Best Campgrounds near Novato, CA
The Marin County region surrounding Novato, California features diverse camping opportunities within a 30-mile radius, from coastal sites to inland forests. Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, located 20 miles southwest in Lagunitas, offers creekside camping beneath towering redwoods with tent, RV, and cabin options. Point Reyes National Seashore, slightly farther west, provides more remote backcountry experiences at Sky and Wildcat campgrounds. For those seeking full hookups, San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA operates year-round with family-friendly amenities, while Marin RV Park in Greenbrae serves as a convenient base for San Francisco exploration.
Campground reservations throughout the region often require planning several months in advance, particularly during summer weekends and holidays. As one camper noted about Samuel P. Taylor State Park: "The night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers." Coastal campgrounds experience frequent fog, especially mornings, while inland sites can reach high temperatures during summer days. Most state park campgrounds offer basic amenities including potable water, restrooms, and fire rings, though fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons. Cell service varies significantly, with better coverage at developed campgrounds near highways and limited or no service in more remote coastal areas.
Wildlife encounters are common throughout Marin County campgrounds, with raccoons, chipmunks, and birds frequently mentioned in camper reviews. Many campgrounds serve as excellent basecamps for regional exploration, with one visitor highlighting that Samuel P. Taylor Park is "close to Point Reyes National Seashore, San Rafael, Olema, Novato and Marshall." Hiking trails connect many campgrounds to nearby natural attractions, with Mount Tamalpais State Park's Pantoll Campground offering walk-in tent sites with access to extensive trail networks. Site privacy varies considerably, with some campgrounds featuring closely spaced sites while others provide more seclusion. Weekday camping typically offers quieter experiences than weekends, when family groups and day visitors can create a more social atmosphere.