Things to do at Salt Point State Park
Picnicking:
- Fisk Mill Cove - The day use area with barbeque, running water, and WC facilities is currently closed. When visiting make sure to take a short walk from the north lot to Sentinel Rock to see sweeping panoramic views of the Pacific which on a clear day paints the water a majestic royal blue.
- The sandy Stump Beach offers additional picnic tables near the parking lot and the convenience of a primitive toilet with no running water.
- South Gerstle Cove has some amazing views and offers plenty of picnic tables, and primitive toilet facilities.
Hiking and Horseback Riding:
Salt Point State Park offers over 20 miles of trails. Take the steep but short hike up to the park’s pygmy forest of cypress and pine trees or follow a bluff-top trail to explore the unspoiled natural environment. The possibilities and combinations of hiking trails are endless.
Marine Reserve:
Just below the visitor center in Salt Point State Park you will find the Gerstle Cove. Gerstle Cove is a State Marine Reserve (SMR) protected area within the Salt Point State Marine Conservation Area. No fishing is allowed in this area but it does offer visitors a launching spot for small boats and divers a chance to explore the wonders of the undersea world. It is also a great spot to explore tide pools, but please be careful not to inflict damage on the living organisms of the rocky intertidal zone.
Fishing:
Salt Point State Park offers some of the best fishing on-shore and off-shore fishing in Northern California. Lings, striped surfperch, cabezon and greenling varieties are abundant in these waters. Just use squid, shrimp, mussels, or smelt for bait. Don't hang in one spot for too long. There's a lot of territory to cover up there and those who cover some ground tend to find more fish. But be careful of weather conditions. Stay back from waves and slippery rock surfaces.
Fishing is permitted throughout the park with a valid California fishing license. Fishing at Gerstle Cove Marine Reserve and just north of the Fisk Mill Day Use parking is prohibited.
- Sea Kayaking
- Bike trails
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking Trails
- Horseback Trails
- Scuba Diving
- Wildlife Viewing