Rustic cabins and glamping sites dot the northern California coastline near Muir Woods, providing unique overnight accommodations within a 30-minute drive of this ancient redwood forest. The region experiences temperature inversions where summer fog rolls in during afternoons, creating cooler coastal conditions even when inland areas reach 80°F. Winter camping near Muir Woods often means dealing with nighttime temperatures that drop into the 30s, requiring proper cold-weather gear.
What to do
Tidepooling adventures at low tide: Coast Campground at Point Reyes National Seashore provides access to beach areas with exceptional marine life. "The beach offers tidepools close by as well as a great place for beach fire (permit needed)," notes one camper who regularly visits this hike-in spot.
Archery and disc golf courses: Just a short drive from Muir Woods, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy diverse activities at Skyline Wilderness Park. "The 800+ acres of hills, woods and fields offers archery, disc golf, hiking, horseback riding and more," writes a recent visitor who appreciated these unique recreational options.
Bird watching on coastal bluffs: The oceanfront location of many sites provides exceptional wildlife viewing. "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," shares a longtime visitor to the coastal camping areas, highlighting the diverse ecosystem.
Beach strolling for miles: The shoreline near Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground offers extensive walking opportunities. "You can walk for miles on the beach or on the bluff trails. Everyone is laidback which makes for a peaceful experience. Great sunsets!!" writes a camper who enjoyed the coastal access.
What campers like
Protected coastal campsites: The inland valley location at Coast Campground creates a natural wind barrier. "Coast camp is a favorite get away. In the Point Reyes National Seashore it is in a valley that is minutes from the beach... I like the sites back in the valley as there is less wind or fog. That would be 13 and 14," explains a frequent visitor.
Night sky viewing: Camping options outside the immediate Bay Area provide less light pollution. "Being so close to SF you'd be surprised at how many stars appear at night," notes a camper about the exceptional stargazing conditions in more remote coastal areas.
Easy urban-to-nature transition: Bicentennial Campground at Golden Gate National Recreation Area offers proximity to San Francisco while maintaining a natural setting. "This is an excellent primitive campground with 3 sites. It has great hiking nearby and an incredible view of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city, and is a short drive into the city," reports a visitor.
Quick forest access for families: Samuel P. Taylor State Park provides convenient camping for city dwellers. "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," explains one camper about this accessible location.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Securing glamping sites requires significant advance planning. "Steep ravine is extremely hard to get a reservation. Can get very windy! Georgeous spot to pitch your tent on the ocean cliffs," explains a visitor who successfully booked at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
Weather variability year-round: The coastal environment near Muir Woods experiences dramatic temperature shifts. "At night it did get chilly, 38-39 degrees F, nothing a good sleeping bag couldn't fix," notes a February camper at Coast Campground, while another adds, "Always expect fog. Expect cold and damp at night."
Site spacing considerations: Some campgrounds offer minimal privacy between sites. "Sites 8-13 are in the wide open right along the Coast Trail. They are protected from the wind and ocean by a nice hill, but there is no privacy from the trail or between campsites," warns a Coast Camp visitor about specific site locations.
Noise factors: Road and trail proximity affects some camping experiences. "The vehicle noise from the nearby Sir Francis Drake Blvd can be distracting if you are a light sleeper (and you are tent camping)," reports a visitor to Samuel P. Taylor State Park regarding sites near the main road.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers extensive family facilities. "A lot of different areas for the kids. Swimming, giant bounce area, and mild weather. Coffee bar, large play grounds and near shopping for any needs," recommends a family who visited with their children.
Group camping options: Rob Hill Campground in the Presidio provides rare city-based group camping. "It was quite the hidden gem set amidst a stunning cypress and eucalyptus grove. Looked like there was easily room for at least a dozen small tents at each of the sites and nice restrooms accessible via combination punch pad."
Educational experiences: Multiple sites feature interpretive programs. "There are all kinds of trails available, as well as a paved path that runs for at least a mile or so along the creek, that used to be the old railroad line through that area. They have informational signs all over the place providing historical or ecological information."
Close-to-home first camping: Nearby state parks provide introductory camping experiences. "Samuel Taylor's everything about the campground is GREAT. The location is CLASSIC. West Marin is BEAUTIFUL. And 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."
Tips from RVers
RV site selection guidance: Olema Campground offers multiple hookup options for recreational vehicles. "RV campsites are arranged in cul de sacs, tent spots on the edges of fields. Somewhat noisy - kids, dogs, radios - but settled down by 9. Friendly vibe."
Urban RV alternatives: While challenging to find near Muir Woods itself, several developed campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. "The plus is friendly staff, amazing views, easy hookups, FREE showers and absolutely beautiful hikes that start right outside your door," writes an RV camper about Skyline Wilderness Park.
Hook-up specifics: Many sites offer basic utilities for self-contained camping. "Clean showers and bathrooms, some trees, close to Raley's Grocery store. Easy drive to the wineries of Napa Valley, a little further to Sonoma but a nice drive. Picnic table, some full hook-ups and some partial."
Tight space navigation: Olema Campground works well for smaller RVs despite limited space. "Sites were level with minimal need for blocks. Staff are friendly. Native garden is very nice. Hiking is nice too especially in winter when everything is green."
