Tom T.
Scout
ScoutDumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay
Open sky great starlink users.
Very quiet campground at night. See stars clearly. Use the fire pit after 730pm when the wind has calmed down.
Camping near Bolinas, CA
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The coastal region of Bolinas, California features a mix of camping options within Marin County and the surrounding areas. Campers can choose between established sites at Samuel P. Taylor State Park with tent, RV, and cabin accommodations or explore more remote locations at Point Reyes National Seashore where several walk-in and hike-in campgrounds provide ocean views and wilderness experiences. Mount Tamalpais State Park's Steep Ravine Campground offers both tent sites and rustic cabins perched on bluffs overlooking the Pacific, while Olema Campground provides more developed facilities with electric and water hookups for RVs.
Reservations are essential for most campgrounds in the Bolinas area, with many sites booking up to six months in advance. The terrain varies from coastal bluffs to forested valleys, requiring different preparation depending on location. A visitor commented that "the hike to Wildcat Campground is stunning, changing drastically over six miles ranging from lush forests to grassy fields to breathtaking coastal views." Weather conditions can change rapidly along the coast, with fog, wind, and temperature fluctuations common throughout the year. Summer typically offers milder conditions, though fog is prevalent. Most campgrounds provide vault toilets and potable water, but amenities vary significantly between primitive sites and more developed facilities.
Point Reyes National Seashore campgrounds consistently receive high ratings for their beach access and solitude. Campers note the blend of coastal proximity and hiking opportunities as key attractions, with Alamere Falls being a popular destination from Wildcat Campground. Several visitors mentioned that advance planning is crucial for securing campsites, particularly at Steep Ravine, described as "the number one most difficult to reserve spot in all of California." The cabin camping experience at Steep Ravine provides a unique overnight option with oceanfront views just 30 minutes north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Primitive campgrounds typically require hiking in with gear, while established campgrounds like Samuel P. Taylor and Olema offer more amenities and easier access but less seclusion. Wildlife sightings are common throughout the region, with raccoons frequently mentioned in campground reviews.
Best Campgrounds near Bolinas (111)
1. Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground
"Beautiful trees and wonderful California charm. The campsites were decently located. Above the Mendocino coast the mornings are wet and Cold. Loved this place"
"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."
from $35 - $225 / night
Check Availability2. Olema Campground
"Nice place to eat within walking distance but make reservations on a weekend. WiFi. Showers. Spots are close together but the drive here is amazing. Openings on a Saturday night."
"The campsite is so clean you could walk around barefoot. the scenery is so beautiful with sheep, cattle, mountains and a stream surrounding/on the property. Would definitely recommend"
3. Steep Ravine Campground — Mount Tamalpais State Park
"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 Availability4. Wildcat Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore
"Really great site right next to the water and beach. The hike in is pretty easy and beautiful. We had fun making a fire on the beach at night. It's pretty windy, so be prepared."
"I used to live in the area and wish I had spent more time camping in and around the Point Reyes National Seashore."
5. Pantoll Campground — Mount Tamalpais State Park
"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 Availability6. Sky Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore
"Point Reyes in California has to be my all time favorite camping site. There are miles and miles of beaches surrounded by dunes, hills, and cliffs."
"Hike in (and around!) this gorgeous area. We chose to stay two nights and had a great time exploring the surrounding hiking trails - a personal favourite was Alamere Falls."
7. Glen Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore
"California, Washington and Oregon have lovely coast but this location is truly unique!"
"Tomales Bay is a boat in only campground on Indian Beach a unique experience if you have access to a boat. There are plenty of drive or walk in sites if you don't have a boat."
from $30 / night
Check Availability8. Marin RV Park
"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 Availability9. Kirby Cove Campground — Golden Gate National Recreation Area
"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 Availability10. H. Dana Bower Rest Area Northbound
"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."
