Tent camping near Novato, California provides access to multiple walk-in sites within the Marin Headlands and Point Reyes National Seashore regions. The area's Mediterranean climate features dry summers with temperatures averaging 70-85°F and foggy, mild winters around 45-60°F. Most walk-in tent sites are situated at elevations between 500-1500 feet, offering protection from coastal winds while still providing access to nearby trail systems.
What to do
Beach exploration and tidepooling: The campsites near Wildcat Campground provide direct access to beach areas with unique marine ecosystems. "The beach offers tidepools close by as well as a great place for beach fire (permit needed)," notes one camper who frequently visits Coast Campground.
Hiking to waterfalls: Make the short journey from Wildcat Campground to Alamere Falls, a coastal waterfall. "Just a short beach-walk away," mentions one reviewer who ranks Wildcat as their top choice among Point Reyes trail camps.
Mountain biking access: Some campsites allow for bike-in camping options. "Gotta either bike in or hike in," explains a reviewer of Haypress Campground, which offers a more secluded experience within riding distance of Tennessee Valley trails.
Night sky viewing: The Marin Headlands provide excellent stargazing opportunities away from city lights. "The night had beautiful stars with no artificial light. No road noise," reports a camper who stayed at Haypress Campground in March.
What campers like
Protected camping locations: Several tent sites are positioned to minimize coastal wind exposure. "We try to get what they call the 'group' kayak site. There is ample room here and there is direct access to the water," shares a regular at Angel Island State Park, noting that higher elevation sites have better views.
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local fauna. "There are owls perched in eucalyptus trees next to the campsite, and coyotes. Came across one on the way back from a sunset hike to the beach," reports a visitor to Haypress Campground.
Historical features: Many campsites include access to historical structures. "You can hike throughout the island to with great bay views and bridge views on all sides. Then there is the history there from the Civil War sites to the immigration sites - so there is much to see and do beyond hiking," explains an Angel Island camper.
Historic cooking equipment: "Many of the sites feature beautiful historic stone grills. Some of the sites are two levels," notes a visitor describing the tent sites at Bootjack Campground, which features walk-in tent camping with amenities.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Securing tent sites requires planning well ahead. "These are sites are in high demand, but totally worth the wait to experience," mentions a camper who hiked into Wildcat Camp, where reservations open months in advance.
Wind considerations: Coastal tent sites experience significant wind patterns. "It can get windy, but low brush provides some protection. Very peaceful and well worth the hike in," notes a visitor to Wildcat Camp, which sits near the coastal bluffs.
Wildlife food protection: Small animals can be persistent around tent camping areas. "Bring some steel wool or a critter-proof container to keep food safe, even inside the locker," advises a camper who experienced food storage box breaches at Glen Campground in Point Reyes.
Water availability: Several tent sites have limited or seasonal water access. "Neither the parking lot nor the campground had running water, so come prepared unless you want to drive into town," explains a Haypress Campground visitor who had to carefully ration water during their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Consider tent site proximity: Choose locations with easier access for younger children. "This was our first backpacking trip and we mostly wanted to test our gear. This was perfect for that. 5-mile hike in with some uphill in the last 1.5 miles that was challenging but not too hard," shares a family who stayed at Glen Campground.
Beach access options: Select camps that provide direct shoreline access. "The hike to the campsite went by fast. Only 1.8 miles, not too bad on the elevation gain either," notes a family who enjoyed Coast Campground at Point Reyes National Seashore with its convenient beach access.
Weather preparation: Pack for temperature variations, particularly at higher elevations. "During the day it actually got pretty hot at our campsite (#1), lots of exposure probably around low 70s. At night it did get chilly, 38-39 degrees F, nothing a good sleeping bag couldn't fix," advises a Coast Campground visitor who camped in February.
Site selection for privacy: "Site 8 was a little bit secluded and away from other sites. The site was smallish and had a fox box and picnic table," recommends a visitor to Glen Campground, noting that some sites offer more seclusion than others.
Tips for RVers
Parking considerations: Most tent sites require walk-in access from designated parking areas. "This is a park and carry campsite—of which you'll have to carry your gear up a couple sets of stairs. Most sites are near the road and you'll hear bicycles all night," warns a visitor to Bootjack Campground, noting the $25 cost and parking limitations.
Alternative camping options: For those wanting more amenities, consider Steep Ravine Campground which offers both tent sites and cabins. "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," explains a visitor who opted for a cabin over tent camping.
Bathrooms and facilities: Tent sites offer varying levels of facilities. "Never expected such a clean bathroom at a campsite!! The amenities at the camp were terrific!!" reports a surprised visitor to Bootjack Campground, who initially expected to car camp but adapted to the walk-in tent site.
