Cabins near Golden Gate National Recreation Area provide rustic lodging within a region that receives consistent coastal fog throughout summer months, producing average July temperatures of 60-65°F. Winter storms typically occur between November and April, with most rainfall concentrated in these months. During peak summer weekends, cabin reservations often require booking 3-6 months in advance.
What to do
Morning hikes from campgrounds: Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground offers hiking along a paved path that follows the creek. "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," explains Joseph F., who notes the trail system includes "informational signs all over the place providing historical or ecological information."
Horseback riding excursions: Located just minutes from Olema Campground, Five Brooks Ranch offers guided trail rides. "I would highly recommend Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding," suggests Kathleen C., who visited while staying at Samuel P. Taylor. The ranch provides rides suitable for various experience levels with trails that explore the surrounding hills.
Seasonal kayaking: At Del Valle Campground, visitors can rent kayaks during warmer months. "Great lake for paddling as the speed limit for boats is low. Good fishing too," notes Tom G. The lake provides calmer waters than the coastline, making it suitable for beginners and families.
What campers like
Wood stove warmth: The cabins at Steep Ravine Campground include wood-burning stoves that provide both heat and ambiance. "The wood burning stove keeps the cabin warm. Smoke detectors work too!" reports alana C., highlighting the practical heating solution for coastal evenings when temperatures drop.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning wildlife sightings are common at many campgrounds in the area. "I saw deer and turkeys roaming the campground," reports Uriel S. about Del Valle Campground. Similarly at Samuel P. Taylor, Joseph F. notes "Lots of poison oak in the unmaintained areas and off the trails, so be aware," indicating the natural, undeveloped setting that supports diverse wildlife.
Proximity to culinary destinations: Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park provides easy access to coastal dining. "If you wanna rv and craving crab, chowder, and oysters this is the spot for you, full hook up, fire pit, and picnic table walking distance to a restaurant and shops," writes Filipino Jack T., emphasizing the convenience of fresh seafood options within walking distance.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Most cabin facilities require advance planning. "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," says alana C. about Steep Ravine Campground, reflecting the competitive reservation process.
Temperature fluctuations: Coastal cabin locations experience significant day-to-night temperature swings. Kathleen C. advises about camping near Samuel P. Taylor: "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers."
Noise considerations: Road noise can impact some cabin sites. Tai W. notes about Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, "if you're tent camping, the vehicle noise from the nearby Sir Francis Drake Blvd can be distracting if you are a light sleeper."
Seasonal restrictions: Access to natural features varies throughout the year. Joseph F. points out, "Access to the creek is seasonally restricted for spawning, and I believe that goes from spring to about mid June or July."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites strategically: At Samuel P. Taylor, site selection significantly impacts experience. "Because of the holiday and the proximity to Oakland/San Fran, the campground was in FULL EFFECT with a gang of variant families camp site hopping," reports Kathleen C., who recommends: "Had I chosen the site to my left, or a few more down the road, I would have barely noticed them at all - sites 47-44 had no one across the way, more private, set back."
Plan for playground access: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers extensive kid-friendly facilities. "This KOA also offered all sorts of amenities for families including a small petting zoo, a pool, playground areas, and more," explains Kelsey L. Another visitor, Adrian G., summarizes it as a "Clean simple and fun place with loads to do for the family. Swim, play and explore all the north bay has to offer."
Pack entertainment for foggy days: Coastal fog can limit outdoor activities. "It can get warm in the summer, but the cool moist ocean fog comes in and blankets the area in the evenings, which can really cool it down," explains Joseph F. about Samuel P. Taylor, suggesting families should prepare indoor cabin activities for foggy periods.
Consider cabin accessibility: When selecting cabins, factor in distance from parking. Adam from Steep Ravine Campground advises, "If you're intent on having the cabin experience...I'd recommend choosing a cabin close to the parking lot. They're actually more private and you can use the wheelbarrows to move your stuff from car to cabin. The cabins further away from the parking lot are further down the hill; wheelbarrows are not an option."
Tips from RVers
Limited cabin RV access: Many cabin areas have restrictions for larger vehicles. Tai W. notes about Samuel P. Taylor, "It's a bit too tight for large trailer or RV camping (unless you are an expert at maneuvering through tight spaces)."
Full-hookup alternatives: For those requiring more amenities, Porto Bodega provides waterfront options. "We had a dry spot right on the marina side so the view was nice," notes Jennifer J., though she cautions the campground is "slightly run down but still nice," with bathroom facilities that had "clean but the water pressure and the temperature fluctuations in the shower were just bad."
Early morning noise considerations: Fishing activities can create early morning disturbances at waterfront locations. Jennifer J. warns about Porto Bodega: "The fishermen docked in the marina start getting ready at about 4:30am! They are not quiet."
