Starlight Meadow

01.05.10 - 10:46 am | Gary Hanauer |

(0)

Rating: B

Rimmed by an estimated 200 acres of woods, a large field near the town of Dogwood has become the first clothing-optional meadow in the U.S. From Hagmier Pond (see next entry), expect about a 20-minute walk to the 60-acre site, which is good for picnicking, sunbathing, reading, and relaxing.

Legal status:

GGNRA land managed by Point Reyes National Seashore.

How to find it:

From Stinson Beach, go north on Highway 1, passing Audubon Canyon Ranch on the right and, a half mile later, the Bolinas turnoff. After the four-way intersection, look for a GGNRA sign on the right, followed by a eucalyptus grove. Then check for a tree with a sign for Dogtown. Farther along Highway 1, you'll pass a red barn, a silver windmill, and a second eucalyptus grove. After the grove, when you get to the 12th bend in the road (be sure to count them), look for a group of some 20 eucalyptus trees. Park next to the rocks on either side of the highway. Enter through the lift-up gate in the fence on the east side of the highway, then take an easy, gradually climbing path about 15 or 20 minutes to Starlight, a large meadow in the middle of the trees.

The beach:

Not exactly a beach per se, but a meadow ringed by a large expanse of woods.

The Crowd:

Mostly gay males, but some heterosexual couples also use the meadow. An estimated 50 people on the hottest summer weekends and as many as 10 on weekdays.

Problems:

Pullover easy to miss; lack of water; some gawkers; sexual activity; trail may be muddy.