Tomales Bay Boat-in Camping

Two kayakers wearing purple PFDs in a yellow kayak on a calm bay.
Boating on Tomales Bay is another exciting way to access camping in Point Reyes, but should only be attempted by boaters who come prepared for this experience.

NPS Photo

 
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Permit Availability

All Tomales Bay Boat-in Camping Permits are available for reservations through Recreation.gov three months to the day in advance.

 

Need to Know Information

Visit our Guide to Low Impact Boat Camping page for additional details.

Where to Park and Launch

There are three locations at which watercraft may be launched onto Tomales Bay and overnight parking is permitted: Tomales Bay Resort, Miller Boat Launch, and Lawson's Landing. Overnight parking for boat-in campers is prohibited within Point Reyes National Seashore (i.e., along the Pierce Point and L Ranch Roads and at the Marshall Beach Trailhead) and Tomales Bay State Park. See the Where to Launch section on our Guide to Low Impact Boat Camping page for more details.

Where to camp

Most permits allow campers to choose their own beach from those indicated as open to camping on our Tomales Bay Boat-in Camping Map. If you reserve one of the three 15- to 25-person permits that have either "Marshall Beach Group" or "Tomales Beach Group" in its name, you are required to camp on that beach. See the Where to Camp section on our Guide to Low Impact Boat Camping page for more details.

Sanitation

All waste (including human) must be removed. Disposing of human waste in the bay or onto park beaches is prohibited, so campers must bring portable facilities or limit camping to Marshall Beach and Tomales Beach, where vault toilets are available. See the Sanitation section on our Guide to Low Impact Boat Camping page for more details.

Drinking Water

There is no potable water available. Pack in all of the water you will need for cooking and drinking.

Camping Map

Download the Tomales Bay Boat-in Camping Map. (2,632 KB PDF)

Last updated: September 16, 2023

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1 Bear Valley Road
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956

Phone:

415-464-5100
This number will initially be answered by an automated attendant, from which one can opt to access a name directory, listen to recorded information about the park (e.g., directions to the park; visitor center hours of operation; fire danger information; wildlife updates; ranger-led programs; seasonal events; etc.), or speak with a ranger. Please note that if you are calling between 4:30 pm and 10 am, park staff may not be available to answer your call.

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