Camping in Novato offers diverse terrain ranging from coastal bluffs to redwood groves at elevations from sea level to 1,500 feet. Winter temperatures typically stay between 40-60°F while summer ranges from 55-85°F, with marine fog creating cool mornings even during warm spells. Most campsites in the area sit on compacted soil or gravel pads requiring sturdy tent stakes.
What to do
Horseback riding in Olema: Five Brooks Ranch provides trail rides through Point Reyes National Seashore with options for beginners and experienced riders. "I would highly recommend Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding," notes a visitor at Olema Campground.
Night sky viewing: The Robert Ferguson Observatory at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground hosts regular astronomy events. "We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" reports one camper. The observatory offers powerful telescopes and knowledgeable guides.
Frisbee golf in Napa: Skyline Wilderness Park features an 18-hole disc golf course with terrain challenges. A reviewer mentions, "The 800+ acres of hills, woods and fields offers archery, disc golf, hiking, horseback riding and more. Very friendly, helpful staff."
What campers like
Rustic cabins with ocean views: The cabins at Steep Ravine Campground offer a unique glamping close to Novato, California. "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. No electricity but the wood burning stove provides some light," writes one visitor.
Variety of hiking trails: The Cross Marin Trail at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground provides easy access for all skill levels. "There is also 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 a camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning wildlife sightings are common throughout the region. A visitor to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park comments, "We had a gorgeous grey fox visit our camp! We had a ton of shade and enough sun to warm up... we saw a rabbit, turkeys, lizards, deer, & quails!"
What you should know
Weather fluctuations: Coastal camping requires layering even in summer. "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. Morning fog often burns off by midday but returns by evening.
Reservation timing requirements: Most popular sites book months in advance. At Coast Campground, a visitor notes, "We've been lucky enough to score one of these cabins twice by checking in every so often to see if someone cancelled a reservation."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans affect many campgrounds during dry months. Check current fire status before packing cooking equipment. Most sites provide alternatives: "Each campsite is equipped with a fire pit (you must bring your own firewood) and a fixed charcoal barbecue grill."
Wildlife precautions: Raccoons and other wildlife can be persistent. "Raccoons, Chipmunks and Blue Jays were NOT SHY but also not a harrowing issue," reports a Samuel P. Taylor camper. Food storage lockers are available at most sites.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers extensive family facilities. "Great things for kids to be entertained by and enjoy for sure... This KOA also offered all sorts of amenities for families including a small petting zoo, a pool, playground areas, and more," writes a visitor.
Beginner camping options: Some parks offer rental equipment for new campers. "Staff was immediately responsive when an issue came up involving a camper in a wrong site. I was impressed that they wet down the roads a couple of times per day to keep the dust down," notes an Olema Campground visitor.
Educational programs: Several parks provide ranger-led activities. "Ask about the free quest hike. They send you on an adventure hike and there is treasure at the end of it," suggests a Sugarloaf Ridge visitor. These programs typically run on weekends during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Larger RVs face limitations at some campgrounds. "Level pad for camp trailers. Fire pits updated and bbq on every site. Site 49 is a nice site," recommends a visitor at Samuel P. Taylor regarding suitable spots for medium-sized trailers.
Hookup availability: Many glamping sites near Novato, California offer partial hookups. "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa," notes a Skyline Wilderness Park camper about their services.
Dump station locations: Not all parks provide sanitary dumps. "The host says they will come around in the morning and empty our tanks! No need to hook up our sewer hose!" shares a San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA visitor, highlighting their special service.
