Islay Creek Campground

While this park’s location along the Pacific means that there are, theoretically, endless possibilities for boating, the park does not have a boat launch, meaning that you will have to put in elsewhere. There are, however, some really great kayaking opportunities along the coastline, so be sure to check out that section as well!

The coastline that stretches all along the western border of the park means that there are as many opportunities for you to catch a fish as there are spots to sink a line (be extremely careful, however, as the surf is quite dangerous). Once you grab your license, check out the fishing situation in the California surf (word in the local forums is that the kayak fishing isn’t half bad either).

Camping here means that some of the best hiking in Northern California is literally just outside your door. Depending on which way you point your hiking boots, your trail may lead you along hillsides with stunning ocean views, through lush ecosystems that include a eucalyptus forest, down to the beach with its secret tidepool pockets of life, or to the top of Valencia Peak for a truly breathtaking panoramic of the landscape below. Trails range in length and difficulty, but there is really something for all skill levels, be they looking for an exhilarating hike or a gentle trip along the beautiful scenery.

Greetings, equestrians! If you love to explore by horseback, there are ample opportunities to take in the ruggedly beautiful landscape from a new perspective. There are five horse camps available for family and group outings, and while there are no horse rentals available, the camps do provide pipe corrals and plenty of parking for horse trailers. Not all trails are acceptable for horses, so be sure to double check before you head out!

Sea kayaking is big in this area, and the park’s coastal location means lots of beach and water access. Try a sunset cruise along Spooner’s Cove, which also makes a great launch spot and is nicely protected from the rougher open waters. Or, if you are up for more of journey, make the trip from Spooner’s Cove to Morro Bay. There are no rentals in the park, but there are several places in the area that do, meaning that there is no excuse to not get out there and get a whale’s eye perspective of the park.

Word on the street is Sandspit is the place to go if want to catch a wave, but definitely exercise caution and use your judgement before jumping in, as the currents are pretty strong, there is a steep dropoff, and the water can be quite treacherous.

While those gorgeous waters certainly are tempting, the currents can be pretty dangerous, even for experienced swimmers. Swimming really isn’t advisable, as, in addition to the heavy currents, the bottom swiftly drops to deep water, there are no lifeguards on duty, and the water conditions are usually unpredictable.

A wild coastline usually means some pretty great wildlife, and Montana State Park is no exception. Keep your eye out for the red flash of the beak of the the black oyster-catcher, found along the rocky shore, as well as pigeon guillemots, cormorants, western gulls and red-tailed hawk. Black-tailed deer, coyote, brush rabbits, raccoons and, occasionally, a mountain lion, call the hills, valleys and bluffs that make up the park home. Definitely watch where you are walking, though, as rattlesnakes have been found in the park (presumably giving Rattlesnake Flats its name).