Millbrae's coastal camping options encompass a range of environments from redwood forests to oceanfront sites. The area experiences frequent marine fog, particularly during summer mornings, with temperatures averaging 50-65°F year-round. Wind conditions intensify near coastal campsites, requiring proper tent anchoring and windbreaks for comfortable yurt camping near Millbrae, California.
What to do
Tide pool exploration: 2-mile walk from Francis Beach Campground gives access to marine ecosystems. "Beautiful beach walking distance from campground. Bike or walking trails to wonderful beaches and places to eat. Short drive to many other areas," notes Carina B.
Cycling coastal paths: 4-mile trail runs through the campground area. "Getting to know the kids in a different setting and seeing their kids' enthusiasm about simple natural wonders like a banana slug or the night sky," notes one camper about the experience at Rob Hill Campground.
Redwood forest hikes: Multiple trails ranging from 1-15 miles available. "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," reports Patrick O.
Oyster shucking: 30-minute drive to Marshall for fresh seafood. "I would highly recommend Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding, Hog Island in Marshall (snag a picnic table and shuck your own oysters - definitely a highlight) and Cowgirl Creamery in Point Reyes Station," recommends a visitor to Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
What campers like
Cabin comfort with outdoor access: The rustic cabins at Steep Ravine Campground offer unique accommodations. "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," says Amber D.
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. "Sites are close, but have some privacy. Stream is accessible shallow. Beautiful trees," describes gabriel F. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Alternative yurt options: For those seeking Millbrae-adjacent yurt camping, Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA provides comfortable structures. "This is a great camp ground for families as well as seniors! We attended a presentation on the wild birds in the area that an employee provided, and then he took us on a hike through Costanoa and over to the ocean," shares Dave.
Weather variety: The natural cooling systems create comfortable conditions. "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," explains Joseph F.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Securing spots requires advance planning. "Steep ravine - extremely hard to get a reservation. Can get very windy! Georgeous spot to pitch your tent on the ocean cliffs," advises Kelly S.
Weather preparation: Marine layer creates variable 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," cautions Patrick O.
Gate code requirements: Some campgrounds require specific entry codes. "They changed their email system, making it so you have to call to get the gate code. We forgot to call," Jack M. warns about Steep Ravine.
Facility limitations: Bathroom access varies significantly between sites. "RV sites are basically parking lot with 4' strips of grass in between, But it was March and mostly empty. Tent sites are hike in up hill and nicely spaced in the woods. Wagons on site to get your stuff up there. Ranger was useless. you need codes for the gate after 7pm, the showers, and the RV dump and they don't volunteer that info," reports daren W. about Sanborn County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Equipment transport assistance: For sites requiring walking, plan accordingly. "It's a short walk up a paved path from the parking to the campsites. The park provides carts to help with hauling gear, and storage boxes are provided at the site, near the picnic table," explains Amanda P. about Sanborn County Park.
Kid-friendly campground activities: Some sites offer organized programming. "Very beautiful and not too far from San Francisco," notes Caroline O. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
Family site selection: Choose sites with appropriate spacing and amenities. "Lucky to have good weather and limited wind. beautiful walk in site (about 200 feet from car). other sites were crowded (more of a parking lot) but amazing location with access to beach. if you can get sites 36-38 go for it! tent only for these sites," recommends Theresa N.
Wildlife education opportunities: Marine and forest wildlife viewing enhances family experiences. "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," describes Nikata L.
Tips from RVers
Space limitations: Many coastal sites have tight spacing. "Spaces for RVs are unpaved and additional cars are on cement. Hookups are pretty fast away and needed my sewer extension. If you have slide outs, careful to not hit your neighbor!" warns C.W. from Treasure Island MH and RV Park.
Seasonal availability: RV spots open up during weekdays. "We had almost the entire row to ourselves after checkout on Sunday. We will definitely return for the full experience when all restrictions are lifted," notes Andrea A.
RV site amenities: Look for sites with appropriate hook-ups. "The RV area has ~20 sites. They all have water and 30 amps hookups. RVs are pretty close to each other, but not too invasive. Restrooms and showers are clean and in a very decent condition. Each site has a table and a charcoal [grill]," shares Ignasi M.
Road access considerations: Coastal and mountain roads present challenges. "To get to Sanborn you will have to drive up a narrow road. We didn't have any issue with a 21' though," reports Ignasi M.
