by Alex Gugel , all rights reserved
Sonoma CoastPark Brochure |
featured in
California Pocket Maps |
Our Mission
Sonoma Coast
State Park
The mission of California State Parks is
to provide for the health, inspiration and
education of the people of California by helping
to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological
diversity, protecting its most valued natural and
cultural resources, and creating opportunities
for high-quality outdoor recreation.
Sixteen miles of
awe-inspiring shoreline
offer myriad opportunities
to create unforgettable
memories — stroll the
beach, fish, sunbathe, or
California State Parks supports equal access.
Prior to arrival, visitors with disabilities who
need assistance should contact the park at
(707) 875-3483. If you need this publication in an
alternate format, contact interp@parks.ca.gov.
CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS
P.O. Box 942896
Sacramento, CA 94296-0001
For information call: (800) 777-0369
(916) 653-6995, outside the U.S.
711, TTY relay service
www.parks.ca.gov
Sonoma Coast State Park
3095 Highway 1
Bodega Bay, CA 94923
(707) 875-3483 or (707) 865-2391
© 2004 California State Parks (Rev. 2017)
unpack a family picnic.
I
magine broad, sandy beaches, secluded
coves, rugged headlands, natural arches,
a craggy coastline with fertile tide pools,
and offshore reefs — this is Sonoma Coast
State Park, one of California’s most scenic
attractions. A series of beaches separated
by rocky bluffs, Sonoma Coast has 16 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 prepare for the
possibility of wet, cold, and windy North
coast weather.
Native Americans
The dominant indigenous groups in this area
were the Pomo and Coast Miwok, whose
presence dates back about 3,000 years.
Pomo territory once encompassed much
of today’s Mendocino, Lake, and Sonoma
counties. Farther south, the Coast Miwok
occupied part of Sonoma County and what
is now Marin County. These groups built
seasonal villages of redwood bark houses
along rivers and streams and near today’s
Bodega Bay. Both groups were accomplished
basket makers. The Russian and Aleutian fur
trappers who arrived in the area in the early
1800s may have been the Pomo and Miwok
people’s first contact with non-native people.
The Pomo and the Miwok were among
several Native Californian groups who
actively resisted the drastic changes brought
by the fur trappers, Spanish missionaries,
and hordes of gold seekers. However,
within a generation or two, direct conflict
and exposure to European diseases nearly
decimated the Pomo and Miwok. Today
their descendants still occupy parts of their
ancestral lands, keeping alive the old ways
and passing them on to the next generation.
PLANT COMMUNITIES
The bluffs, slopes, and dunes that frame the
many beaches support a hardy ground cover
of native shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers. In
the spring, these areas display yellow and
blue lupine, sea pink, Indian paintbrush,
western wallflower, verbena, and dozens of
other species of native wildflowers.
In 1951 a program was begun to stabilize
the drifting sand and keep it from filling
Bodega Bay. The dunes between the bay and
Salmon Creek were planted with specialized
grasses, including European beach grass,
a species used to protect dikes in the
Netherlands. This species is now considered
invasive, so California State Parks staff and
volunteers are removing the beach grass
where possible.
WILDLIFE
Many types of animals make their homes
in this lush coastal environment. A lucky
visitor might catch a glimpse of raccoons,
rabbits, black-tailed deer, skunks, squirrels,
or — on rare occasions — elusive gray foxes
or badgers. The Sonoma Coast is also rich in
bird life, with some 300 identified species.
The many shore birds and other waterfowl
in the area include willets, godwits, gulls,
cormorants, pelicans, coots, and many
species of ducks. Among thriving land
birds are quails, ravens, wrens, hawks, owls,
and swallows.
Whales — From December through April,
volunteers assist visitors at Bodega Head
in viewing the annual gray whale migration
from Alaska to Baja California and back up
the coast.
Seals — The
Sonoma
Coast,
especially
the mouth of
the Russian
River, is
Harbor seals
home to
hundreds of harbor seals. From March
through June, seal pups are born unable to
swim and are defenseless against predators
when left alone. Solitary pups have neither
been abandoned nor are they ill — their
mothers are feeding offshore. People
who approach the pregnant females and
newborn pups are viewed as a serious
threat. The seemingly tame seals frighten
easily, and — like all wild animals — can inflict
severe bites. Please do not touch seals or
pups; stay at least 300 feet from harbor
seal colonies.
