Mount Tamalpais State Park and Point Reyes National Seashore offer numerous tent camping options near Bolinas, California, situated along the rugged California coast approximately 30 miles north of San Francisco. The region's Mediterranean climate creates distinct seasonal conditions with summer fog common from May through August and clearer, though potentially rainy days from November through April. During winter months, temperatures at higher elevation campsites like those on Mount Tam can drop to the high 30s overnight, requiring proper cold-weather gear.
What to do
Beach fires at Coast Camp: With proper permits obtained at the Bear Valley Visitor Center, campers can enjoy evening fires on the beach near Coast Campground. "The beach was sandy and beautiful, not that many people around," reports a camper who enjoyed a February stay when temperatures dropped to "38-39 degrees F, nothing a good sleeping bag couldn't fix."
Stargazing from ridge sites: Mount Tam sites offer exceptional night sky viewing opportunities away from city light pollution. "The night had beautiful stars with no artificial light. No road noise," notes a camper at Haypress Campground, where clear nights reveal stunning celestial displays.
Off-season waterfall hunting: Winter rains create seasonal waterfalls throughout the region. "We visited during a rain storm so there were waterfalls everywhere," mentions a camper who stayed at Alice Eastwood Group Camp, highlighting how changing seasons transform the hiking experience.
What campers like
Tent sites with ocean proximity: Wildcat Campground provides quick beach access with relative seclusion. "Just yards away from the beach. The tall grass gave some privacy between neighboring campsites," notes a recent visitor who appreciated having "water spigot on-site. Vault toilets with paper towel, no trash."
Protection from coastal winds: Many campsites are strategically positioned to buffer the often strong coastal breezes. "Near the beach but protected from the coastal wind," reports a visitor to Coast Camp, where sites are nestled in valleys that block the strongest gusts while maintaining ocean proximity.
Historic cooking facilities: Several Bootjack Campground sites feature distinctive stone grills with character. "Many of the sites feature beautiful historic stone grills. Some of the sites are two levels," explains a camper who found the tent-only walk-in sites peaceful despite their proximity to hiking trails.
What you should know
Fog horn noise: Campers at coastal sites should prepare for maritime sound features. At Bicentennial Campground, "the fog horns on the bridge are very loud and very close, so bring something to cancel the noise," advises a visitor who otherwise enjoyed the incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Mouse precautions: Small rodents are common at several campgrounds. "There were several brand new mouse traps provided at the entrance to my cabin. You'll need them," warns a Steep Ravine visitor who caught three mice in just two days.
Seasonal closure risks: Some campgrounds close during fire season or hazardous weather. "We wanted to stop here based on previous reviews but it was unfortunately closed," noted a visitor attempting to access Glen Campground during a seasonal closure period.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner backpacking options: Glen Campground offers an excellent introduction to backpacking for families. "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," reports a family who appreciated having toilets and potable water available.
Nature exploration opportunities: Kids enjoy discovering coastal wildlife in tidepools and along trails. "The wildlife is off the hook..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," describes an enthusiastic visitor to Steep Ravine.
First-come sites strategy: For families needing flexibility, try Pantoll Campground which doesn't require reservations. "This is the only first come first campground around as far as I know. Sites are spacious and include grills and fire pits," notes a happy family camper who appreciated the easy access.
Tips from RVers
No direct RV camping options: Traditional RV camping is extremely limited near Bolinas. Most sites are walk-in tent camping only, requiring equipment to be carried from parking areas. "You have to park your car in the parking lot, and then carry your stuff uphill to your site," explains a Bootjack Campground visitor.
Parking constraints: Even tent campers with vehicles face limitations. "If you choose to drive, just know that it can be impossible to find a place to park on busy weekends (you'll need to drop your stuff off, find a place to park along the road, then come back to park in the evening when the parking lot clears)," advises a camper at Pantoll explaining the challenging parking situation on peak weekends.
