143 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping near Tiburon spans from developed campgrounds to waterfront sites across the Marin Headlands and surrounding areas. Angel Island State Park, accessible only by ferry from Tiburon, offers ten tent campsites with panoramic views of San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz. The region includes additional campgrounds like Kirby Cove in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and Steep Ravine at Mount Tamalpais State Park, which provides both tent sites and rustic cabins. Most camping areas require advance reservations, with Angel Island and Kirby Cove being particularly difficult to secure due to limited availability and high demand.
Advance planning is essential for camping in this region, particularly for the most scenic waterfront sites. Reservations often open six months ahead and fill within minutes for popular locations like Kirby Cove's five coveted sites. "There's only 10 sites on Angel Island, so we got a permit by going during the week," notes one camper who found weekday reservations more accessible. Weather conditions can be challenging year-round, with persistent fog, wind, and cool temperatures even during summer months. Most campgrounds in the area have limited or no drinking water available, requiring visitors to pack in their supplies. Cell coverage varies considerably between locations, with better service at elevated sites overlooking the bay.
Several visitors mentioned the unique experience of camping within view of San Francisco while feeling remarkably isolated. Kirby Cove receives consistently high ratings for its spectacular Golden Gate Bridge views despite limited amenities. According to one visitor, "You're clearly very close to everything (i.e. San Francisco), while feeling like you are away from everything at the same time." Wildlife encounters are common, with raccoons frequently mentioned at Kirby Cove and Angel Island featuring deer and other native species. Noise from foghorns can be disruptive, particularly during foggy conditions, with multiple campers recommending earplugs. Sites on the eastern side of Angel Island generally receive better protection from wind, while Kirby Cove's sites further back in the canyon provide more shelter from coastal weather patterns.
"This campground is less than an hours drive from San Francisco. It is along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard which takes you through a bunch of very cute tiny towns."
"Beautiful trees and wonderful California charm. The campsites were decently located. Above the Mendocino coast the mornings are wet and Cold. Loved this place"
from $35 - $225 / night
Check Availability"The walk to the beach was 60 seconds and the ocean can be seen from the site. Cool ww2 structures. You get a code to open the gate uptop and drive down to park for your stay."
"If you plan to leave your cooler outside of the bear box make sure it has a lock or secure latch. 3- you get a gate code and parking pass to drive down, but have to walk your gear the last 500-1,000 ft"
from $40 - $75 / night
Check Availability"I decided to stay here, because it was the right location for my road trip, it was free, and I thought the view of the city would be excellent."
"Reasonably quiet on the side away from the road. Very safe, police patrols throughout the day/night. Good hiking areas nearby. Bathrooms and trash cans. Highly recommend as it is also completely free."
"1 to get to the entrance, and then another steep, curvy ride down to the campground."
"The entire Mount Tamalpais watershed is within 30 minutes drive from this location."
from $25 - $100 / night
Check Availability"Pantoll is a pretty campground located adjacent to the entrance to Mount Tamalpais. You can hike to, bike to, take the bus to, or even drive to this campground. "
"This is an ada compliant walkup campground situated near the top of Mount Tamalpais. Featuring 13 sites ranging from standard campground style to a few more secluded areas."
from $7 - $25 / night
Check Availability"30 mins away from the City. A bit pricy but that is to be expected in SF."
"Great location to the city and Muir woods. Good stores near by. Narrow sites. No room for awning. Close to gather. Sites are gravel and level. Nice area for pets with view."
from $99 - $115 / night
Check Availability"We also took the ferry from Tiburon so factor in cost of parking and ferry boat ride into the campground. Definitely stay on the Eastern side for less wind but bring plenty of stakes in case."
"To get to the island, you have to take a short ferry trip that leaves from Tiburon, CA. From there you will backpack with your gear until you reach the campground that you will be staying at."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"All three sites here are next to each other and have no seperation, but if you’re okay with that it’s a wonderful place to camp Site 3 is closest to the views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the trails connected"
"It has great hiking nearby and an incredible view of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city, and is a short drive into the city. you definitely want to reserve a space well in advance, especially during peak"
from $25 / night
Check Availability"There’s a dog park close by if you want to go get down to the sandy beaches within walking distance great hookups water pressure is a little high."
"If you want a great little place with quick easy access to San Francisco that has a great view of the ocean this place is great! And affordable!"
"The tent pads (a flat sandy area surrounded by wood beams) were fairly small - maybe 10' x 10'. Each site had a picnic table and a large metal food locker. "
"This campground is about a 0.75 mile hike from the Tennessee Valley trail head. Very limited number of sites, so you’ll definitely need a reservation. No fires."
from $25 - $75 / night
Check Availability
ScoutI was woken up by law enforcement and asked to leave on my second night staying here. They will issue a citation (luckily they took mine away and gave me a warning) this needs to be removed as a dispersed site.
GuideThere are many spot. It's a parking lot and the spots are very snug. The edge by the ocean lost a few.