Tide pool creatures — Please do not disturb
the life in the tide pools. Even the simple
act of turning over a rock and exposing the
invertebrates to the sun or air can destroy
them. These delicate animals usually die
after being removed from their habitat.
RECREational ACTIVITIES
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 mussels and cockles. A valid
California sport fishing license is required.
State law protects all species; consult the
latest regulations at www.wildlife.ca.gov for
information on licensing, species, season,
size, and bag limit. Bodega Head and the
mouth of the Russian River are Marine
Protected Areas (MPAs). See https://www.
wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Marine/MPAs
for details.
Picnicking — At Bodega Head, Bodega
Dunes, Rock Point, Duncan’s 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 more than 25 developed sites near the
beach. No shower facilities are available.
At Bodega Dunes Campground, about 100
developed sites have restrooms, a campfire
center, hot pay showers, and an RV sanitation
station. For reservations, call (800) 444-7275
or visit www.parks.ca.gov.
Goat Rock
Environmental Camping — Pomo
Canyon and Willow Creek environmental
campgrounds are subject to seasonal
closures. Call (707) 875-3483 for availability
of these first-come, first-served sites.
Willow Creek Campground is ½ mile east
of Highway 1 on Willow Creek Road. Pomo
Canyon Campground is two miles farther
along Willow Creek Road.
Riding and Hiking — Equestrians and hikers
can access the park’s five-mile trail system
through the Bodega Dunes, via Bay Flat
Road. Horses are allowed onto Salmon
Creek Beach, but they are not allowed
north of the Bodega Dunes day-use area.
The Kortum Trail begins at Wright’s Beach
and travels north to Blind Beach. The Pomo
Canyon Trail from the Shell Beach parking
lot winds over the hill 3½ miles to the Pomo
Canyon Campground.
Upper Willow Creek access is limited
to current permit holders; no new permits
are being issued.
Jenner Visitor Center — Learn about the
natural and cultural history of the Jenner
area while enjoying a spectacular view of the
Russian River. This volunteer-staffed facility
is open only on weekends through the
summer months.
SURF SAFETY
The beaches along the Sonoma Coast are
not recommended for swimming or wading.
The very features that make this area such
a spectacular place to look at and enjoy can
be lethal to those caught unaware along
the shoreline.
Large surf, cold water temperatures,
backwash, sudden drop-offs, pounding
shorebreak, and dangerous rip currents can
turn what seem like safe activities — such
as playing near the surf line, wading, or
climbing on rock outcroppings — deadly.
Lifeguard service is limited along the
Sonoma Coast. Check with park staff about
the ocean conditions. Please be aware
that conditions change quickly along
the coast.
Ocean Waves — Waves can be
unpredictable. Large waves have caused
drownings over the years; waves can catch
those close to the shoreline by surprise,
washing them into the cold, turbulent
water. Most victims were climbing on rocks
and cliffs, playing in or near the surf, or
shore fishing.
Rip Currents — These powerful, channeled
water currents flow away from shore. They
typically extend from the shoreline, through
the surf zone, and past the line of breaking
waves. Rip currents can occur at any beach
with breaking waves.
If you are caught in the seaward rush of a
rip current, do not panic or attempt to swim
directly to the shore against the strong
current. Swim parallel to the shore until
you are out of the rip current; then, swim to
shore at an angle away from the rip current.
The rip current usually dissipates just
beyond the surf line. At this point, you may
swim around the current and back to shore.
In an emergency, dial 911. Remain
calm. Have someone keep an eye on the
swimmer in trouble. Give your location and
stay on the line with the dispatcher. Do not
attempt a water rescue yourself; wait for
trained professionals.
ACCESSIBLE features
• Four campsites at Bodega Dunes
are accessible. Willow Creek has two
accessible campsites. Pomo Canyon
has one accessible campsite on hardpacked dirt with parking 200 feet away.
• Restrooms at the campgrounds and
beach areas are accessible.
• Bodega Dunes has accessible coinoperated showers.
• Wind-blown sand may impede access
along the beach and dunes.
• Beach wheelchairs are available. To
reserve in advance, call (707) 875-3483.
• Wright’s Beach, Bodega Dunes day-use
area, and the picnic area near Vista Trail
have accessible picnic sites.
