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(6/19-21) Father's Day Camping at Point Reyes: 🏕️ Kayak Tomales Bay 🦭 Coast Miwok Village Hike 🔭 Explore Lighthouse 🌲 Tree Tunnel + Spot Tule Elk 🦌

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Friday, June 19 — Sunday, June 21, 2026

One of the most dramatic coastlines in California is about to become your family's backyard for Father's Day weekend. We'll paddle the glassy waters of Tomales Bay past harbor seals and bat rays, explore a reconstructed Coast Miwok village, and scramble along a rocky shoreline teeming with critters — sea anemones, hermit crabs, mussels and more hiding in every crevice and cave. We'll also discover the famous Tree Tunnel, keep our eyes peeled for tule elk roaming the open grasslands, and make our way out to the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse perched above the crashing Pacific — some of the most iconic scenery on the California coast.

WHAT WE'LL ENJOY 🥳🥳🥳

🚣🏽‍♀️🦭 KAYAK TOMALES BAY: We'll launch right from the beach at the heart of the national seashore and paddle the calm, protected waters of Tomales Bay — one of the most beautiful paddles in Northern California. Harbor seals, moon jellies, bat rays, and leopard sharks are all real possibilities. No prior experience needed; families paddle together in tandem kayaks. This is a self-guided experience, meaning we won’t be going on a kayaking tour but as a group together.

🌲🔍 HIKE TO A COAST MIWOK VILLAGE: After kayaking, we'll follow a trail through an ancient bishop pine forest to Indian Beach, where a reconstructed Coast Miwok dwelling gives kids a window into the lives of the people who called this coastline home for thousands of years. One of those rare moments where history and nature meet in a meaningful way.

🔭🦌 LIGHTHOUSE, TREE TUNNEL, TULE ELK + THE WILD HEADLANDS: The Point Reyes Lighthouse is one of those places that stops kids in their tracks — perched at the edge of dramatic cliffs with the Pacific crashing below and views that stretch forever. We'll wind through the famous Tree Tunnel on the way, keep our eyes peeled for tule elk roaming the open grasslands (we almost always spot them!), and stop at Drakes Beach where elephant seals sometimes haul out (no guarantees since it’s off season, but always worth a look and the beach is great 🦭). Pure NorCal magic.

🔍🦀🌊 EXPLORE THE ROCKY SHORES TEEMING WITH CRITTERS: Heart's Desire Beach is a treasure hunt waiting to happen. Tuck into the rocky coves and little sea caves that line the shore and you'll find sea anemones, mussels, hermit crabs, and all kinds of hidden creatures in the pools. We've even spotted a manta ray washed ashore on a past trip — this is the kind of beach that rewards the curious explorer. Bring your water shoes and your sense of wonder. 🧒🏽🔬

🔍🏅 EARN NATURE BADGES: Kids can become a Rock Investigator, Critter Sleuth, Tide Pool Tracker, Raptor Scout and more — earning a sticker for each one in their nature journal. Activities are woven throughout the weekend and designed to spark real curiosity about the wild world around them.

🦌🦅🦭 WILDLIFE ALL AROUND: Point Reyes is one of the most biodiverse national seashores in the country. Keep your eyes open for harbor seals, tule elk, bald eagles, ospreys, cormorants, leopard sharks, and more.

🔥🍫 CLASSIC CAMPING FUN: Campfire, s'mores, stories and stargazing.

🐐🐐🐐 Oh, and one more thing — our campground has a resident herd of goats that roam the grounds. They are ridiculously cute and the kids absolutely love them. Consider it a bonus farm animal experience!

🌿♻️ LEAVE NO TRACE ADVENTURE: We'll talk about what it means to be a responsible steward of a national seashore — and put it into practice all weekend.

🏕️❤️🫂🤲🏽 COMMUNITY, FRIENDSHIP + SUPPORT: Instant playdate for the kids — a great mix of ages from toddlers to tweens, all adventuring together. Solo parenting? Forgot gear? Need help with your tent? We've got you.

