Point Reyes' Wildcat Camp via Coast Trail

Palomarin Trailhead
5.0
6 Reviews
Point Reyes' Wildcat Camp via Coast Trail
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Details

Distance
11.19 miles
Elevation Gain
1926 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back

Features

Lake
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Beach
Scenic
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Directions
Check-in
Track

About this place

Added by Miranda Leconte

Permits are required! The campground is located on an open meadow on a bluff overlooking the ocean. The distance and view make this a great backpacking trip for novice and experienced backpackers alike.

In order to make this trip possible, go to recreation.gov and make a reservation for Wildcat Camp (available year-round). On your way to the trailhead, make sure to stop by the Bear Valley Visitor Center to grab your camping permit. For more information, visit: http://www.nps.gov/pore/planyourvisit/camping.htm.

Getting there from the Bear Valley Visitor Center is easy- follow HWY 1 south for 9 miles and turn right onto Olema-Bolinas Rd. Keep left to stay on Olema-Bolinas Rd, turn right onto Mesa Rd until you reach the parking lot at the end of the road. You'll begin by wandering through a eucalyptus grove and emerging onto numerous bluffs overlooking the ocean. This hike will hug the coastline for miles while snaking its way through densely packed flora and hidden coastal lakes. Watch for poison oak- it's hidden all along the trail.

Additional Details:

  • Each site is equipped with a picnic table, charcoal grill, and a bear locker
  • Campground has two bathrooms, garbage cans, and potable water
  • No campfires or dogs allowed
  • 5 minute walk to the beach from camp
  • 2 mile roundtrip hike along the beach to Alamere Falls from camp
  • Don't forget your Permit for camping

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
Community
Reviews
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Check-ins
Bjorn Frithiof
7/31/2016
Beautiful
I backpacked to wildcat camp in early December and it got really cold at night, but it was definitely worth it! You're right on ...
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Sarah Eichstedt
6/8/2016
Amazing views!
This location is great since it's close to the city and sometimes you want to get away but only have a few days. The ...
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Natala Menezes
10/4/2015
beautiful sunsets and sunrises, easy to hike to
We hiked from the Bear Valley ranger station to Wildcat in Mid-Sept and it was a relatively easy hike through the woods. Roundtrip was ...
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Amber Mullins
9/28/2015
Nature porn!
We camped here in March 2015 and there was perfect weather for the hike in/out. If you are hoping to see some wildlife this ...
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Laura Monterrosa
9/14/2015
Added to my next To Do List! What time during the year would you advice is best??
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Matt Murphy
8/5/2015
Find a camp site that hasn't been booked months is advance is a huge challenge. Anyone have any tips on grabbing a campsite as a walk-in?
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