Staff is kind, helpful and responsive. Area is clean and very peaceful. It's a bit pricey. Our standard spot was $150.
GuideLike most/all east bay parks, this is well appointed for the masses. It’s also surrounded by rolling hills and close to suburbia. For many, these are positives. As an east bay resident they are for me as well. Del Valle is a bit more removed than many east bay parks. From my location in Fremont, it’s a one hour drive. A pleasant drive for the most part. I camp to get away for a bit and almost always to mountain bike. As such, I seek parks that have trails. Del Valle has a map of many trails. They also appear on many of the mapping services used by mountain bikers. Review those and digest them if this is also your intention - these are east bay parka style trails. In other words, mostly steep and loose fire roads, with many “social trails” sprinkled between. If you are compelled to stay legit/legal trails, bring an ebike. Now on to the camping. I picked a spot as far removed from any booked spot on the map. I triple checked this up until the day before I arrived. I want solitude! When I arrived Thursday afternoon, I was surprised to see the sites just 3 spaces away, on both sides, occupied. This is a fairly compact area. And while I’m sure they’re lovely folks, this isn’t what I expected on a Thursday. Saturday? Sure. Anyway… be aware that these reservation services aren’t completely reliable in that regard. The bathrooms and showers are amazing! Clean, smell good, cared for. Noteworthy is the hot showers in the camp grounds are free and your one push of the button provides water for two minutes I'd guess. Very nice! The space, 135 for me, is okay. A couple trees for shade, a nice table and fire pit. It’s now dark and the noise is minimal - mostly from the group campsite just down the hill. I’ll update this with more details in the coming days since it’s a 4 day visit.
Update 1: it’s my first morning here. Using starlink as there is no cell signal to be found. What I noticed last night was that this park is directly below the flight path to the local airports. Every couple minutes last night, a plane would fly overhead. According to flight aware, they’re at about 10,000 feet. If this will ruin your getaway, you’ve been warned.
Update 2: On Friday night, the majority of the spots were filled. Many large groups of people with varying degrees of consideration, but to their credit almost all (except the barking German Shepard) were quiet by 10PM. It was a bit more crowded come Saturday morning. Some friends came to visit for a mountain bike ride, and we set off at about noon. I had been complimentary of the facilities and bragged that I'd be taking a nice shower after our ride. Unfortunately, upon our return, there was no hot water and no lighting in the showers. And, sadly, someone decided to remove the tags and hangers from their TJ Maxx haul and leave them all over the floor of two of the showers.
Verdict: I'd only come back here in the springtime when it's likely to be green and have some water in the arroyo and only during the week. The density and composition of the people here was akin to being at Costco on a Saturday, and I only did that once.
TravelerNothing like camping under the redwoods with sounds of streams nearby. Restrooms and facilities are clean and well maintained. Park Rangers are extremely nice and helpful.
GuideWe came in around 9pm. There's a board with names and site numbers on the office building. These are snug spots but we have enough room to put the slide out. It is a level gravel parking lot. There's not alot of places in San Fran to even day park. This is just fine. They do fill up fast. Called the next day to extend through Sat, they are booked solid.
Dog walk is through the gate at the back of the lot where abandoned railroad tracks are. There's a pond with some ducks and a walking path.
GuideLots of beautiful campsites by the beach. It’s in Bodega Bay so all of the beach is pretty protected. Many are in the harbor and there’s a place to launch your watercraft. Dogs are allowed yon the beach on leash. The campground was full but the beach wasn’t crowded at all.
The shower was coin operated. The dial didn’t change the temperature or volume of water at all. ☹️
GuideThere aren’t a lot of options for camping on the coast in California outside of busy campgrounds. But as those go, Doran Beach is ok. Try to get a site that backs up to the harbor for more privacy and an almost private beach to walk. But be aware there are lots of sounds going on all day and night, including people talking, sea birds squawking, sea lions barking, and a 24/7 foghorn (whether there’s fog or not). Sites are close together but pick wisely and you can get one that affords you a little more privacy.
TravelerThis is a fun place for you and the fam either to camp or for the day.
The tide comes in and out here as it’s a low level island and the approach to access sometimes will be under water from the tide. It is just like that, not poorly maintained, just one short section that can get 6inches deep and is not an issue for anybody.
I stayed in a tent camper fold-out. I hugged the hedge next to a teardrop. Everyone was nice and it was a relaxing stay. Can launch boat/kayak or do all the wind surfing type sports they talk about.
GuideHard to get reservations but worth it. Super close to beach. Some spots have trees with shade.
Camping spots near Tiburon, California cluster along the Marin Headlands where coastal fog regularly rolls in, creating temperature swings of 30°F between day and night even in summer months. The region sits at the convergence of several microclimates, with campgrounds on eastern slopes generally receiving better protection from coastal winds than western exposures. Campsite elevation ranges from sea level to 2,500 feet, affecting both views and overnight temperatures.