• The Vista Trail is a .7-mile accessible
asphalt trail overlooking coastal bluffs.
• Accessibility is continually improving. For
updates, visit http://access.parks.ca.gov.
PLEASE REMEMBER
• All natural and cultural features are
protected by law and may not be
disturbed nor removed.
• The shale formations of bluffs and rocks are
unstable and unsafe for climbing. Stay on
trails and heed fences and warning signs.
• For wildlife protection, dogs must always
be leashed. Except for service animals,
dogs are not allowed on any trails or
beaches or in environmental campgrounds.
Wildlife will avoid places where domestic
animals are kept.
• Ground fires are permitted only in
California State Parks fire rings. Beach fires
are prohibited.
• Wood gathering is not permitted. Firewood
may be purchased at Bodega Dunes or
Wright’s Beach.
• Drinking water is available only at Bodega
Dunes and Wright’s Beach campgrounds.
• Vehicles may not be driven into the
environmental campsites. Camping in a
recreational vehicle in the parking area is
not permitted.
• Swimming or wading in the ocean is
not recommended.
• Keep your site clean.
Great
When you leave, it should look
egret
as though no one had ever
been there.
• Park Headquarters is located
one mile north of Bodega
Dunes campground on
Highway 1.
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R e d H i ll
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Access to Upper Willow
Creek limited to current
permit holders only;
no new permits are
being issued at this time.
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Va
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Pacific Ocean
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Cr
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PA R K
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Westsho
Coast
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BODEGA HEAD
S T AT E M A R I N E
R E S E RV E
Head
Hole in
the Head
P Campbell
Cove
P
Bo
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eg
Bodega
Harbor
Bodega
il
Tra
to
San
Francisco
Campground: Hike/Bike
ran
Do
Picnic Area
Beach
Head
Trail
Road
Bodega
Restrooms
B
ay
Viewpoint
B O D E G A H E A D S T AT E
M A R I N E C O N S E R V AT I O N A R E A
America
Bod
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Showers
no
Head
RV Sanitation Station
Este
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ra
Do
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Be
Rd
DORAN
REGIONAL
PA R K
Bodega
Bay
a
1
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B O D E G A H E A D S T AT E
M A R I N E C O N S E R V AT I O N A R E A
Parking
© 2009 California State Parks (Rev. 2017)
Trail
es
ll
Hi
Horseshoe
Cove
y
BODEGA
BAY
BODEGA HEAD
S T AT E M A R I N E
R E S E RV E
PA R K
Bodega
Harbor
Beach
Campsites
WESTSIDE
U.C. Marine
Laboratory
Rd
Ba
BODEGA
BAY
il
Tra
Bodega
Dunes
Rd
Flat
Spud
Point
ide
Creek
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1
Plov
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J
Ra ack
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Tra it
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Os
p
Tra rey
il
Mussel
Point
see
detail
map
right
Salmon Creek
Ranger Office
Salmon
Ranger Station
y
o
tsh re
as R d
es
W
Oc
S a l m on
ek
Campground: Environmental
P
Ba
see detail
map above
Bodega
Dunes
Dunes
ic
Cre
North Salmon
Creek Beach
Campground
Marina
Bodega Dunes
Campground
Entrance
Ba
South
600 Feet
1 Km
1
Bodega Dunes
Day Use
Scrub Jay
Trail
Miwok Beach
