weather and SeasonsGualala Point experiences classic Northern California coastal weather with cool, foggy summers and mild, wet winters. Late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the most reliable weather for camping, with daytime temperatures in the 60s-70s°F, though morning fog is common and evenings can be chilly in the 50s. Winter brings the region's rainy season from November through March, with the park occasionally closing due to flooding—plan accordingly and note that weather-related closures don't qualify for refunds. Winter visitors are rewarded with gray whale migration viewing opportunities and fewer crowds, but should come prepared with waterproof gear. The redwood canopy provides natural shelter from wind and light rain, making shoulder seasons particularly pleasant for those who don't mind cooler temperatures and the possibility of drizzle.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits in a lush redwood and bay laurel forest along the Gualala River's east bank, creating a cathedral-like canopy that filters coastal light into dappled patterns across your campsite. The 195-acre park encompasses diverse ecosystems where the river meets the Pacific Ocean, forming a rich estuary habitat teeming with birdlife. Coastal bluffs rise dramatically above sandy beaches, offering panoramic ocean views and excellent vantage points for whale watching during migration seasons. The contrast between the sheltered, forested campground and the wild, windswept coastline creates a unique camping experience. River-side sites offer glimpses of the waterway through the trees, while the walk-in sites in the bay tree grove provide maximum seclusion. A network of 2.9 miles of trails connects the campground to the beach, bluffs, and estuary, allowing you to transition from quiet forest to crashing surf in minutes. Tide pools, driftwood-strewn beaches, and wildflower-dotted bluffs complete this diverse coastal landscape.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Up to 14 consecutive nights

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layout19 sites among Gualala River redwoods. 6 walk-in sites in bay tree grove. 1 hiker/cyclist site. Connected to day-use area via unpaved trail.

Reservation Platformssecure.sonomacountyparks.org

AccessibilityAccessible campsites available. ADA accessible paved path to beach.

Site SizeMedium-sized sites. Walk-in sites are smaller but more secluded.

PrivacyGood privacy. Campground is dark among the trees, well protected from coastal winds.

Total Campsites19 campsites

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

WiFi

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Gualala Point excels as a base for coastal exploration and nature observation. The park's 2.9-mile trail network includes ADA-accessible paths leading to Gualala Point Beach, where you can beachcomb, explore tide pools, and search for driftwood treasures. Birders will appreciate the diverse habitat attracting numerous species, particularly around the estuary where the river meets the ocean. Whale watching from the coastal bluffs is spectacular during migration seasons, with gray whales passing close to shore. Fishing opportunities exist both in the river and from the beach. The trails range from easy strolls to moderate coastal hikes, with the visitor center providing context about the region's natural and cultural history. Wildlife viewing extends beyond birds to include river otters, harbor seals, and diverse marine life in tide pools.

Hiking2.9 miles of coastal trails along bluffs, through meadows, and above Gualala River. 1-mile trail from campground to beach.

Fishing

Wildlife viewingExcellent birdwatching. Harbor seals and sea lions visible. Whale watching during migration season.

Beach activitiesBeach accessible via trail. Great for beachcombing, whale watching, photography, and picnicking.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsDangerous surf - beach unsafe for swimming. Mosquitoes can be problematic late spring through summer.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Gualala Point Regional Park Campground

Reviews

4.9

102 reviews

Top-Rated

Gualala Point Regional Park Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Campers overwhelmingly love Gualala Point Regional Park Campground for its quiet, magical redwood setting along the river and easy access to trails and the coast, though wildlife (especially raccoons), coin-operated showers, and occasional cold, shady conditions are recurring drawbacks. Overall it’s highly recommended for those seeking a serene, scenic forest-and-river experience near the ocean and town.

Review Summaries

Based on 102 reviews

What Campers Love

["Beautiful, serene setting among giant redwoods and other mature trees along the Gualala River, often described as magical and one-of-a-kind.", "Quiet, small, low-key campground with well-spaced,...

Based on 102 reviews

Common Concerns

Raccoons are a persistent challenge at this campground, requiring constant vigilance with food storage even when using the provided lockers. Some river-view sites feature steep drop-offs that can be...

Based on 102 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

["Secure all food and scented items in the provided food lockers and consider stowing all bags and loose gear at night, especially for hiker/biker campers, as raccoons are persistent and will grab...

Based on 102 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Several reviewers who camped in June and November report that it was surprisingly cold due to shade and wind, even when the calendar suggests milder weather, so shoulder seasons can feel chilly and...

Based on 102 reviews

Camper Quotes

["\u201cThis is a magical place.\u201d", "\u201cWe had site 8, it was one of the best camping sites I've ever stayed at.\u201d", "\u201cThis one of of the most beautiful hiker/biker sites but\u2026...

Based on 102 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 8 is specifically praised as “one of the best camping sites” a reviewer has ever stayed at, with very convenient access to bathrooms. Otherwise, reviews speak generally about walk-in and...

Based on 102 reviews

Accessibility Features

One review notes the availability of beach wheelchairs to borrow at the day-use area (though with limited rental hours), indicating some effort toward beach accessibility. Restrooms are frequently...

Based on 102 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Multiple reviewers mention that the campground is very dog friendly, with many guests camping with dogs (and even a couple of cats), and describe it as a great, relaxed environment for families with...

Based on 102 reviews

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