This is our idea of SUMMER CAMP for kids — but it's for the whole family, and we get to explore a different amazing park every time. You will make wonderful memories with your family and friends. 🏕️❤️🫂🤲🏽

Pricing Types:

Friday, June 19 — Sunday, June 21, 2026

One of the most dramatic coastlines in California is about to become your family's backyard for Father's Day weekend. We'll paddle the glassy waters of Tomales Bay past harbor seals and bat rays, explore a reconstructed Coast Miwok village, and scramble along a rocky shoreline teeming with critters — sea anemones, hermit crabs, mussels and more hiding in every crevice and cave. We'll also discover the famous Tree Tunnel, keep our eyes peeled for tule elk roaming the open grasslands, and make our way out to the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse perched above the crashing Pacific — some of the most iconic scenery on the California coast.

WHAT WE'LL ENJOY 🥳🥳🥳

🚣🏽‍♀️🦭 KAYAK TOMALES BAY: We'll launch right from the beach at the heart of the national seashore and paddle the calm, protected waters of Tomales Bay — one of the most beautiful paddles in Northern California. Harbor seals, moon jellies, bat rays, and leopard sharks are all real possibilities. No prior experience needed; families paddle together in tandem kayaks. This is a self-guided experience, meaning we won’t be going on a kayaking tour but as a group together.

🌲🔍 HIKE TO A COAST MIWOK VILLAGE: After kayaking, we'll follow a trail through an ancient bishop pine forest to Indian Beach, where a reconstructed Coast Miwok dwelling gives kids a window into the lives of the people who called this coastline home for thousands of years. One of those rare moments where history and nature meet in a meaningful way.

🔭🦌 LIGHTHOUSE, TREE TUNNEL, TULE ELK + THE WILD HEADLANDS: The Point Reyes Lighthouse is one of those places that stops kids in their tracks — perched at the edge of dramatic cliffs with the Pacific crashing below and views that stretch forever. We'll wind through the famous Tree Tunnel on the way, keep our eyes peeled for tule elk roaming the open grasslands (we almost always spot them!), and stop at Drakes Beach where elephant seals sometimes haul out (no guarantees since it’s off season, but always worth a look and the beach is great 🦭). Pure NorCal magic.

🔍🦀🌊 EXPLORE THE ROCKY SHORES TEEMING WITH CRITTERS: Heart's Desire Beach is a treasure hunt waiting to happen. Tuck into the rocky coves and little sea caves that line the shore and you'll find sea anemones, mussels, hermit crabs, and all kinds of hidden creatures in the pools. We've even spotted a manta ray washed ashore on a past trip — this is the kind of beach that rewards the curious explorer. Bring your water shoes and your sense of wonder. 🧒🏽🔬

🔍🏅 EARN NATURE BADGES: Kids can become a Rock Investigator, Critter Sleuth, Tide Pool Tracker, Raptor Scout and more — earning a sticker for each one in their nature journal. Activities are woven throughout the weekend and designed to spark real curiosity about the wild world around them.

🦌🦅🦭 WILDLIFE ALL AROUND: Point Reyes is one of the most biodiverse national seashores in the country. Keep your eyes open for harbor seals, tule elk, bald eagles, ospreys, cormorants, leopard sharks, and more.

🔥🍫 CLASSIC CAMPING FUN: Campfire, s'mores, stories and stargazing.

🐐🐐🐐 Oh, and one more thing — our campground has a resident herd of goats that roam the grounds. They are ridiculously cute and the kids absolutely love them. Consider it a bonus farm animal experience!

🌿♻️ LEAVE NO TRACE ADVENTURE: We'll talk about what it means to be a responsible steward of a national seashore — and put it into practice all weekend.

🏕️❤️🫂🤲🏽 COMMUNITY, FRIENDSHIP + SUPPORT: Instant playdate for the kids — a great mix of ages from toddlers to tweens, all adventuring together. Solo parenting? Forgot gear? Need help with your tent? We've got you.

This is our idea of SUMMER CAMP for kids — but it's for the whole family, and we get to explore a different amazing park every time. You will make wonderful memories with your family and friends. 🏕️❤️🫂🤲🏽

  • Car camping at Olema Campground — drive right in and park close to your tent site.

    Hikes are easy and well-maintained, with minimal elevation change — perfect for little legs and families carrying kids. We'll make plenty of stops to explore, snack, and play.

