There are free public areas, but those areas tend to get messy as people don't know how to clean after themselves and keep stuff nice. The paid area is maintained and you have access to the parking area, restrooms, showers and drive on beach area. That area is definitely better.
Free one area they charge to get in. Drive farther its free
You can also enter from the public roads, on the beach side, from the north and south. These areas are not maintained, are free and have no access to bathrooms or showers. The paid area is so much more pleasant.
$5 per person day pass. No camping. Being remodeled. Done in Nov.
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