Camping options near Pinole, California span from shoreline locations with views of San Francisco Bay to forested mountain terrain with elevation changes up to 2,500 feet. The region's Mediterranean climate creates a year-round camping season with average temperatures ranging from 45-75°F, though summer fog often blankets coastal sites until mid-morning. Water access varies significantly, with several campgrounds offering no potable water or requiring campers to carry in their own supplies.
What to Do
Hike through redwoods: Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground offers access to miles of trails through redwood forests. "There is 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," notes Joseph F.
Watch wildlife: Bird watching and animal spotting opportunities abound throughout the region. At Anthony Chabot Regional Park, campers regularly see "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!" according to Adam B., while another camper reports experiencing "so much wildlife to see (deer, turkeys, owls, etc.)."
Visit historical military sites: Kirby Cove Campground near Sausalito provides access to Battery Kirby. "Battery Kirby is right there at the campground and interesting to explore. Active from 1898 to 1934 the battery in quite interesting to walk through," explains Michael I. The Golden Gate area features multiple military installations worth exploring.
What Campers Like
Island camping experience: Angel Island State Park offers a unique camping experience just a ferry ride away. "You have to take a boat to get out to Angel Island so you have to drive up to Tiburon and park your car and get onto one of the Ferry Boats," explains Marion D. The island features hiking trails and historical exhibits.
Accessibility to urban areas: Many campgrounds provide easy access to nearby cities. Marin RV Park camper Jeff T. appreciates that you can "Drive in, park and then walk to all the sights you want to see in San Francisco. A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown San Francisco."
Secluded spaces: Despite proximity to urban areas, many sites offer surprising privacy. One camper at Skyline Wilderness Park noted, "A safe, beautiful, affordable property to spend outdoors time on... The 800+ acres of hills, woods and fields offers archery, disc golf, hiking, horseback riding and more."
What You Should Know
Seasonal weather challenges: Coastal fog and wind affect many campgrounds. At Steep Ravine Campground, campers should know "it gets very windy and chilly at night, so come prepared with a sturdy tent and warm clothing." Another camper advises, "bring enough stakes to guy out your tent as there isn't any wind protection from trees or boulders."
Reservation competition: Most campgrounds require advance booking, with some extremely difficult to secure. A camper at Steep Ravine notes, "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."
Wildlife encounters: Kirby Cove Campground campers frequently mention raccoon activity. "I've been camping my whole life and NEVER have I seen raccoons so persistent. Not aggressive. Just persistent. And fearless. They. Will. Not. Leave. You. Alone. From like 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm they will stalk your site looking for ANY unsecured food," warns Daniel D.
Tips for Camping with Families
Proximity to urban amenities: For families wanting a gentler introduction to camping, Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers an ideal setting. "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," notes Susie B.
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds feature interpretive elements. "They have informational signs all over the place providing historical or ecological information," notes a camper at Samuel P. Taylor, while Angel Island offers an "Immigration museum (think Ellis Island but for the west coast!)."
Recreation variety: Anthony Chabot Regional Park provides diverse activities for different age groups. "There is an extensive network of trails accessible from the campground," notes Amanda P., while another reviewer mentions that "It's a great natural area that is so conveniently located in the Bay Area."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Few campgrounds offer full RV services. One camper at Skyline Wilderness Park observed, "RV campsites are close together and semi-level. Bathrooms could use some TLC. But the park is nice with lots of hiking, views and close to Napa."
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds have limitations on RV length. At Samuel P. Taylor, one camper noted it's "a bit too tight for large trailer or RV camping (unless you are an expert at maneuvering through tight spaces)."
Alternative overnight options: For RVers needing just an overnight stop, Benicia State Recreation Area offers unique options. "This state recreation area has 3 spots for overnight parking (one night only, first come first served). As this is a popular day use area for hikers and bikers, you can't pull in until 3pm and you have to be out by 9am," explains Laura M.