    Kayaking requires no prior experience — equipment and a safety briefing are provided at the beach. Kids paddle with a parent in a tandem kayak. Children as young as 2 are welcome as long as conditions are calm (which they almost always are on Tomales Bay).

    All activities are family-friendly and suitable for all ages.

  • Subject to change due to weather, trail conditions, etc.

    Friday, June 19

    • 4 PM: Check-in at Olema Campground

    • Set up camp, explore the grounds

    • Families enjoy dinner on their own

    • Evening: Campfire — s'mores, introductions, get to know each other

    Saturday, June 20

    • 8:30 AM: Caravan to Heart's Desire Beach (~20 min)

    • 9–11 AM: Self-guided kayaking on Tomales Bay; we’ll go as a group. Alternate activity for those who don’t want to kayak

    • Late morning: Snack, then short hike Heart's Desire → Indian Beach through bishop pine forest; explore Coast Miwok village

    • Midday: Picnic lunch at beach

    • Afternoon: Tide pool exploration, beach play, nature badge activities

    • Optional stop: Bear Valley Visitor Center on the way back (excellent exhibits, great for kids)

    • Evening: Campfire + badge activity session

    Sunday, June 21 — Father's Day 🎉

    • Morning: Point Reyes Lighthouse + headlands views

    • Drakes Beach (elephant seal viewing from the overlook — fingers crossed we see any, it’s off season so we may end up not seeing any but exploring a beautiful beach!)

    • A beloved tree tunnel that's one of those classic Point Reyes moments 🌳

    • Optional: Celebratory lunch in town before heading home

  • 🚗 Car camping — park right next to your tent site

    🏕️ Tent camping + pop-up tents on vehicles — if you want to bring an RV or trailers let Miranda know

    🔥 Fire rings and picnic tables at every site (campfire subject to park conditions; we can use a gas stove for s'mores if needed)

    🚽 Modern flush toilets near campsites

    🚿 Free hot showers, cleaned daily

    🛒 Small on-site camp store for essentials

    👕 Laundromat on site

    🛝 Fenced playground + volleyball and shuffleboard courts

    🐶 Dog park on site (but dogs aren’t allowed on Point Reyes’ trails)

    💧 Drinking water throughout the campground

    🗑️ Trash and recycling facilities

    💡 No electricity at tent sites — bring headlamps or lanterns!

  • We've booked several adjoining campsites so our group will be together in one area — think big communal backyard energy. 🏕️

    Sites are open and grassy with minimal shade, and mostly flat — easy to set up and great for kids to run around. There's a small creek nearby (more of a gentle trickle, but the kids will find it 😄).

    Coming with friends? Please let us know on the sign-up form and we'll do our best to place you on the same campsite. 🙌🏾

  • What We Provide

    We are focused on providing the best family camping experience possible by offering families the chance to join a community of like-minded families who love the outdoors. We handle all the planning for busy parents, organizing well-planned, fun and educational activities like hiking, kayaking and caving, while providing camp classic experiences like S'mores and stories around the campfire, plus arts and crafts. Our goal is to create memorable adventures while managing all the logistics so you can focus on making memories with your family.

    Campsite Reality & Expectations

    We work hard to secure the best available campsites for our group while managing the realities of California's extremely competitive camping landscape. Booking campsites in California is challenging, with only seconds to secure anything when reservations open, if availability exists at all.

    Campsite conditions vary significantly and may include:

    • Different ground surfaces (grass, dirt, or gravel)

    • Sloped or uneven terrain

    • Varying levels of shade (from heavily wooded to open sun)

    • Different views and proximity to water features

    • Natural wildlife including wasps, insects, and other critters

    • Varying noise levels from other campers

    • Different facility conditions and accessibility

    • Parking offsite: In some cases, families will have to park in overflow parking when number of vehicles exceed the maximum per site. Overflow parking could be a walk or drive away. The guide will drive you to your car if need be.

    Group camping logistics: When group campsites aren't available, we book individual campsites as close together as possible, though proximity cannot always be guaranteed. In these situations, we designate one site as "Camp HQ" for group activities like S'mores, arts and crafts, and community gatherings. You may need to walk or drive short distances between your assigned campsite and Camp HQ.

