Cabin camping near Big Bend, California offers a practical alternative to tent camping with access to coastal views and redwood surroundings. Most cabins in this region sit at elevations between 50 and 1,200 feet, with winter temperatures dropping to the 40s at night and summer days reaching the 70s. Reservations for these rustic accommodations typically open 6 months in advance with varying availability across campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking from your cabin door: Steep Ravine Campground offers cabin campers immediate access to hiking trails. "The hiking trails that join from the coast all the way to Mill Valley and central Marin are walking distance from this site. Be warned though, the hiking is steep, really good hiking but bring good shoes and be sure that you are physically ready for a hard workout!" reports a visitor to Steep Ravine Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cabin guests at Samuel P. Taylor State Park can observe local wildlife from their accommodations. "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. They have informational signs all over the place providing historical or ecological information," notes one camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
Local wine exploration: Ritchey Creek Campground cabins provide an affordable base for wine country exploration. "It's so nice to be right in the Napa Valley. We found a great trail close by at Lake Hennessey. If you're a wine drinker, during non-COVID times you can catch a wine bus from here!" explains a visitor to Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.
What campers like
Oceanfront locations: The coastal cabin sites offer unparalleled water views. "A safe, beautiful, affordable property to spend outdoors time on. Convenient sites with complete hookup and also restroom/showers handy. The 800+ acres of hills, woods and fields offers archery, disc golf, hiking, horseback riding and more," writes a visitor to Skyline Wilderness Park.
Well-maintained facilities: Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park provides clean cabins with convenient amenities. "We have a Ford E350 van with a bed conversion in back. No need for hookups but they are available. You can see the Milky Way at night while listening to the soft foghorn and every now and then a soft bark of a seal," explains a camper at Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park.
Proximity to attractions: Cabins at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA are strategically located near regional points of interest. "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. We also appreciated that it was close to city amenities like Lagunitas Brewing Co," reports a visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter cabin camping requires preparation for temperature fluctuations. "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers," advises a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Wildlife precautions: Many cabin locations have active wildlife that requires proper food storage. "Be careful of the poison oak, it is prevalent there as it is so anywhere in Northern California," warns a visitor to Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.
Noise levels vary: Some cabin areas experience noise from nearby activities or roads. "If you're tent camping, the vehicle noise from the nearby Sir Francis Drake Blvd can be distracting if you are a light sleeper (and you are tent camping)," explains a camper at Olema Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Cabins with nearby children's activities make family trips easier. "Clean simple and fun place with loads to do for the family. Swim, play and explore all the north bay has to offer," recommends a visitor to San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
Cabin spacing considerations: Selecting the right cabin location impacts family comfort. "I would highly recommend site 44. Just trust me on this. Most of the sites are pretty decent, but 44 was the best," suggests a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Seasonal programs: Some parks offer family-oriented activities during peak seasons. "They have an insane amount of kids activities! Face painting, s'mores campfire, hay ride, parks, karaoke - just to name a few! Easily one of our fav campgrounds!" notes a visitor to Casini Ranch Family Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing varies: Many cabin areas share space with RV sites of various dimensions. "Level pad for camp trailers. Fire pits updated and bbq on every site. Site 49 is a nice site," explains a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Utility access: RV cabin campers should verify hookup availability before booking. "Nice place, full hook up W,E,S,C you get a fire pit and a picnic table, 3 minute walk to restaurant and deli, public restroom is clean every morning and garbage gets emptied," reports a visitor to Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park.
Space limitations: RV cabins may have different spacing than tent cabin areas. "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa," notes a visitor to Skyline Wilderness Park.
