Roundstonefarm Blog

Sunset Magazine’s May 2010 issue lists boat-in camping on Tomales Bay as one of its top 25 secret camping spots.  Well, thanks a lot, for if it was a secret, it’s not a secret anymore. But, being a local, I’ve got to admit that it’s tough to beat a paddle across Tomales Bay on a calm, warm day. If  it’s windy, forget it because you’re gonna work. If you don’t own a kayak or just don’t want to drag yours along, you can rent one at Blue Water Kayak (www.bwkayak.com) or Point Reyes Outdoors (www.pointreyesoutdoors.com). Both offer great guided trips (some with food) if you don’t want to go it alone. If you plan on camping on any of the beaches, you will need to get a camping permit from the Pt. Reyes National Seashore. You can get the permit at the Park’s “Bear Valley Visitor Center” in Olema. Check out their website at www.nps.gov/pore for more information.

Cindy Muldoon has been named the Superindendent of Pt. Reyes National Seashore and will start her new position in mid-May. Ms. Muldoon has been with the National Park Service since 1985  and has occupied varied Park  Service positions throughout the United States. She is currently serving as the deputy regional director of the National Park Service’s Pacific West Region. Ms. Muldoon replaces Don Neubacher whom, since February, is  serving as the Superintendent of Yosemite National Park.

From March 1 through June 30,  Drakes Estero is closed to protect the breeding colony of harbor seals. The closure applies to kayak and canoe usage but is applicable to any other water sport users around harbor seal colonies in the area.

The east side of Hog Island in Tomales Bay is also a land resting area for harbor seals year round. Visitors are asked to stay at least 100 yards away from resting seals. Never pick up a seal pup that may look abandoned. Although they may appear abandoned, they are most likely waiting for their mother to return. Pups are about two feet long and weigh about 25 pounds and are weaned at 30 days.

For more information check www.nps.gov/pore

Pt. Reyes National Seashore and the West Marin Chamber of Commerce (www.pointreyes.org) are cosponsoring “Celebrating Life on the Edge.” This is a weeklong event to celebrate Pt. Reyes winter wildlife and maritime heritage. Multiple events are scheduled daily from Saturday, January 16 through Sunday January 24. Check-out the special events hosted by local businesses at: www.ptreyes.org. www.bwkayak.com, Drakes Beach Cafe (415) 669-1297, Farmhouse Restaurant (415) 663-1264 and Station House Cafe at www.stationhousecafe.com. Roundstone Farm will be offering a 3 for 2 night special Monday thru Thursday. Request your reservation at www.roundstonefarm.com or by leaving me a message at (800) 881-9874. It’s the first time we’ve ever had anything out here like this,  it should be great! Frank