Mount Tamalpais State Park and the Marin Headlands offer multiple tent camping options within a 30-minute drive from Corte Madera, California. This coastal region sits at elevations ranging from sea level to 2,500 feet, creating diverse microclimates throughout the year. Winter tent camping near Corte Madera often means dealing with temperatures that can drop into the 40s F at night, particularly at higher elevation sites.
What to do
Beach exploration: 3-mile hike from Wildcat Campground: Follow the coastal trail for a beach walk to Alamere Falls. "The 6 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 one camper.
Island getaway: Ferry access to Sunrise Campground: Take the ferry from Tiburon to Angel Island for tent camping with city views. "Load your backpack, get on a ferry in Tiburon and head to Angel Island. Campsites are walk in throughout the island. Remember there will be fog and there will be wind," advises a regular visitor.
Trail connections: Access to extensive network from Pantoll Campground: From here, hikers can reach Mount Tam summit, Stinson Beach, and Muir Woods. "I can't think of a better place to camp on or near Mt. Tamalpais than Pantoll in terms of the access to trails and the various parks in the area," states one experienced camper.
What campers like
Scenic city views: Spot from Bicentennial Campground: This three-site campground offers views of the Golden Gate Bridge. "Gorgeous sunset and sunrise from camp or even better up the closest hill which is a 6 minute walk tops," remarks one visitor who appreciated the vantage point.
Private spaces: Higher sites at Steep Ravine: Sites situated farther from the main parking area offer more seclusion. "The cabins are well worth the cost. There is a separate bedroom, you could sleep 2 couples on beds easily with extra floor space and a small individual bunk for larger families," shares one camper about the structures available.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear nights at Glen Campground: The distance from urban light pollution creates good viewing conditions. "We saw lots of wildlife and the stargazing was first-rate, even though you could see the distant glow of civilization in the night sky," notes one backpacker who stayed overnight.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Limited availability: Many campgrounds fill months in advance, particularly on weekends. "There are only 10 sites on Angel Island, so we got a permit by going during the week (24 hour trip out the front door and back) Tuesday-Wednesday," explains one resourceful camper.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal bans: Most tent sites prohibit wood fires during dry periods (summer through fall). "Bring a sturdy tent and warm clothing. Can't beat the view!" advises a visitor to Steep Ravine who experienced the common coastal conditions.
Wind exposure: Coastal conditions at Haypress Campground: Bring extra stakes for tent security in open sites. "Meadow sites against a row of trees. There is very little privacy between sites but the couple times I have been here it was not full. It can get windy - there is some shelter under the trees," notes one regular visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Group facilities: Reserve early for gatherings: Some locations offer designated group camping areas with additional amenities. "This campground is magic! It's also expensive so make sure you have a big group chipping in. There are two group spots. Group A holds 50 people. There is a kitchen area with a huge grill and a large canopy covering a dining area," shares an organizer who used the Alice Eastwood Group Camp.
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Short hike-in options: Several sites require only brief walks from parking areas. "A 5 mile hike from the Bear Valley Trailhead leading to a small campground with 12 sites. Potable water and vault toilets are available, with each site also having a picnic table, charcoal barbecues and bear boxes," explains a visitor to Glen Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk activity: Keep food secured in provided storage lockers to avoid attracting raccoons and mice. "There are owls perched in eucalyptus trees next to the campsite, and coyotes. Came across one on the way back from a sunset hike to the beach," recounts a Haypress Campground visitor.
Tips for RVers
Parking limitations: Size restrictions: Most tent camping sites near Corte Madera do not accommodate large vehicles. "RV, pop-up and camper-truck camping is not allowed in the Presidio. No hook-ups available," states the Rob Hill Campground information.
Overnight alternatives: Nearby options: RVers should consider Samuel P. Taylor State Park or private campgrounds farther north in Sonoma County. "The two lighthouses are splendid excursions, Samuel P Taylor Park is a must for easy fun camping and some good small river access," recommends a Point Reyes visitor.
Day-use access: Trailhead parking: Some parking lots near tent camping areas can accommodate smaller RVs for day hiking. "You can hike to, bike to, take the bus to, or even drive to this campground. If you choose to drive, just know that it can be impossible to find a place to park on busy weekends," warns a Pantoll Campground reviewer.
