Camping spots near Larkspur, California range from coastal bluffs to redwood groves across Marin County. The region has a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures averaging 60-70°F during summer and 45-55°F in winter, though coastal fog frequently rolls in during summer evenings. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 150-800 feet, creating microclimates that can require layered clothing even in July.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: 3.2-mile round-trip from Wildcat Campground to Alamere Falls, where water cascades directly onto the beach. "You can hike to, bike to, take the bus to, or even drive to this campground. If you choose to drive, just know that it can be impossible to find a place to park on busy weekends," notes Joseph F.
Explore immigration history: 5-mile loop trail around Angel Island State Park covers the former immigration station. "It used to be intake for immigration and even had some military presence on the island back in the day. Lots of old buildings to explore, in addition to the awesome views of the San Francisco Bay Area," explains Bryan R.
Visit coastal beaches: 3-mile hike from Mount Tamalpais down to Stinson Beach offers swimming and tide pooling. "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," recommends Erin S.
Explore military history: 1-hour self-guided tour of Battery Kirby near the campground. "Battery Kirby is right there at the campground and interesting to explore. Active from 1898 to 1934 the battery is quite interesting to walk through," reports Michael I.
What campers like
Convenient city access: The Marin RV Park provides a base for exploring San Francisco. "A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown San Francisco. We spent a week here and only drove when we wanted the experience driving down Lombard St," shares Jeff T.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer wildlife spotting opportunities at many campgrounds. "The wildlife is off the hook..I've seen deer in the seaside vernal pools, wild miniature ocean bunnies boxing in the morning sunshine, and a great white shark off the cliffs one fine day," reports Nikata L.
Historic stone grills: Many campgrounds feature unique cooking facilities. "Sites are spacious and include grills and fire pits. I hear some of them have really nice views but we wanted to be near the parking lot so that worked for us," notes Mylissa M.
Beach fires: Some coastal campgrounds permit beach fires with permits. "We had fun making a fire on the beach at night. It's pretty windy, so be prepared. Enough room for a big group of us and the remote location was perfect," shares Madelyn G.
What you should know
Extreme site competition: Most campgrounds require booking 6 months ahead. "There are only 10 sites on the island and being so accessible from the San Francisco Bay Area (only a ferry ride away from Pier 39), you can see why it is in so high demand," explains Bryan R.
Microclimates and fog: Temperatures vary dramatically across short distances. "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers," advises Kathleen C. at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Food storage is critical due to local wildlife. "The raccoons are vicious and fearless. Store all food and ANYTHING with a scent in the bear box. If you plan to leave your cooler outside of the bear box make sure it has a lock," warns Gregory R.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. "Beautiful campground but close to the road... If you're tent camping, the vehicle noise from the nearby Sir Francis Drake Blvd can be distracting if you are a light sleeper," mentions Tai W.
Tips for camping with families
Choose redwoods for shade: Pantoll Campground offers cooler temperatures under tree cover. "It was really windy but up above in the trees so our tent wasn't blowing away," reports Mylissa M.
Plan for novice campers: Some campgrounds attract first-timers. "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," suggests Susie B.
Consider group dynamics: Some campgrounds accommodate large family gatherings. "Very nice campground in redwoods. Sites are close, but have some privacy. Stream is accessible shallow. Beautiful trees," reports gabriel F.
Prepare for nighttime wildlife encounters: Kids may be startled by nocturnal visitors. "Small vermin running around the fields and looking to snag any food you've left out. We didn't have any issues, but definitely heard them," reports Elliott B.
Tips from RVers
Ferry access: At Bicentennial Campground, leave your RV and use public transportation. "You definitely want to reserve a space well in advance, especially during peak times, although we went in January and walked in and got a space," advises Amanda S.
Site size limitations: Many campgrounds have tight turns and limited space. "Level pad for camp trailers. Fire pits updated and bbq on every site. Site 49 is a nice site," notes Mike C.
Overnight parking options: For self-contained RVs, some free options exist. "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," explains Reed G.
Hookup availability: Limited full-service options exist in the area. "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," explains David M.
Ranger
