Samuel P. Taylor State Park sits nestled among redwoods in Marin County, approximately 15 miles west of Nicasio at an elevation of 170 feet. The park features camping options along Lagunitas Creek where winter temperatures can drop to the high 30s at night, requiring campers to pack additional warm layers even during summer months. The terrain alternates between dense forest and open meadows with multiple camping styles available throughout the region.
What to do
Hiking from your site: At Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, trails lead directly from the campsites into surrounding forests. "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," notes Joseph F. The path features informational signs providing historical and ecological information.
Explore local beaches: From Coast Campground at Point Reyes National Seashore, the beach is just minutes away. "The beach was sandy and beautiful, not that many people around," says Char A., who camped there for two nights. The area offers opportunities for beach fires with proper permits and collected driftwood.
Stargazing adventures: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground hosts regular astronomy events at their on-site observatory. "There is an observatory and nice hiking here. We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" reports Syd D. The observatory offers special programs throughout the year, making this a unique glamping opportunity near Nicasio.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: At Olema Campground, campers regularly encounter local wildlife. According to one visitor, "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!" The proximity to Point Reyes National Seashore provides opportunities to observe coastal wildlife in their natural habitat.
Morning temperature variation: Coastal fog patterns create distinct microclimates. "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. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park. This makes layered clothing essential when glamping near Nicasio.
Proximity to wine country: Skyline Wilderness Park offers camping with convenient access to Napa Valley wineries. "Location itself is GREAT. 5 mins from everything in town," notes Jules S. Another camper adds, "Wish we had more time to spend there. Bonus: short drive to Downtown Napa."
What you should know
Campsite privacy varies: At Steep Ravine Campground, sites provide seclusion while others put you in closer proximity to neighbors. "The 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," mentions Amber D.
Weather preparation essential: Coastal camping requires preparation for fog and wind. One camper at Steep Ravine recommends, "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."
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds in the region fill quickly, especially during peak season. For Steep Ravine, Adam notes, "the cabins are not only notoriously difficult to reserve -- you need to be ready to click 'reserve' on the website at no less than 5 minutes before the window opens for your dates of interest, which was 6 months ahead of time when I reserved."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers multiple child-oriented features. "Playgrounds, swimming pool, lots of space to run and scream. We stay when visiting the area and endure the screaming kids. The kids do have fun, I give them that," shares Linda A. The campground includes specialized play areas designed for different age groups.
Family-oriented campsites: For families new to camping, Samuel P. Taylor offers a gentle introduction. "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," states Susie B., though she cautions about occasionally noisy neighbors.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led programs specifically for children. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park provides nature events throughout summer. Scott J. explains, "There's great hiking, an observatory, and often nature events throughout the summer (docent led hikes for example). The volunteers who run the place do a fantastic job with everything, from keeping the site clean, to providing tons of info for budding naturalists."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Bodega Bay RV Park, RV sites have varying exposure and proximity to amenities. "Sites are all gravel with a picnic table and divided by a fence," explains one camper. The layout makes site selection important for privacy and convenience.
Maneuverability considerations: Skyline Wilderness Park offers RV camping with specific navigation challenges. "Sites are level with minimal need for blocks," notes Adam B., though the campground has a "gravel parking area pretty close to one another."
Access to local attractions: RV campers appreciate the strategic location of many campgrounds. "We stopped here on our way to the Redwoods and it was a beautiful stop," says Marnie G. about Petaluma KOA, adding, "We also appreciated that it was close to city amenities like Lagunitas Brewing Co."
