Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground sits nestled in a redwood forest just 30 minutes north of Tiburon, California, at an elevation of around 100 feet above sea level. The campsites rest under a mature redwood canopy where mornings often begin with wet, cool conditions from coastal fog that rolls in overnight. Campers frequently note temperature swings of 20-30 degrees between daytime and nighttime, requiring layers regardless of season.
What to do
Hiking from camp: At Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, trails connect directly to numerous hiking options, including a paved path along Lagunitas Creek. "There are all kinds of trails available, as well as a paved path that runs for at least a mile or so along the creek, that used to be the old railroad line through that area," notes Joseph F.
Horseback riding: Five Brooks Ranch in Olema offers trail rides through the coastal landscape near Olema Campground. A visitor recommends: "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."
Tidepooling: The beach at Coast Campground offers extensive tidepools just minutes from camp. "The beach offers tidepools close by as well as a great place for beach fire (permit needed)," shares one camper who frequently visits the area.
What campers like
Glamping options with minimal setup: Several sites near Tiburon offer cabin accommodations for those seeking luxury camping without extensive equipment. At San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA, "We stopped here on our way to the Redwoods and it was a beautiful stop. This campground is clearly a getaway from the more congested parts of the area. Cute petting zoo and a pool that was open during COVID!"
Proximity to urban amenities: Glamping close to Tiburon, California provides easy access to restaurants and food destinations. The manager at Skyline Wilderness Park notes: "You pull into a gravel lot and you're about 12 feet from your neighbors. The plus is friendly staff, amazing views, easy hookups, FREE showers and absolutely beautiful hikes that start right outside your door."
Wilderness experience with conveniences: Some sites manage to provide both isolation and comfort. "Coast camp is a favorite get away. In the Point Reyes National Seashore it is in a valley that is minutes from the beach... Always expect fog. Expect cold and damp at night," warns a frequent visitor to Coast Campground.
What you should know
Weather variability: Coastal fog patterns significantly impact temperature and visibility around Tiburon. At Bicentennial Campground, "During the day it actually got pretty hot at our campsite (#1), lots of exposure probably around low 70s. At night it did get chilly, 38-39 degrees F, nothing a good sleeping bag couldn't fix."
Reservation timing: Most sites within 30 minutes of Tiburon require reservations months in advance. For Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground, "The hike and bike area is next to the RV hookup sites, and it can get a good bit of foot traffic. Restrooms/showers were dirty, but that seems to be from the day visitors to the beach."
Wildlife awareness: Encounters with local wildlife are common and require proper food storage. "Raccoons, Chipmunks and Blue Jays were NOT SHY but also not a harrowing issue," reports one camper from Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
Cell service variations: Connectivity varies significantly by campground location. One remote worker at Skyline Wilderness Park shared: "My fiancée and I both work remotely using hotspots on Verizon, and found no trouble at all. Data speeds wavered between 10-25 mbps depending on where we were on the property, but we could video conference and stream with no issues."
Tips for camping with families
Campground selection for kids: Some sites cater specifically to families with play areas and activities. "Playgrounds, swimming pool, lots of space to run and scream. We stay when visiting the area and endure the screaming kids. The kids do have fun, I give them that," notes a visitor at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
West Marin introduction: Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground provides an accessible first camping experience. "Everything about the campground is GREAT. The location is CLASSIC. West Marin is BEAUTIFUL. And 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."
Child-friendly campsites: Request specific sites that offer more space for children to play. At Olema Campground, "Olema is our go to spot. Every year with and without grandkids. Clean and friendly staff. The store has the necessities. The kids love the playground and try their hand at shuffleboard. Close to multiple beaches."
Educational elements: Many glamping sites near Tiburon feature environmental and historical interpretation. Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers "informational signs all over the place providing historical or ecological information."
Tips from RVers
Tight access roads: Many campgrounds near Tiburon have narrow approach roads requiring careful navigation. "It's a bit too tight for large trailer or RV camping (unless you are an expert at maneuvering through tight spaces)," warns a visitor about Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
RV site selection: Choose sites carefully based on size and hookup locations. An RVer at Olema Campground noted: "Hookups are pretty fast away and needed my sewer extension. There are full time residents along with short term. If you have slide outs, careful to not hit your neighbor!"
Reservation options: RV sites at popular glamping locations near Tiburon can be reserved through specific systems. At Olema Campground, "We were lucky enough to score one of these cabins twice by checking in every so often to see if someone cancelled a reservation."
