Gerstle Cove Campground
Ever dreamed of unzipping your tent to a rugged coastline with insane ocean views?
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Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Salt Point State Park
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Your guide to camping in Gerstle Cove Campground
Overview
Biking
Mountain bikes must stay on paved or fire roads, however, fire roads are closed to bicycles from October 31 to April 30. Bikes are not allowed on single-track trails, however there are some local biking tips you can get here .
Boating
Motorized boating isn’t really available at this park, but that doesn’t mean you can’t hit the water! Grab your paddle and check out our section on kayaking and canoeing for tips and info!
Fishing
Salt Point is a very good spot for surf fishing. In the Gerstle Cove State Marine Reserve and the Stewarts Point State Marine Reserve, marine life is completely protected. Abalone diving, spearfishing, and rod and reel fishing are permitted elsewhere in the area. Anglers over the age of 16 must carry a valid California Fishing license . It also helps to learn from anglers who frequent the area, which you can do here .
Hiking
Salt Point has a ton to offer for the adventurous, but even a casual in hike in the park is pretty darn epic. There are over 20 miles of trail to choose from, but we recommend the Salt Point Trail , which gives you a good feel for the rugged coastline and beautiful rock landscapes (come on...get out there, it’s only 3 miles!). If you’d like to get into the forest a bit (there’s even a pygmy forest), go for the 4.6 mile Powerline Loop.
Horseback riding
There are over 20 miles of hiking and equestrian trails to explore in Salt Point State Park. Trail maps are available at the entrance station.
Paddling
Gerstle Cove is a protected launch site that kayakers often use to make their way out of the cove and into the open ocean for fishing and diving fun.
Climbing
Salt Point is known for its climbing, particularly its bouldering (which to date has over 30 problems to work on). The climbing is “tough,” but it’s incredibly beautiful, as a lot of it is along dramatic coastal stretches and nearby forests. It is worth doing some research beforehand and getting beta on the area here.
Wildlife watching
At Salt Point State Park, visitors can spot an array of birds such as pelicans, ospreys and woodpeckers. On land, visitors may also run into wildlife such as deer, bobcat and foxes. Hit the park on the right day, and you may even be able to wave hello to a gray whale or two.
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