Drive Time
- 49 min from San Francisco, CA
- 1 hr 5 min from Vallejo, CA
- 1 hr 12 min from Santa Rosa, CA
- 1 hr 16 min from Napa, CA
Recent Camping Photos near Bolinas, CA
190 Photos of 111 Bolinas Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Steep Ravine Campground — Mount Tamalpais State ParkJ
Wildcat Campground — Point Reyes National SeashoreM
Pantoll Campground — Mount Tamalpais State ParkS
Bootjack Campground — Mount Tamalpais State Park
Glen Campground — Point Reyes National SeashoreL
Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground
Alice Eastwood Group Camp — Mount Tamalpais State Park
Olema Campground
Haypress Campground — Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Sky Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore
Coast Campground — Point Reyes National SeashoreC
Hawk Campground — Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Recent Reviews near Bolinas, CA
846 Reviews of 111 Bolinas Campgrounds
KrystleScoutMineral Springs Trailhead
Overnight stays not allowed
I 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.
Dawn S.
GuideSan Francisco RV Resort
Great for visiting the City
There 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.
- Dawn S.Guide
Marin RV Park
Great to see the City
We 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.
- CColeen B.Guide
Doran Regional Park
Beach and Water Sports!
Lots 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. ☹️
- LLGuide
Doran Regional Park
If you want to camp on the coast in California …
There 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.
JoshcfiGuideDoran Regional Park
Close to nice beach
Hard to get reservations but worth it. Super close to beach. Some spots have trees with shade.
- EEdgar V.
TravelerDoran Regional Park
Cool spot but low privacy and constant horn
I stayed here for one night and overall had a good experience. The location is beautiful and very convenient, with the beach right across the road and the water nearby. It was calm, scenic, and there were lots of birds around. The bathrooms and showers were clean, and the shower had warm water.
The sites are very close together, though, so there is essentially no privacy between campsites. The shower was also a little expensive at around $2 for only a few minutes of water.
The biggest issue for me was the foghorn. I actually timed it, and it went off roughly every 10 seconds, apparently 24/7. It was extremely loud and continued day and night, whether there was fog or not. Some people may find it soothing, but I found it impossible to ignore, especially at night. Honestly, this is the main reason I wouldn't stay here again.
Overall, it's a nice campground in a great location, but the lack of privacy and especially the constant foghorn are significant drawbacks.
- GGabriel A.Traveler
Camp Russian River
Riverfront on the Russian River
Great campground on the Russian River. Big grassy area for single or group camping. Friendly staff. Walking distance to downtown Guerneville.
Guide to Bolinas
Bolinas camping sits on the edge of the Point Reyes Peninsula, 25 miles north of San Francisco at an elevation of 36 feet. The area experiences frequent coastal fog, especially during summer mornings when temperatures typically range from 45-65°F. Campsites near Bolinas, California require advance planning as overnight facilities remain limited and demand peaks from May through September.
What to do
Beach exploration: 2-mile hike from Wildcat Campground to Alamere Falls offers unique tidepool access. "The six mile hike to reach the campground is stunning. The hike changes drastically over the course of the six miles ranging from lush forests to grassy fields to breathtaking coastal views," notes Michaela C. at Wildcat.
Wildlife viewing: Visit Point Reyes headlands for elephant seal watching from December through March. "Riding through the country on this one was half the fun. Lots of rolling hills, herds of cattle, and a really fun windy drive. The seashore was awesome and we saw lots of elephant seals having a noisy morning," reports Cierra A. from Sky Campground.
Mountain biking: Access trails from Samuel P. Taylor State Park with routes connecting to neighboring open space preserves. "The win on this campground is how close it is to Point Reyes National Seashore, San Rafael, Olema, Novato and Marshall," explains Kathleen C. A 4-mile paved path runs along the creek for easier riding.
What campers like
Morning mist views: Campsites at Steep Ravine Campground provide distinctive oceanfront perspectives. "The entire Mount Tamalpais watershed is within 30 minutes drive from this location. The hiking trails that join from the coast all the way to Mill Valley and central Marin are walking distance from this site," states Patrick O.
Relative seclusion: Glen Camp offers quiet forest sites despite moderate proximity to trailheads. "The campground is quiet, 12 sites arranged in the trees around a small bare field with toilets and a water faucet. Most individual sites are well-screened by shrubs and trees," shares John B. who appreciates the stargazing opportunities.
