We have always heard great things about Bodega Dunes so we finally decided to make a reservation! For our second camping trip in July, we packed up the camp gear and headed to the coast for some beach camping. Thanks to traffic, it took about three hours to reach the campsite. Luckily, the Esquibel Family made it shortly after check-in to snag one of the better sites (site 20). Check out our complete review below!
Bodega Dunes (Sonoma Coast State Beach) – July 2011
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
Location: Located off Highway 1 in between Jenner and Bodega Bay.
Amenities: Flushing toilets and showers
Pets: Allowed at no additional charge
Site: 2
Pros: Bodega Dunes Campground is located within the heart of Bodega and is central to many beaches off the coast. A quick drive will lead you to the town of Bodega where you can pick up some local salt water taffy and a kite. Along Highway 1 are many beaches…many of which have tide pools that you can explore. We recommend a stop at Miwok Beach during low-tide but be careful for the “sleeper waves”, as Miss Anna would call them. Never turn your back to the ocean! The campground is approximately 30 minutes away from Santa Rosa and many Sonoma County breweries. Jeff recommends Russian River Brewing Company and Lagunitas Brewing Company. Further out is Bear Republic Brewing Company in Healdsburg. Aside from being a great central spot for traveling outside the campground, the campground has it’s own beach access. A one mile walk from the campgrounds will lead you to the beach, which is very private and worth visiting. A big PRO…no bugs! Bathrooms and shower facilities were adequate and we did not have to wait long for showers (PS: showers are FREE).
Cons: Campsites are first come first serve…so it is highly recommended that you arrive at check-in time (2 pm). There are a lot of campsites that cannot accommodate large tents so you might want to ditch the large tent and bring a pup tent. Since the campground is located off the coast, the morning fog will bring moisture. Remember to pack up anything that you do not want to get wet (e.g. bring your folding chairs in every night so you have a dry seat to sit on in the morning). Campsites aren’t private and you might be fully exposed to the elements and your neighbors. Bring a canopy or two just in case.