150 Meters
0.5
E
Beach
cif
0
P
Coleman Beach
Pa
0
Salmon
leman
Co
SALMON
CREEK
Duncans Point
South
Dun
Marshall Gulch
Arched Rock Beach
Duncan’s
Cove
0.5 Mi
0
SALMON
CREEK
Creek
Gulch
y
CARMET
all
Marsh
Vall
e
Carmet Beach
1
0
on
Upper
Sc
Gleason
Beach
S alm
P
South
Salmon
Creek
Trail
S TAT E
Boat Launch
Locked Gate
Salmon Creek
Ranger Office
South Salmon
Creek
Campfire Center
Horse Staging Area
North Salmon
Creek Beach
Rd
y
n
OCEAN
VIEW
Accessible Feature
1-98
le
Co
il
Tra k
m oc
rtu t R )
Ko Goa ach
e
(to B
see
detail
map
left
Creek
Goat Rock to Shell Beach ................ 2.5 mi
Shell Beach to Wright’s Beach ...... 1.25 mi
Shell Beach - Pomo Canyon Trail .... 3.5 mi
Red Hill Trail Loop........................... 1.25 mi
Schoolhouse Beach
State Marine
Conservation Area
State Marine Recreational
Management Area
sh
Rd
Portuguese Beach
P
Creek
W il l o w
WILLOW
Trail
SONOMA
Death Rock
Duncan’s
Point
Duncan’s Cove
Rock Point
Entrance
Station
Duncan’s
Landing
at Rd
Trail
c
1
Ocean
Death
Rock
Bay Fl
P
Access by Permit Only
State Marine Reserve
Rd
Po
ifi
P
Wright’s
Beach
Duncan’s
Landing
18-28
Hogback
51-98
or
e
R
Pomo
Canyon
d
TRAIL MILEAGE
Entering
Fee Area
P
Extra Vehicle
Overflow
Bodega Harbor
We
st
Creek
Unpaved Road
Trail: Hike & Horse
ss
Wi ll o w
Furlong Gulch
Paved Road
Trail: Hike
ia
an
ch
n Gul
Russia
l
ac
Pac ific
P
Camp Host
#29
22-50
Bay Fla t R d
UPPER
Creek
COAST
0-17
(No Do
gs)
il
Tra
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W
Tra
il
w
Canyon
i
ra
mT
1
Shell Beach
OCEAN
VIEW
Trail: Accessible
s
kR
Cr
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illo
w
Wil
lo
Fu
Day Use
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rea
0.1 Km
1-21
rl
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Kort u
P
Legend
Major Road
Rd
y
Bodega
Dunes
Campground
to Beach
Parking Lot
hA
F la
Rock
Camp Host #18
1.5 Kilometers
P
BRIDGEHAVEN
Wright’s Beach
Campground
0.5
Willow
Creek
ac
0.1 Mi
0
y
Arched
Rock
This park receives support in part from
a nonprofit organization. For more
information contact:
Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods
P.O. Box 2 • Duncans Mills, CA 95430
(707) 869-9177
www.stewardsofthecoastandredwoods.org
Be
0
Camp Host
#21
Hw
Ba
at
PA R K
1 Mile
DUNCANS
MILLS
District
Headquarters
Go
Blind Beach
NEARBY STATE PARKS
• Armstrong Redwoods SNR and
Austin Creek SRA
17000 Armstrong Woods Road
Guerneville 95466 (707) 869-2015
• Fort Ross State Historic Park
19005 Highway 1, Jenner 95450
(707) 847-3286 / 847-4777 Educ.
Richmond
116
Goat Rock
to Hwy 1
Entrance
Station
n
pe
1
80
Up
s ia n
S TAT E
20
R i v er
us
hale
W oint
P
R
Vallejo
San Pablo
Bay
San
Rafael
30 Kilometers
ia
Penny
Island
37
Novato
Samuel P.
Taylor SP
20 Miles
10
MONTE RIO
em
RUSSIAN
R I V E R Goat
P
S T AT E Rock
M A R I N E Beach
C O N S E R V AT I O N
AREA
P
0
RUSSIAN RIVER
S T AT E M A R I N E
R E C R E AT I O N A L
MANAGEMENT
AREA
116
Napa
Boh
r
ne
Jen lch
Gu
Visitor
Center JENNER
er
Sonoma
SHP
Petaluma Adobe
SHP
Olompali SHP
10
Riv
VILLA
Jack London SHP
Sonoma
Petaluma
Point
Reyes
NS
0
k
ee
Pacific
Ocean
101
r
nC
Bodega
1
Bay
Marconi Conference
Center SHP
Tomales Bay SP
COAST
1
12
116
Rd
SONOMA
1
0.5
116
29
Sonoma Coast SP
P
0
Santa
Rosa
Ru s si
Bodega Bay
Russian Gulch
0
Lake
Berryessa
Guerneville
Jenner
Au s t i
Fort Ross
SHP
State Park
to
Guerneville
eek
Cr
Rd
Sonoma Coast
Au
y
in
de
1
Vista
Trail
Hw
Ru
ra
P
Vista
Point
o
Calistoga
st
er
Healdsburg
Austin Creek SRA,
Armstrong
Redwoods SNR
Lower
s
za
er
Ca
My
to
Ft. Ross
ro