Ocean Cove Campground
- Rosie Mae
- Jun 16, 2019
- 2 min read
Most of my travels are spontaneous and not planned. I like to see as much as possible in one trip or just drive without a plan in mind. So, I found myself in serious need of ocean therapy.
I woke up on Sunday morning, packed my dog, and drove along highway 1, in search of absolute clarity. I stopped in Bodega Bay to touch the famous church featured in the classic Hitchcock horror film, The Byrds.
The church stands on a high hill with its large colorful stained glass windows, tall steeple and wooden doors. Though I have not been inside in years, I only stopped to take my dog for a walk. Church was in session. Behind the church, sits the old Potter School (est 1878). The signage on the gate indicates it is no longer a school but privately owned. It was restored in 1966 after being used in The Byrds in 1962. Still a landmark and beautiful to visit.
Be sure to use All Trails hiking app or a guide to locate dog friendly hikes and beaches. I didn’t do my research ahead of time and spent a lot of time seeing the “no pet” sign.
I ended up at Salt Point Park, but turned around because my dog wasn’t allowed on the beach. Disappointed, I drove south to Ocean Cove Campground. Dog friendly!!
The camp site is first come first serve basis (reservation for groups only). Day use is available. Across the Ocean Cove Store, is a large parking lot (before entering the campgrounds). Port-o-pittys and showers provided. The store even serves lunch. If camping isn’t your preference, Ocean Cove Lodge Bar & Grill is available. I've never been.
Last year, I camped at Ocean Cove. The campgrounds are on a cliff overlooking the ocean. It is such a beautiful view to wake up to. Windy, yes. That is the coastal weather for you.
The coastline is made up of sandstone rocks, great for climbing. There is a boat ramp for even small excursions like kayaking. I wouldn’t paddle board the area due to the large rocks and strong tide. The campground stretches 40 acres, so hike through the trees that have morphed together to form coves. Don’t hike alone. There are lot of areas hidden from public view. BUT… it could be fun for couples who take adventure to a whole different (horny) level.
My dog and I enjoyed the sun beating down, the windy salting my hair, and the beautiful scenery as we hiked 4 miles south of the campground. We hiked back up towards the car and I stopped and sat on a rock, which overlooked the ocean.
Tide was coming in fast and the waves crashed against the rocks with full force. My dog sat and stared at the ocean, in awe maybe? He has never seen the coast. I took out my laptop and completed some blog posts. And, I began to write this one.
XO - R. Mae
Ocean Cove Campground - Jenner , Ca // http://oceancove.org // IG: @ocean.cove
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