    Weather and environmental factors: Outdoor conditions including weather, temperature, and natural elements are beyond our control and can affect your camping experience.

    Agreement

    We do not make promises about specific campsite features, views, terrain, or conditions. Our commitment is to secure the best available sites and provide exceptional programming and community experiences. By booking with us, you acknowledge and accept these conditions as part of the authentic outdoor camping experience.

  • 🐦 EARLY BIRD PRICING — expires Sunday, May 17, 10 PM:

    • Single-income family*: $375

    • Dual-income family*: $550

    PRICING AFTER MAY 17:

    • Single-income family*: $425

    • Dual-income family*: $595

    FAMILY means you, your partner and kids. One tent + car per family.

    • After 1 kid, $65 charge for each additional child to cover treats, badge, and educational materials

    • No refunds are provided

    • Camping trip takes place rain or shine

    • SPOTS ARE LIMITED: Only 17 spots available — the only way to hold your place is by completing the sign-up form and making payment

  • TOMALES BAY SELF-GUIDED KAYAK RENTAL (separate from FAS guiding fee)

    We'll be launching directly from the beach at the heart of Point Reyes National Seashore for a self-guided paddle on some of the most protected, wildlife-rich water in Northern California. Tandem kayaks can fit two adults plus one small child in the middle — making this a family-friendly option. Rentals are priced per kayak (not per person).

    Pricing:

    • $50 per hour per tandem kayak (fits up to 2 adults + 1 small child)

    • We recommend a 2-hour rental block: $100 per kayak

    How much will kayaking cost for your family?

    • 2 adults (or 2 adults + 1 small child): $100 (1 kayak, 2 hrs)

    • 2 adults + 2 kids: $200 (2 kayaks, 2 hrs)

    • 1 adult + 1 child: $100 (1 kayak, 2 hrs)

    Payment Instructions: Pay Miranda via Venmo or Zelle: 650-888-2765

    Label your payment: "KAYAKING - [Your Name] - [Number of kayaks]"

    Not into kayaking? No worries — an alternative activity will be offered for families who prefer to stay at the beach and explore on foot.

    1. Add this adventure to your cart and checkout!

    2. Join the WhatsApp chat: https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ed9qNjVGwNiIKtBfrlbXjx

    3. Complete loaner kit request: https://bit.ly/loanerkit

    • 🗺️ All logistics and planning

    • 🥾 Guided adventures

    • 📖 Digital guide with natural and cultural history of the area

    • ✅ Camping checklist

    • ⛺ Assistance with camp setup

    • 🔬 Outdoor Adventure Lab for the kids — kids earn a nature sticker for each completed activity (rock investigator, critter sleuth, tide pool tracker, and more!), collected in their own nature journal. Plus arts and crafts, a scavenger hunt, and hands-on challenges designed for little explorers.

    • 🗺️ Iron-on patch as a memento of the trip + a small journal for parents to document the adventure

    • 🍫 S'mores kit for the group

    • 🪵 Firewood and charcoal

    • 🩹 First-aid kit

    • 🎒 Loaner kit of hiking gear (48-hour notice) — I have items for kids and adults, including single/double jogging strollers, Baby Bjorn infant carrier, toddler backpack carrier, beach wagons, and more. Complete the loaner kit request form

    • Kayaking: You must pay for this separately (see KAYAKING FEE tab on this page)

    • Food (we can potluck the side dishes if people want)

    • Camping gear (though I have some hiking gear and limited camping gear that you can rent: loaner kit request form)

  • Mid-June in Point Reyes means classic coastal Marin weather — morning fog that usually burns off by late morning, with daytime temps in the low-to-mid 60s. Nights at the campground drop into the low-to-mid 50s. A season-3 sleeping bag is perfect. Layers are your best friend — and a light windbreaker is encouraged, especially out on the headlands: https://www.familyadventuresquad.org/blog/winter-camping-tips

    I'll be keeping an eye on the weather and will advise you as we get closer to the trip. Low 50s can be warm for some but cool for others. Here are some tips to keep you warm overnight:

WHERE WE ARE STAYING