The Mill Valley area connects to both Mount Tamalpais State Park and Point Reyes National Seashore, with elevations ranging from sea level to over 2,500 feet. These parks feature microclimates that create distinct camping experiences between inland and coastal sites. Seasonal temperatures vary dramatically, with coastal sites often 10-15°F cooler than inland locations during summer months.
What to do
Hiking to natural features: At Wildcat Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore, campers can take the short 2-mile round-trip walk to Alamere Falls. "The hike to the campground from the Bear Valley Visitor Center is about 6.3 miles or a 5.5-mile hike on the Coast Trail from Palomarin," notes one visitor. Others mention that "if you head in the opposite direction of the Falls, you'll have miles and miles of no one around."
Stargazing at night: Glen Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore offers excellent night sky viewing despite being relatively close to urban areas. "We saw lots of wildlife and the stargazing was first-rate, even though you could see the distant glow of civilization in the night sky," reports a camper. The campground's position among the trees creates natural shielding from ambient light.
Bay viewing from elevated sites: From some camps like Sky Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore, you can see across the bay. "Sites 10 and 11 have the best views and can see the ocean," mentions one reviewer. Another notes that "the campsite is literally on the side of a mountain and you're overlooking the SF Bay."
What campers like
Private sites: At Bootjack Campground, campers appreciate the amenities and layout. "Each campsite had a table and bench, wood grill area, and easy access to the restrooms, potable water, and trash cans (that are inside wooden boxes to deter wildlife)," reports one reviewer. The campground maintains a balance of accessibility and natural surroundings.
Beach proximity: Campers at Steep Ravine Campground — Mount Tamalpais State Park value the ocean access. "The campgrounds are amazing and a world unto themselves," writes one camper. Another mentions that "the entire Mount Tamalpais watershed is within 30 minutes drive from this location. The hiking trails that join from the coast all the way to Mill Valley and central Marin are walking distance from this site."
Environmental variety: Many campers cite the diverse ecosystems accessible from a single campsite. "The six mile hike to reach the campground is stunning. The hike changes drastically over the course of the six miles ranging from lush forests to grassy fields to breathtaking coastal views," notes a Wildcat Camp visitor. This environmental diversity within walking distance is consistently mentioned as a highlight.
What you should know
Weather preparation: The coast brings unpredictable conditions. "Bring layers of functional clothes since the weather on the coast of the SF bay can be anything from roasting to foggy frigid cold during the day and night year round. Don't just look at weather online and go," advises a Steep Ravine reviewer. Morning fog is common even during summer months.
Reservation challenges: The best tent camping near Mill Valley, California requires advance planning. For Bicentennial Campground — Golden Gate National Recreation Area, a camper notes, "Only 3 tent sites available. You have to reserve ahead of time." Similarly, Steep Ravine is "extremely hard to get a reservation" with cabins being "notoriously difficult to reserve."
Walk-in requirements: Most campgrounds require carrying gear from parking areas. "You have to park at the top of the hill and bring your stuff down which isn't very far," explains a Bicentennial Campground reviewer. At Pantoll Campground, sites "up the hill require a bit of a hike-in but are farther from the road noise and busy parking lot."
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility options: For families with younger children, choose less strenuous approaches. "It's only a 1.5 mile hike in from the parking lots so it's great for beginners or kids," mentions a Sky Camp reviewer. Several campgrounds offer sites with varying distances from parking areas.
Wildlife encounters: Children often enjoy the abundant wildlife. At Glen Campground, campers report seeing "lots of wildlife" throughout their stay. Consider bringing binoculars for wildlife viewing, especially at coastal sites where seals and marine birds are common.
Seasonal timing: Spring camping provides better weather and flora experiences for families. "I'd maybe try coming in spring (May) as the wildflowers in the area are amazing!!" suggests a Wildcat Camp visitor. Weekday visits during shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October) offer better availability and fewer crowds.
Tips from RVers
Alternative accommodations: Since most sites near Mill Valley accommodate tents only, RV campers might consider Haypress Campground — Golden Gate National Recreation Area for its accessibility. "These are limited (5) hike in tent sites. Not far in - less than a mile," notes a reviewer, making it possible to park an RV nearby and walk to the camp. Some RVers report setting up a basecamp here while exploring the wider region by vehicle.
