Wildcat Camp
A remote, hike-in campground on a clifftop meadow in Point Reyes, offering access to Alamere Falls and stunning coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Flowers bloom, weather is milder
Wildcat Camp
Best Time
Flowers bloom, weather is milder
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remote, hike-in campground on a clifftop meadow in Point Reyes, offering access to Alamere Falls and stunning coastal views.
"This is a pretty special place to spend the night, and worth the hike!"
Book 6 Months Ahead! :ticket:
Reservations are essential and go fast. Plan ahead for this popular spot!
Pack for Coastal Weather :cloud:
It's cooler than you think! Layers are key for fog and wind.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Alamere Falls
South of the campground, via beach access
A stunning waterfall that cascades directly onto the beach. A must-see!
Coastal Meadow Camping
Campground area
Camp in a unique clifftop meadow with ocean sounds and abundant wildlife.
Sunset Views
Beach access
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific Ocean from the nearby beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Far in Advance
Prepare for the Hike & Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book 6 Months Ahead! :ticket:
Reservations are essential and go fast. Plan ahead for this popular spot!
Pack for Coastal Weather :cloud:
It's cooler than you think! Layers are key for fog and wind.
Choose Your Hike Wisely :hiking_boot:
Bear Valley trail has elevation; Coast Trail can be overgrown. Consider your fitness.
Wildlife Spotting :deer:
Keep an eye out for Roosevelt Elk and California Quail.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book 6 Months Ahead! :ticket:
Reservations are essential and go fast. Plan ahead for this popular spot!
Pack for Coastal Weather :cloud:
It's cooler than you think! Layers are key for fog and wind.
Choose Your Hike Wisely :hiking_boot:
Bear Valley trail has elevation; Coast Trail can be overgrown. Consider your fitness.
Wildlife Spotting :deer:
Keep an eye out for Roosevelt Elk and California Quail.
Beach Access for Falls :waterfall:
Check tides for easiest access to Alamere Falls from the beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wildcat Camp is a highly sought-after, remote campground offering a unique wilderness experience. Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty, including Alamere Falls, breathtaking sunsets, and abundant wildlife like elk. The hike-in nature and unpredictable coastal weather are significant factors, requiring preparation but ultimately contributing to its special, secluded charm.
"This is an extremely popular campground. Reservations are required and are hard to get. And be prepared for a long hike to get there; as well as coastal weather.
That being said, this is a pretty special place to spend the night. And depending on the tides, you have easy access to Alamere Falls which are just south of the campground.
You'll likely see some Roosevelt Elk and hear coyotes. The sound of the surf is very relaxing after the long hike.
Be prepared for coastal weather. It can be a lot cooler than at the trailhead. And if you're hiking in from Bear Valley or Five Brooks trailheads you will have a really steep decent down to the campground. Which means you'll be facing a really steep hike back up.
But is it worth it? Heck yes!"
Tino Plank
"Stunning campsite. Nestled at the bottom of a basin with an abundance of wildlife in the area. Lots of birds and elk nearby. Easy access to the beach and a gorgeous place to watch the sunset."
Riley Jones
"Great campground with well maintained campsites. It also includes a restroom and a water spigot with fresh water. You are highly likely to spot elk and California quail. If you enjoy the sounds of waves crashing while you sleep, this is the place. Otherwise, you may not enjoy sleeping here. It has quick access to the beach and from there, a straight line to Alamere falls. There's also easy access to nearby trails. If you come here during the spring/summer months, you will be surrounded by flowers. Lastly, you can get a great view of the sunset for this location."
Michael Chang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The two main trailheads are Bear Valley and Five Brooks. The Bear Valley trail is longer with more elevation gain, while the Coast Trail can be overgrown but offers coastal views. Both lead to Wildcat Camp.
The hike length varies depending on the trailhead, but expect it to be a significant distance, often around 5-6 miles one way.
Yes, parking is available at trailheads like Bear Valley and Five Brooks, but it can fill up, especially on weekends. Arrive early.
No, Wildcat Camp is a hike-in campground. You cannot drive directly to the campsites.
