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Sonoma Coast State Park

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Birds eye view of Russian River mouth looking South

Sonoma Coast State Park, is one of California’s most scenic attractions. A series of beaches separated by rocky bluffs, Sonoma Coast has 19 miles of some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.

The weather here is often a chilly combination of wind and fog. During the summer months, the morning fog usually burns off to create pleasant, sunny afternoons. Even during the summer, however, visitors are wise to dress for the possibility of wet, cold and windy north coast weather.

Recreational Opportunities

Fishing—The ocean, bay and river frontage of the Sonoma County coast are an angler’s paradise. Sport fishing species include rockfish, perch, salmon, steelhead and smelt, as well as red abalone, mussels and cockles.

Picnicking—At Bodega Head, Bodega Dunes, Rock Point, Duncans Landing, Wright’s Beach and Goat Rock Beach, picnic tables and wide stretches of sandy beach entice visitors to stop and watch the surf pound against the rugged coastline. Most day-use areas have restroom facilities nearby.

Camping—Wright’s Beach Campground has 30 developed sites near the beach. No shower facilities are available but you may use the showers at Bodega Dunes (5 miles south). Bodega Dunes Campground has 98 developed sites with restrooms, a campfire center, hot showers and an RV sanitation station. Advance reservations can be made through www.parks.ca.gov or call (800) 444-7275.

Environmental Camping—Pomo Canyon and Willow Creek environmental campgrounds are available first come, first served only. The Willow Creek Campground is about a half-mile east of Highway 1 on Willow Creek Road. The Pomo Canyon Campground is 2 miles farther along Willow Creek Road.

Riding and Hiking—Equestrians and hikers can access the Bodega Dunes & Salmon Creeks five-mile trail system through the Bodega Dunes. The Kortum Trail begins at Wright’s Beach and travels north to Blind Beach. The Pomo Canyon Trail, out of the Shell Beach parking lot, winds over the hill 3 1/2 miles to the Pomo Canyon Campground.

Volunteering for Whale watch or Seal watch - Come join our volunteers at Bodega Head during the annual whale migration or provide visitor information on the Harbor Seals pupping at the Seal rookery just South of the Russian River.

Docent-led environmental education programs are available by reservation. Tidepool, watershed and environmental education programs available.

Seasons Accessible

Park is open year round. Pomo and Willow Creek Environmental Campgrounds are closed December through March, Jenner Visitor center is open on weekends 11-3 through the summer months when staffing is available.

For the latest accessibility updates, visit http://access.parks.ca.gov/ or call (916) 445-8949.

Fees: Day use $8.00 camping Bodega Dunes / Wrights Beach $35.00 and up. Environmental Camp $25.00

 ADA Accessibility Notes
Camping
At Sonoma Coast, all four campgorounds have accessible campsites, restrooms and parking.

Picnic Areas
Bodega Head area. Campbell Cove, West Head, and Goat Rock now have accessible picnicking, parking, and non-flush toilets.

Vista Point area. A picnic area near the Vista Trail has four accessible picnic sites on firm pads with accessible paths of travel. A non-flush toilet is accessible with parking. Vista Trail is a .7 mile asphalt trail at the northern boundary of Sonoma Coast State Beach. The trail offers sweeping views of the rugged Sonoma coastline. Accessible parking, picnicking and restrooms are available.

Beach/Shore Access
Beach wheelchairs are available. Call (707) 875-3483 for information. A 675-foot-long boardwalk out to Bodega Dunes is being refurbished in 2010.

The Jenner Visitor Center/Park Store has been modified and is accessible, including parking and a no-flush toilet.
 
 Pet Friendly Notes
Dogs must always be on a leash. In order to protect sensitive wildlife, dogs are not allowed on any trails, Goat Rock Beach or Salmon Creek Beach. Pets are not allowed in the environmental campgrounds. Wildlife will avoid places where domestic animals are kept.
 

For More Information, Contact:

Michele Luna

stewards@mcn.org
http://www.stewardsofthecoastandredwoods.org
PO Box 2, Duncans Mills, CA 95430
(707) 869-9177 · fax (707) 869-8252

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Boundaries and names shown do not necessarily reflect the map policy of the National Geographic Society.

Longitude: -123.162789300
Latitude: 38.478420400
Elevation: 617 FT (188 M)
Meet the Contributor:
Jennifer Ruffolo
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