🌤 Weather at Salt Point State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 42–62 °F | 46–67 °F | 44–67 °F | 42–58 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Fort Ross, 7 mi away, elevation 112 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Salt Point State Park protects 6,000 acres of rugged Sonoma Coast wilderness along 6+ miles of dramatic California coastline. This diving and tidepooling paradise includes the underwater Gerstle Cove State Marine Reserve, spectacular tidepools, coastal camping, and 20+ miles of hiking trails. A premier destination for ocean exploration where rocky bluffs meet crashing waves!
🦪 Abalone Status 2026
- Red abalone harvest: CLOSED since 2017
- Proposed extension: Until April 1, 2036
- Population recovery ongoing
- Diving still excellent—just look, don’t take!
Gerstle Cove Marine Reserve
| Diving Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🤿 Type | State Marine Reserve |
| 🐟 Status | Fully protected—no take! |
| 🌿 Marine Life | Rich underwater ecosystem |
| 🎯 Best For | Scuba, snorkeling, photography |
Tidepools
| Tidepool Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🌊 Best Time | Low tide |
| ⭐ Quality | Spectacular! |
| 📍 Access | Multiple coastal points |
Coastal Camping
| Campground | Sites | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🌊 Gerstle Cove | 30 | Ocean side of Hwy 1—views! |
| 🌲 Woodside | 79 | East of Hwy 1 (closed winter) |
| 🚐 Overflow | Varies | Self-contained only, no fires |
| 🚲 Hiker/Biker | Available | First-come basis |
| Campsite Amenities | Details |
|---|---|
| 🔥 Fire Rings | Yes (main campgrounds) |
| 🐻 Food Lockers | All sites |
| 💧 Water | Available |
| 🚿 Showers | No |
| 🚐 Max Camper | 31 feet |
| 🚛 Max Trailer | 27 feet |
20+ Miles of Trails
| Trail Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 📏 Total Miles | 20+ |
| 🌊 Coastal Access | Multiple points |
| 🌲 Terrain | Coastal bluffs to forest |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still dive for abalone?
No. The recreational red abalone fishery has been closed since 2017 due to severe population decline (purple urchin barrens destroyed kelp forests). A proposed amendment would extend the closure until April 1, 2036. You can still dive and snorkel—just look, photograph, and enjoy the marine life, but do NOT take any abalone.
What is Gerstle Cove Marine Reserve?
Gerstle Cove is a fully protected State Marine Reserve where no marine life may be taken. This protection has allowed incredible underwater ecosystems to flourish, making it one of the best diving and snorkeling spots on the Sonoma Coast. The rich marine life makes it a premier underwater photography destination.
Which campground has ocean views?
Gerstle Cove Campground is located on the ocean side of Highway 1 with 30 sites and coastal views! Woodside Campground (79 sites) is on the east side of the highway in a forested setting. Note that Woodside closes for winter.
When is the best time for tidepooling?
Tidepools are best explored at low tide. Check tide charts before your visit—the park’s spectacular tidepools are revealed when the ocean pulls back. Look for sea stars, anemones, urchins, and countless other marine invertebrates.
Are drones allowed?
No. Drones are not permitted within Salt Point State Park. This protects the wildlife and ensures a peaceful experience for all visitors.
🤿 Sonoma Coast Diving Paradise
Explore underwater marine reserves, discover spectacular tidepools, and camp along 6 miles of rugged coastline. Visit the official Salt Point State Park website for camping reservations.
Explore More California State Parks
Salt Point State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in California. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in California guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Rhododendron State Park (a short drive away) or Fort Ross State Historic Park (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Salt Point State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Dogs are permitted in California State Parks only in developed areas — campgrounds, picnic areas, parking lots and paved roads — and are prohibited on most trails, beaches and undeveloped areas unless specifically designated as dog-friendly.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Maximum 6-foot leash at all times; dogs may not be left unattended.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Dogs are prohibited on most state beaches; only beaches specifically designated as dog-allowed permit them (varies by park).
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are generally not allowed in buildings or cabins; overnight campers must keep dogs inside a tent or vehicle at night.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Designated dog-friendly trails and beaches vary park by park; misrepresenting a pet as a service animal is a misdemeanor.
Are dogs allowed at Salt Point State Park?
Dogs are permitted in California State Parks only in developed areas — campgrounds, picnic areas, parking lots and paved roads — and are prohibited on most trails, beaches and undeveloped areas unless specifically designated as dog-friendly. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via parks.ca.gov. More: California state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Salt Point State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
