Cabin rentals near Belmont, California occupy diverse settings within a 50-mile radius, from coastal redwood forests to mountain parks. Winter temperatures at these elevated woodland cabin sites typically range 15-20°F cooler than in Belmont proper, with nighttime lows frequently dropping to 40°F even in summer months. Cabins in this region receive significant winter rainfall with December through February averaging 5-7 inches monthly.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Big Basin Redwoods State Park, trails lead to multiple waterfall destinations. "Best thing about this campground is proximity to the Berry Creek Falls... a huge series of water falls on a super long and strenuous hike," notes one visitor. The park offers seasonal hiking variations with spring providing optimal waterfall viewing.
Horseback riding: Near cabins in the Point Reyes area, guided trail rides are available. "I would highly recommend Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding," suggests a camper who stayed at Samuel P. Taylor State Park. Trail rides range from 1-hour beginner-friendly outings to full-day advanced excursions.
Archery: Mount Madonna County Park maintains a dedicated 28-target archery course through the woods. "There is an archery trail with 28 targets on a trail through the woods. We were there 3 days in a row and did 20 of the 28. It's really pretty and a cool challenge," explains a visitor to the park's cabin area.
Beach activities: The woodland cabins provide access to nearby coastal areas. A visitor at Olema Campground notes, "Close to multiple beaches" while another recommends "you can drive to hwy 1 north to go eat oysters or seafood." Most beaches are within a 15-30 minute drive from woodland cabin sites.
What campers like
Rustic architectural details: The simple cabin designs at Steep Ravine Campground feature unique historical elements. "These cabins are well worth the cost. There is a separate bedroom, you could sleep 2 couples on beds easily with extra floor space and a small individual bunk for larger families," notes one visitor about these Mount Tamalpais cabins near Belmont.
Creek access: Several cabin locations feature stream proximity. At Samuel P. Taylor State Park, a visitor mentioned, "We like the sites in the high teens (18 & 19), as they seem a bit larger and are right along the creek." Another notes the "stream is accessible shallow" providing natural play areas.
Wood stoves: Cabin heating options vary by location with wood stoves proving popular in coastal settings. At Del Valle Campground, a staying option within driving distance from Belmont, wood stoves become particularly valuable during seasonal temperature drops. The region's evening coastal fog can rapidly lower temperatures regardless of season.
Wildlife viewing: Many cabins are positioned for optimal wildlife sighting. One visitor at Mount Madonna County Park observed "white fallow deer. They are descendants of the exotic zoo at William Randolph Hearst's mansion down the coast." Other common wildlife sightings include wild turkeys, raccoons, and various bird species.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Securing cabin reservations requires advance planning. For Steep Ravine Campground, a reviewer advises, "You need to be ready to click 'reserve' on the website at no less than 5 minutes before the window opens for your dates of interest, which was 6 months ahead of time when I reserved."
Mouse control measures: Some rustic cabins require precautions against mice. "There were several brand new mouse traps provided at the entrance to my cabin. You'll need them," warns a visitor to the coastal cabins at Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA. Removing food items nightly helps mitigate this issue.
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for significant day-to-night temperature changes. "It can get warm in the summer, but the cool moist ocean fog comes in and blankets the area in the evenings, which can really cool it down," explains a Samuel P. Taylor camper. Pack additional warm layers regardless of season.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely between cabin locations. At Cotillion Gardens, a reviewer notes, "There was no AT&T service for me, but free WiFi was available so it was fine." Signal strength depends on elevation and proximity to towns.
Tips for camping with families
Poison oak awareness: Educate children about identifying this common plant. A Samuel P. Taylor visitor cautions, "Also, lots of poison oak in the unmaintained areas and off the trails, so be aware." Bringing identification pictures helps younger family members recognize what to avoid.
Kid-friendly activities: Many cabin properties include dedicated recreation areas. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, "There's a pool, hiking trails, a little river. So beautiful and peaceful here," reports one visitor. Another adds there are "lots of activities for everyone. Nice trails to hike and towns not far away if you need anything."
Cabin vs. tent cabin options: Consider comfort needs when selecting accommodations. "The tent cabins are super convenient," notes a Big Basin visitor, providing a middle-ground between traditional cabins and tent camping. These options typically cost 30-40% less than hard-sided cabins.
Noise considerations: Evaluate site location relative to facilities. One Samuel P. Taylor visitor advises, "Campsite 325 was right next to the bathroom, which was convenient but made things noisy around bed time and in the morning. Wouldn't recommend this site if you like to sleep in while camping."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Cabin locations often have uneven terrain affecting nearby RV sites. A visitor to Mount Madonna County Park reports, "Site 211 was listed as 30' trailer but that was definitely not the case as it was a weird triangle parking area. We made it work and enjoyed the park."
Weather preparation: RVers staying near cabins should prepare for coastal conditions. One camper recommends, "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers."
Free dump stations: Some properties offer complimentary waste disposal. "There is a very convenient FREE dump station just inside the entrance to the park that we used as we departed," notes a Mount Madonna visitor, saving the typical $10-15 fee charged elsewhere.
