Point Reyes National Seashore · California
Beachfront camping near Alamere Falls, one of only two tide-falls in California where a waterfall drops directly onto the beach.
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70% of the openings our scanner caught on Wildcat Camp were gone within 10 minutes.
Palomarin Trailhead
Starting point near Bolinas. Gravel access road.
As of September 2026, Wildcat Camp in Point Reyes National Seashore, California requires a permit issued via reservation. Wildcat Camp is a high-demand permit, rating 7/10 on PermitSnag's demand index. Cancelled Wildcat Camp permits are re-released on the booking system, and PermitSnag alerts you the moment one opens. The Wildcat Camp route covers 11 miles, rated moderate.
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Wildcat Camp permit fee: $20/night.
Camp beside a rare tide-fall where freshwater cascades 40 feet directly onto Pacific sand, accessible only by hiking through protected wilderness.
Wildcat Camp is a backcountry campground in Point Reyes National Seashore, situated directly on Wildcat Beach. The camp serves as the primary access point for Alamere Falls, located approximately 1 mile south along the beach.
The camp features 8 individual sites and 3 group sites with picnic tables, food storage lockers, charcoal grills, pit toilets, and potable water.
Alamere Falls is one of only two tide-falls in California: waterfalls that drop directly onto the beach. The 40-foot cascade and its surrounding wilderness beach make Wildcat Camp one of the most sought-after backcountry destinations in the Bay Area. The camp's isolation means you'll likely have this spectacular coastline to yourself.
After miles of coastal trail, you descend to Wildcat Beach, a long stretch of sand bookended by eroding cliffs. A mile south, Alamere Falls spills over the bluff, its mist mixing with sea spray. At low tide, you can walk behind the falls; at high tide, you're trapped and watching from above. Either way, it's unforgettable: a private waterfall on a private beach, yours for the night.
Best for: Hikers seeking a moderate coastal backpacking trip with waterfall reward. Must understand tide safety.
Recommended experience: Basic backpacking experience and tide awareness required.
Not recommended for: Those unfamiliar with tide charts or uncomfortable near cliffs and ocean.
Trailhead information
260 ft elevation
Primary access to Wildcat Camp and Alamere Falls. Shorter approach than Bear Valley.
Gravel lot fills by mid-morning on weekends. Break-ins occur. Leave no valuables.
From Bolinas, take Mesa Road to its end. Last 1.5 miles is unpaved gravel.
Bolinas has limited services. Point Reyes Station (12 miles) has more options.
Fall (September-November) offers best weather. Spring has waterfall at peak flow but more fog. Check tides for Alamere Falls access: extreme low tides provide best viewing.
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Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Wildcat Camp.
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Wildcat Camp · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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PermitSnag alerts you the moment a Wildcat Camp cancellation opens, so you can book it before anyone else. Wildcat Camp permits use a reservation system.
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
This permit has a demand score of 7/10, making it highly competitive. We recommend having backup dates and using PermitSnag's cancellation alerts.
Cancellations happen daily. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to get notified the moment a spot opens up. Pro and $19 single-permit alerts are checked about every minute, 24/7; free accounts are checked hourly.
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Nearby camp with Sculptured Beach access. Shorter hike, similar experience.
Misses Alamere Falls but easier access.
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