Hike to hot springs: During extremely low tides at Steep Ravine Campground, visitors can access natural hot springs along the beach. "I've seen deer in the seaside vernal pools, wild miniature ocean bunnies boxing in the morning sunshine, and a great white shark off the cliffs one fine day... This place is absolutely fabulous... and we didn't even get into the mermaid hot springs gracing the beaches during super low tides," notes one camper.
Explore immigration history: Angel Island offers camping combined with historical education. "The island itself is about a 5 mile hike from one end to the other with a very modest elevation gain so it's definitely worth doing. The island used to be intake for immigration and even had some military presence on the island back in the day. Lots of old buildings to explore," explains a visitor who stayed at the island's campground.
Visit coastal communities: Use Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground as a base for day trips to nearby towns. "The win on this campground is how close it is to Point Reyes National Seashore, San Rafael, Olema, Novato and Marshall. I would highly recommend Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding, Hog Island in Marshall (snag a picnic table and shuck your own oysters - definitely a highlight) and Cowgirl Creamery in Point Reyes Station."
Sunrise and sunset views: Kirby Cove Campground offers exceptional vantage points for Golden Gate Bridge viewing. "Kirby is a unique and unforgettable experience. Relax and let the Insta-gold views fill up your like quota, but expect to be joined by plenty of day trippers making the long hike down to the beach. Expect it to empty back out again around dinner time."
Urban wilderness access: Some campers appreciate the unique proximity to city amenities while feeling secluded. "Nearly impossible to reserve, the five sites at Kirby Cove are large and spread out, giving the feeling of true isolation while being a two minute walk from the beach under the Golden Gate Bridge. It's spectacular. You can Uber there if you have to. If you forget the salad at home, just go get it. SF and Marin are less than 15 mins away."
Watching shipping traffic: Angel Island State Park provides panoramic views of maritime activity. "Beautiful open space with huge views of the Bay Area. Woods, water and vistas. Views are the same from all cabins so you're not losing any benefits. Bring binoculars and your good camera. Bolinas, Stinson, The Farallon Islands, fishing boats, the night sky, raptors, seals, all manner of water fowl…that's why you're here."
Weather preparation: Multiple layers are essential regardless of season. "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers. 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."
Campground etiquette issues: Some campgrounds near Tiburon attract first-time campers unfamiliar with outdoor protocols. At Samuel P. Taylor State Park, one camper reports: "For families who want a quick trip over Golden Gate Bridge to introduce their children (or adults!) to the great outdoors, their first camp, nowhere is more convenient and instantly gratifying. However! You are going to probably experience some of the most ridiculous first-time campers with no sense of camping etiquette you have ever met in your life."
Noise factors: Environmental sounds impact sleep quality at coastal sites. "Beware of the raccoons, they are quite aggressive and persistent in wanting to get to your food. The foghorns can be quite loud at night so consider earplugs. Be warned, at night the fog horns on the bridge are very loud and very close, so bring something to cancel the noise."
Beginner-friendly options: For families new to camping, select sites with developed infrastructure. "For families who want a quick trip over Golden Gate Bridge to introduce their children (or adults!) to the great outdoors, their first camp, nowhere is more convenient and instantly gratifying."
Group site advantages: Alice Eastwood Group Camp accommodates larger family gatherings with specialized facilities. "This campground is magic! It's also expensive so make sure you have a big group chipping in. There is a kitchen area with a huge grill and a large canopy covering a dining area. The site has a fully covered dining area, fully plumbed sinks and bathrooms, and a plethora of hiking options."
Wildlife education: Many campsites offer children opportunities to observe local fauna. "Wildlife encounters are common. Raccoons, Chipmunks and Blue Jays were NOT SHY but also not a harrowing issue. The wildlife is off the hook. I've seen deer in the seaside vernal pools, wild miniature ocean bunnies boxing in the morning sunshine."
Ferry access advantage: Marin RV Park provides convenient access to San Francisco without driving an RV into the city. "This RV Park gets 5 stars purely for it's location. Drive in, park and then walk to all the sights you want to see in San Francisco. A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown San Francisco. The location is really convenient given that the ferry and bus stops are within walking distance (10 min walk or 5 min drive)."
Space limitations: RV sites near Tiburon have tight spacing. "Narrow sites. No room for awning. Close to gather. Sites are gravel and level. Like mentioned in the other reviews, the spots are narrow. The ground is made up of small rocks, but is perfectly level. There are no picnic tables and/or fire pits available."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some RV camping options. "It's a parking lot with full hookups strategically located to public transit direct to San Francisco. It's surprisingly quiet for being in a semi industrial area right next to the 101, but there is road noise of course."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Tiburon, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Tiburon, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 143 campgrounds and RV parks near Tiburon, CA and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Tiburon, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Tiburon, CA is Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 57 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Tiburon, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Tiburon, CA.
What parks are near Tiburon, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 parks near Tiburon, CA that allow camping, notably Golden Gate National Recreation Area and Point Reyes National Seashore.
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