Coastal proximity: Coast Campground provides immediate beach access. "We went for two nights on 02/28. Got a permit for a beach fire but couldn't find enough drift wood to make it last. Wonderful campsite though, can't beat our view and sounds of the ocean," notes Char A., highlighting the peaceful experience.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Several campgrounds offer basic amenities with varying seasonal restrictions. "When we visited, there was a notice that tap water had to be filtered. Most individual sites are well-screened by shrubs and trees. There are some nettles and poison oak," cautions John B. about Glen Camp.
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons present challenges at many campsites. "The raccoons are vicious and fearless. Not aggressive. Just persistent. And fearless. They. Will. Not. Leave. You. Alone. From like 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm they will stalk your site looking for ANY unsecured food," warns Daniel D. from Kirby Cove Campground.
Microclimate awareness: Pantoll Campground experiences significant temperature shifts. "Currently no fires or stoves allowed so it's rough without any source of warmth. The wind chill is real at night!" advises Samantha T., who visited in October. Temperature drops of 20°F after sunset occur regularly.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Select introductory backpacking sites for first family adventures. "This was our first backpacking trip and we mostly wanted to test our gear. This was perfect for that. 5-mile hike in with some uphill in the last 1.5 miles that was challenging but not too hard," explains Emily A. about her Glen Camp experience.
Noise considerations: Research campground etiquette expectations before booking with children. "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," mentions Susie B. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Water access: Sites with reliable water sources simplify family camping logistics. "Inside the Point Reyes National seashore, this is a hike in only campground. But has pit toilets, potable water. Groups sites also available. Sites have picnic tables and bear/critter lockers for food," describes Jason R. about Coast Camp.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Olema Campground provides one of few RV-friendly facilities. "Very nice campsite, nice small town of Point Reyes but can drive to hwy 1 north to go eat oysters or seafood, very friendly staff and neighbors," explains Filipino Jack T. The campground provides full hookups with 30/50 amp service.
Advance planning: Make reservations early for the limited RV sites in the area. "All exposed, all flat. Easy access. Store has everything you need. Wood is 10 bucks a bundle. It's private owned so fire rings are always ok. If you don't want to cook there are 2 restaurants next door," notes Chris M. about Olema Campground.
Alternative access: Consider using larger RVs as base camps while exploring Bolinas by other means. "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," shares Outdoordude D.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the camping options near Bolinas for visitors?
What are the camping options near Bolinas for visitors?
Visitors to Bolinas have several nearby camping options. Pantoll Campground — Mount Tamalpais State Park offers a convenient location adjacent to Mount Tamalpais with first-come, first-served sites. It's accessible by hiking, biking, public transit, or car, though weekend parking can be challenging. For those seeking coastal camping, Wildcat Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore provides hike-in sites with beach access. Both campgrounds feature basic amenities including water and toilets, making them suitable for visitors looking to experience the natural beauty surrounding Bolinas.
Where can I find camping spots in Bolinas, CA?
Where can I find camping spots in Bolinas, CA?
While Bolinas itself has limited camping options, nearby Steep Ravine Campground — Mount Tamalpais State Park offers a stunning coastal experience just south of Bolinas. These cabins and campsites are extremely popular and require booking well in advance. Another excellent option is Coast Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore, which provides walk-in sites with beach access. Both locations offer beautiful coastal views and proximity to Bolinas, though availability is limited and reservations are essential, especially during peak seasons.
Is Point Olema a good location for camping near Bolinas?
Is Point Olema a good location for camping near Bolinas?
The area near Point Olema is an excellent location for camping close to Bolinas. Olema Campground provides convenient drive-in access with amenities including water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly sites. It's well-situated for exploring both Bolinas and the surrounding Point Reyes Peninsula. Another nearby option is Westside Regional Park, which serves as a great base camp for exploring the Sonoma Coast. Located by Bodega Bay yacht harbor, this dry camping facility is less crowded than some state parks in the area while still offering proximity to coastal attractions.
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