Best Campgrounds near Larkspur, CA
Campgrounds near Larkspur, California encompass a range of developed facilities across Marin County's scenic landscapes. Mount Tamalpais State Park offers several tent-focused options including Pantoll Campground and Bootjack Campground, while Samuel P. Taylor State Park provides tent, RV and cabin accommodations along a creek setting. For travelers seeking coastal proximity, Steep Ravine Campground presents both tent sites and rustic cabins perched above the Pacific Ocean. The area features a mix of first-come, first-served and reservation-required sites, with varying levels of amenity access from primitive to full hookups.
Camping access throughout the region varies seasonally, with many campgrounds open year-round but experiencing different conditions. Mount Tamalpais sites typically provide flush toilets and drinking water but limited parking, especially during peak summer weekends when trailhead lots fill quickly. First-come, first-served campgrounds like Pantoll may require arriving mid-week or early morning to secure a site. Most tent camping in the area requires carrying gear a short distance from parking areas, while RV options are more limited and often require advance planning. Several campgrounds prohibit pets or have restrictions on fires, particularly during dry seasons. A camper noted: "Like Bootjack this is a first come first serve tent only campground. Pantoll is closer to Cardiac Point and more trails. You could hike pretty much anywhere in Mt. Tam from here."
Many developed campgrounds in the area serve as excellent basecamps for exploring the region's extensive trail networks. Campsites at Pantoll and Bootjack provide direct access to hiking trails connecting to Muir Woods, Stinson Beach, and Mount Tamalpais summit. RV camping at Marin RV Park offers proximity to San Francisco via nearby ferry service, making it popular for city exploration. According to one visitor, "This RV Park gets 5 stars purely for its location. Drive in, park and then walk to all the sights you want to see in San Francisco." Sites near water features or with scenic views tend to be the most sought-after, while those closer to roads may experience traffic noise. Many campgrounds feature historic stone grills, food storage lockers, and picnic tables, though site sizes and privacy levels vary considerably.
