RV campgrounds near Mill Valley, California sit north of San Francisco within a heavily developed suburban region offering limited but strategic camping options. Travelers choose these parks primarily for exploring San Francisco, coastal regions, and wine country rather than as destination campgrounds themselves. Most Mill Valley area RV parks feature tight, gravel-based sites with full hookups and minimal site privacy.
What to do
Beach exploration: 30-minute drive from Mill Valley leads to Bodega Bay where Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park provides water access. "You can see the Milky Way at night while listening to the soft foghorn and every now and then a soft bark of a seal," notes one camper who appreciates the natural soundscape.
Walking paths: Near coastal campgrounds offer recreational opportunities without driving. At Bodega Bay RV Park, "There are nearby paths which I didn't get to explore too much, but I believe bay and beach access isn't far away." The park's location provides access to coastal trails with minimal driving.
Farmer's market visits: Saturday shopping becomes convenient at some campgrounds. "On Saturdays there is a farmer's market on the property adjascent to the park," reports a visitor to Bodega Bay RV Park, making food shopping more convenient during weekend stays.
What campers like
Waterfront locations: Ocean views provide compensation for tight camping spaces. A camper at Pillar Point RV Park reports, "Great spot right off the highway and on the beach. Lots of activities and places to eat within walking distance. Surfing, walking/bike trails, kayaking.... Pet friendly."
Public transportation access: Ferry terminal proximity eliminates driving in city traffic. "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 a visitor at Marin RV Park.
Ocean wildlife viewing: Whale watching sometimes happens directly from campgrounds. When staying at San Francisco RV Resort, one camper observed, "It has a ca beach town feel, but is just 20 minutes from San Francisco... Saw a couple whales too. When it's clear you can see the farralon islands 30 miles offshore."
What you should know
Site spacing concerns: Extremely narrow sites affect comfort and privacy. "These spaces were so cramped. Couldn't put our awning out," reports a visitor to San Francisco RV Resort, highlighting the typical space limitations at Bay Area parks.
Advanced booking requirements: Holiday weekends require months of advance planning. "We spent a week here and only drove when we wanted the experience driving down Lombard St and driving across the Golden Gate Bridge," notes a camper, indicating the strategic value of securing spots despite their limitations.
Balancing cost against location: Higher prices reflect proximity to San Francisco rather than amenity quality. At Treasure Island MH and RV Park, a visitor states, "Reservation was stressful and annoying!!! No person on site, but security drives around. It is not a nice place to stay in this concrete desert. Bathrooms and wifi were okay though."
Tips for camping with families
Activity restrictions: No bike riding allowed at certain parks limits children's options. "It's not the best for families though. No bike riding or scooting, so we had to walk them to the walking path. They also mention a few times about well behaved children," cautions a visitor at Bodega Bay RV Park.
Noise considerations: Early morning fishermen create unavoidable noise at marina locations. A camper at Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park observed, "The fishermen docked in the marina start getting ready at about 4:30am! They are not quiet," which can affect light sleepers.
Wildlife awareness: Raccoon activity requires proper food storage. "They have raccoons but don't tell you that, we didn't leave anything out but had muddy footprints all over our table in the morning!" shares a visitor at Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Long-term residents: Many permanent campers change the atmosphere at some parks. "Looks like many are residents here. The neighbouring lot is very deserted looking, and it just didn't feel safe. Dark, not well lit," notes a San Francisco RV Resort visitor, indicating the mixed-use nature of these parks.
Leveling challenges: Uneven surfaces require proper equipment. At Novato RV Park, a visitor mentioned, "Sites are gravel, not level and close together," suggesting RVers should come prepared with leveling blocks.
Utility positioning: Hookup locations sometimes require extensions. "Hookups are pretty fast away and needed my sewer extention," reports a camper at Treasure Island MH and RV Park, highlighting the importance of bringing extra-length utility hoses.
