201 Doran Beach Road
Bodega Bay
Description
This park is located at the south end of town, just off of Highway 1. The park is a narrow peninsula of 127 acres that forms the southern boundary of the Bodega Harbor, and the northern boundary of Bodega Bay. The main feature of this park is a two-mile long stretch of sandy beach. During low tides visitors are often able to access the Pinnacle Gulch beach by climbing over a moderate rock formation. Pinnacle Beach can also be accessed by a foot trail in the over-viewing housing development. The peninsula can be best described as a human-made sandbar, complete with a jetty and habitat of native plant and animal species.
Activities
- Crabbing
- Rock & Surf Fishing
- Camping
- Tidal Pool Exploration
- Beachcombing
- Bird Watching
- Dune Ecology
- Saltwater Marsh Ecology
- Marine Life Observation
- Astronomy
- Picnicking
Facilities
There are 8 tent-only sites and generally 125 family campsites available. Each site has a table and fire ring and is available on a first-come, first-serve basis only. A group campsite is available for reservation and accommodates between 25 and 60 people. There are three shower houses located throughout the campgrounds. Park staff-lead interpretive programs are often presented during high use months. A boat launch, fish cleaning station and rock jetty is also available. Tours of the U.S. Coast Guard Station, located inside the park, are available by appointment only. Please call 875-3596 for further information.
Fire: In designated fire rings only.
Water: Yes
Wood: See Park Staff—No wood gathering is allowed
Comments
Even the most well seasoned campers will enjoy Doran Beach with its long sandy beach perfect for playing games and doing activities that would otherwise be too rough on normal ground. Make sure to include gear for windy conditions. The University of California has a working marine lab located on the opposite side of the harbor. Tours are available every Friday between 2:00 P.M. and 4:00 P.M. For further information please call 875-2211.