Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground sits among mature redwood trees in the rolling hills northwest of San Francisco, about 15 miles from the Golden Gate Bridge. The park's creekside camping areas combine the dense coastal forest experience with convenient access to both the headlands and urban areas. Temperatures can vary dramatically between microclimates, often dropping 15-20 degrees from daytime highs even during summer months when fog rolls in from the Pacific.
What to do
Hike the historic railroad path: At Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, a paved trail follows the old railroad line along 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. They have informational signs all over the place providing historical or ecological information," notes Joseph F.
Explore coastal defense batteries: The Marin Headlands contain multiple historic military installations worth exploring. "Battery Kirby is right there at the campground and interesting to explore. Active from 1898 to 1934 the battery in quite interesting to walk through, despite the vandals that have clearly spent a lot of time there," shares Michael I. about Kirby Cove Campground.
Kayak Tomales Bay: The waterways near Mount Tamalpais offer paddling opportunities. "The win on this campground is how close it is to Point Reyes National Seashore, San Rafael, Olema, Novato and Marshall. I would highly recommend Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding, Hog Island in Marshall (snag a picnic table and shuck your own oysters - definitely a highlight) and Cowgirl Creamery in Point Reyes Station," recommends Kathleen C.
What campers like
Unique urban-adjacent camping: Campers value the contrast between wilderness and city proximity. "Kirby Cove is a unique and unforgettable experience. Make sure you're on top of the reservation window on recreation.gov, because there are only 5 super popular spots," advises Gregory R. "Nearly impossible to reserve, the five sites at Kirby Cove are large and spread out, giving the feeling of true isolation while being a two minute walk from the beach under the Golden Gate Bridge. It's spectacular. You can Uber there if you have to."
Ocean views from Angel Island: Sunrise Campground on Angel Island offers exceptional vantage points. "Regular campers probably appreciate this, though more and more people are learning of their existence. Campsites are all reservable on the reservecalifornia website and they are highly recommended due to the small number of sites available," explains Randy B. "All of the sites offer differing views of the bay, with the three 'Ridge' sites giving campers views that stretch from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Bay Bridge with the city and Alcatraz in between!"
Rustic cabins at Steep Ravine: Steep Ravine Campground offers both tent sites and basic cabins. "These 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. No electricity but the wood burning stove provides some light. Bring candles and lanterns and some fabric for curtains for privacy," suggests Amber D.
What you should know
Extreme competition for reservations: Many Golden Gate National Recreation Area camping sites require advance planning. "Only 3 sites, very close to each other/nothing separating them. Sites were clean. #3 is all shade. Tent pad isn't level but site is on the ocean side (hung my hammock w a view of the GGB) and felt like it had more room," shares Nicole about Bicentennial Campground.
Wildlife interactions: Local wildlife can affect your camping experience. "Beware of the raccoons, they are quite aggressive and persistent in wanting to get to your food," warns one Kirby Cove camper. Another adds: "I've been camping my whole life and NEVER have I seen raccoons so persistent. 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."
Microclimates affect comfort: Weather varies dramatically across short distances. "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," says Joseph F. about Samuel P. Taylor. Another camper advises: "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers."
Tips for camping with families
Consider Samuel Taylor for first-timers: The accessible setting works well for introducing children to camping. "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," writes Susie B. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Pack earplugs for foghorn areas: Sound conditions affect sleep quality at certain sites. "This is an incredible spot, if you can get a reservation. Worth hiking to for the day if you can't. Right at the base of the Golden Gate with an easily accessible beach. BRING EARPLUGS. The fog horn doesn't quite if its foggy. And its LOUD," warns Ashley S. about Kirby Cove.
Try Tennessee Valley for moderate hiking: The trails near Haypress campground work well for mixed abilities. "The walk to Tennessee Beach is very flat and level and doable for kids. The campground is off on a slight detour but it's an easy starting spot for hike-in camping," shares Allison W. about Haypress. "Mornings can get foggy here, so bring a sweatshirt regardless of the season."
Tips from RVers
Tight spaces at urban RV parks: Most RV sites near San Francisco maximize density. "Very easy to get to from San Francisco. We had amazing views of the bridge and the city and were lucky enough to have a clear day (which is rare in SF!). We biked across the Golden Gate bridge and back. We hung out on the beach and had amazing views of the Golden Gate bridge from there," shares Ethan K. about Kirby Cove.
Overnight rest area option: The H. Dana Bower Rest Area provides a convenient free overnight option. "We arrived around 5:30pm, and were able to park for the night. There are several parking spots. Several other campers soon pulled in around us. It's a very busy overlook for the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and the San Francisco Bay, so don't expect to be here alone. But it's a great place to stop for a night if you're in the SF area," recommends Reed G.
Use public transit from RV parks: Consider transportation options when selecting locations. "This RV Park gets 5 stars purely for it's location. Drive in, park and then walk to all the sights you want to see in San Francisco. A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown San Francisco," explains Jeff T. about Marin RV Park. "We spent a week here and only drove when we wanted the experience driving down Lombard St and driving across the Golden Gate Bridge."