Pack essentials for backpacking: sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing, rain gear, food, water, navigation tools, and a first-aid kit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Absolutely! Wildcat Camp is extremely popular and requires reservations, which can be booked up to 6 months in advance.
Reservations are typically made through recreation.gov. Be prepared to book right when reservations open, as spots fill up quickly.
There is a camping fee per night, in addition to any park entrance fees if applicable. Check recreation.gov for current pricing.
Campgrounds are generally open year-round, but specific access and hours can vary. Always check the official Point Reyes National Seashore website for the most up-to-date information.
It is highly unlikely to get a same-day reservation due to the extreme popularity of Wildcat Camp. Booking well in advance is strongly recommended.
🎫 🏕️ Onsite Experience
Wildcat Camp offers potable water spigots, restrooms (latrines), and bear boxes at each campsite. Some sites may have charcoal grills.
Yes, there are restrooms (latrines) available at Wildcat Camp.
Yes, there is a water spigot with fresh, potable water available at the campground.
Campfires are generally not permitted at Wildcat Camp due to fire restrictions and the coastal environment. Check with park regulations for current rules.
You have a high likelihood of spotting Roosevelt Elk, California Quail, and various birds. You might also hear coyotes.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo ops include Alamere Falls, the dramatic coastal sunsets, and the wildflower-filled meadows in spring/summer.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic light for coastal landscapes. Midday can be harsh.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low light and long exposures.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Seashores and National Parks. Always check the specific regulations for Point Reyes National Seashore before flying.
Be mindful of the tides for beach access. Experiment with different shutter speeds to capture the water's movement, from a silky smooth flow to individual droplets.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Once at the camp, the open meadow is great for kids to explore (under supervision), and the proximity to the beach provides endless entertainment. The chance to see elk and quail is a huge hit with children. Alamere Falls is a magical destination, but ensure kids are supervised closely near the water and on the beach. Pack plenty of snacks and be ready for the cooler coastal weather.
🎒 Backpackers & Adventure Seekers
Don't underestimate the coastal weather; it can test even experienced campers. The opportunity to witness Alamere Falls and the dramatic Pacific sunsets makes the effort worthwhile. Be prepared for self-sufficiency, as amenities are basic but functional (water, restrooms). The chance to see abundant wildlife adds to the allure.
📸 Photographers
During spring and summer, the meadows burst with wildflowers, offering vibrant foregrounds for your shots. The chance to photograph Roosevelt Elk in their natural habitat is another significant draw. Remember to pack a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto for wildlife. Be prepared for challenging light conditions due to fog and the dynamic coastal environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike In: Choosing Your Path
The Coast Trail, on the other hand, is generally flatter but can become quite overgrown, especially during certain times of the year. Some visitors find it less maintained and potentially more difficult to navigate due to the vegetation. It's crucial to research current trail conditions before your trip. Regardless of your choice, be prepared for a substantial hike, often around 5-6 miles one way, and pack accordingly.
Key takeaway: Assess your fitness level and current trail reports to choose the route that best suits your backpacking experience. Always carry sufficient water and snacks for the journey.
Coastal Weather and What to Expect
It's essential to pack layers of clothing to adapt to these changing conditions. Think moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers like fleece, and a waterproof and windproof outer shell. Even if the forecast looks clear, be prepared for a sudden shift. This coastal environment also means that the sound of the crashing surf is a constant presence, which many find incredibly relaxing, but others might find disruptive to sleep.
Pro tip: Bring a warm hat and gloves, even in summer. The dramatic weather can also contribute to stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset when the fog interacts with the light.
Wildlife Encounters at Wildcat Camp
Beyond the elk, you're also likely to see California Quail scurrying through the underbrush. Birdwatchers will find a variety of coastal and migratory birds in the area. Keep an ear out for the calls of coyotes in the evening, adding to the wild ambiance of the campground.
Important note: While wildlife sightings are exciting, always maintain a safe distance and never feed the animals. Store your food properly in the provided bear boxes to protect both your provisions and the wildlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit