Greenbrae camping options extend throughout Marin County, with sites that range from sea level up to 2,600 feet near Mount Tamalpais peaks. Winter temperatures typically range from 45-65°F, while summer brings 55-85°F conditions, with coastal sites often 10-15 degrees cooler than inland campgrounds. Foggy mornings are standard at most campsites near Greenbrae, California, especially from May through August when morning visibility can be limited to under 100 feet.
What to do
Horseback riding access: 5 miles from Greenbrae. Five Brooks Ranch in Olema offers guided trail rides through Point Reyes National Seashore. "I would highly recommend Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding," notes a visitor to Samuel P. Taylor State Park, who ranked this activity as a "highlight" of their trip.
Beach exploration: 3-mile hike required. At Wildcat Campground, campers can take a short beach walk to Alamere Falls. "Just a mile or so before you get to camp there is a side trail to the left for Alamere Falls... Better to dump your pack at camp and walk up the beach. So beautiful!" advises one camper.
Urban exploration via ferry: 10-minute walk. The ferry near Marin RV Park takes you directly to downtown San Francisco. "We spent a week here and only drove when we wanted the experience driving down Lombard St and driving across the Golden Gate Bridge. Otherwise we took the ferry and then public transportation to all other points of interest in the San Francisco area."
Hiking network: Extensive trail system. The trails from Pantoll Campground provide access to multiple parks. "You can hike anywhere from this campground. Down to Muir Woods in less than 3 miles. Up to Rock Springs, Bolinas Ridge, and Mount Tam. Down to Stinson Beach. I could spend a week here exploring all the trails."
What campers like
Unique overnight urban views: $0 cost. From H. Dana Bower Rest Area Northbound, campers get front-row Golden Gate Bridge views. "I had an excellent view of the city and the bridge. There were a lot of people, including a bunch of teenagers, hanging out at the rest area. Plus, quite a few people stopping just to take a quick photograph."
Private beach access: Limited sites available. The beach at Wildcat Camp provides solitude despite day hikers. "Just a reminder to cancel your reservation if you don't plan to come, there were 2/8 sites not occupied on a Saturday that could have been used by someone who really wants to experience this great location."
Rustic cabin experiences: Difficult reservations. Steep Ravine Campground offers unique oceanfront 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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities. Raccoons are frequently encountered at camping areas near the Golden Gate Bridge. "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."
What you should know
Reservation windows: 6 months in advance. The most sought-after sites book immediately. "How is it possible that I am the first to review this place, the number one most difficult to reserve spot in all of California (and therefore presumably all of America)?!" notes a camper at Angel Island State Park.
Microclimate preparation: Pack for three seasons. Weather can change dramatically within short distances. "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers."
Noise considerations: Foghorns and traffic. Campgrounds near bridges and highways experience persistent noise. "If you're tent camping, the vehicle noise from the nearby Sir Francis Drake Blvd can be distracting if you are a light sleeper."
Limited RV access at most natural sites. Most scenic campgrounds have tight access roads and limited space. "It's a bit too tight for large trailer or RV camping (unless you are an expert at maneuvering through tight spaces)," warns a camper about Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for privacy: Research specific site numbers. At Samuel P. Taylor State Park, choose carefully for family groups. "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... if I returned I would snag site 44. Just trust me on this."
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for playgrounds. Olema Campground offers family-focused facilities. "Olema is our go to spot. Every year with and without grandkids. Clean and friendly staff. The store has the necessities. The kids love the playground and try their hand at shuffleboard."
First-timer considerations: Expect learning curves. Some campgrounds attract inexperienced campers, especially on weekends. "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."
Packing for marine environments: Multiple layers essential. Coastal camping requires extra preparation. "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."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Prepare for tight quarters. Marin RV Park offers convenient location but minimal space. "This is a parking lot with full hookups strategically located to public transit direct to San Francisco. It's surprisingly quiet for being in a semi industrial area right next to the 101, but there is road noise of course."
Dump station access: Limited facilities. Most scenic locations lack RV services. "For what this RV park is designed to be, it is done very well. It's a parking lot with full hookups strategically located to public transit direct to San Francisco."
Parking strategies: Plan for detached parking. Many campgrounds require gear transport from parking areas. "Campsites are walk in throughout the island. Remember there will be fog and there will be wind."
Navigation challenges: Prepare for coastal roads. RVs face difficult approaches to many coastal campgrounds. "It's a classic, twisty ride on Highway 1 to get to the entrance, and then another steep, curvy ride down to the campground. Campers sensitive to motion sickness or vertigo be warned."
