Cabin camping near Port Costa, California offers visitors access to coastal redwoods and valley vineyards within a 25-mile radius. The region's Mediterranean climate features dry summers with temperatures ranging from 70-90°F and mild winters averaging 40-60°F. Winter campers should prepare for occasional heavy rains, while summer cabin guests will appreciate cool evening fog that rolls in from the bay.
What to do
Hiking trails at Mount Tamalpais: Steep Ravine Campground provides direct access to multiple trails. "Lots of great hiking in this area. The hiking trails that join from the coast all the way to Mill Valley and central Marin are walking distance from this site. Be warned though, the hiking is steep, really good hiking but bring good shoes and be sure that you are physically ready for a hard workout!" notes Patrick O.
Wine tasting from campgrounds: Ritchey Creek Campground serves as an affordable base for Napa Valley exploration. "During non-COVID times you can catch a wine bus from here!" shares Peter M. The campground is "Small, cozy campground located in the heart of wine country" according to Laura B., who adds it's a "Good option if you're doing Napa on a budget!"
Horseback riding: Near Olema, visitors can access guided trail rides. "I would highly recommend Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding," suggests Kathleen C. The ranch offers various trail options through coastal forests and meadows with rides suitable for beginners to experienced riders.
Oyster shucking: Coastal cabin access means fresh seafood opportunities. "Hog Island in Marshall (snag a picnic table and shuck your own oysters - definitely a highlight)" recommends Kathleen C., noting this activity can be combined with visits to "Cowgirl Creamery in Point Reyes Station" for a complete food experience.
What campers like
Cabins with wood-burning stoves: Steep Ravine Campground offers rustic oceanfront cabins that keep guests warm during foggy nights. "No electricity but the wood burning stove provides some light. Bring candles and lanterns and some fabric for curtains for privacy," advises Amber D.
Hot showers after outdoor activities: Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground provides coin-operated shower facilities. "Coin operated showers were also a treat (again, not the cleanest, but...)," notes Kathleen C., who appreciated this amenity after hiking and exploring.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Skyline Wilderness Park offers cabins with proximity to native wildlife. "Sites backs up to Wilderness and saw a doe within 10 mins of setting up camp just a few steps away," shares Leanne R. Another visitor, Adam B., reports regularly seeing "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers" at the park.
Accessibility to urban amenities: Cabin campers appreciate quick access to nearby towns. "It's a nice KOA close to Petaluma with great facilities. We took advantage of doing some laundry and having a hot shower," explains Kelsey L. This balance between rustic camping and urban conveniences appeals to many cabin campers in the region.
What you should know
Reservation timing requirements: Securing cabins requires advance planning. Patrick O. warns about Steep Ravine: "Be warned though, the hiking is steep, really good hiking but bring good shoes and be sure that you are physically ready for a hard workout!"
Cabin furnishings vary dramatically: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers well-equipped cabins with many comforts. "Great things for kids to be entertained by and enjoy for sure," notes Patrick J., while Katie B. details the extensive amenities: "Nice playground, basketball court, volleyball, bouncy pillow, outdoor movies, pool, lazy river, water park, bumper boats, laser tag, boat rentals on the delta, restaurants and quick bites."
Weather preparation essential: The coastal region experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "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," advises Patrick O.
Poison oak awareness: Several campgrounds report abundant poison oak. "The campgrounds were infested with poison oak. Maybe just the time of year and because of so much rain this year? Not sure but it was thick and lush everywhere," warns Samantha T. about Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park caters specifically to families with young children. "We go with several families with kids 5-13 and they all have a blast. The price per night is very expensive but there are a lot of amenities. Nice playground, basketball court, volleyball, bouncy pillow, outdoor movies, pool, lazy river, water park," explains Katie B.
Quieter camping options: For families seeking less crowded cabin experiences, timing matters. Robert S. notes, "The weekends usually are full, it clears out Sunday evening so during the weekdays it is really nice." This pattern holds true across most cabin campgrounds in the region.
Seasonal activities: Holiday periods feature special programming at some campgrounds. Billy shares, "For October, we did an outdoor movie, magic pumpkins, costume contest, trick or treating, hay ride, and haunted house. My daughter loved everything except the haunted house, which she said was 'too scary!'"
Educational opportunities: Several cabin campgrounds offer nature programs and historical sites. Kate L. recommends, "Take a walk to check out the Pioneer Cemetery and nearby mill" at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, adding that "St. Clement Vineyards is a fun stop on the way out of town and is kid-friendly."
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives for RVers: Del Valle Campground accommodates both cabin campers and RVs. "We camp with a 27' Travel Trailer and the campgrounds can accommodate it," notes Ed E., who appreciates the flexibility this offers families with mixed camping preferences.
Parking logistics: Some campgrounds with cabins have limited parking areas. "The camp sites were decently located. Above the Mendocino coast the mornings are wet and Cold," observes Katherine T., highlighting the need for RVers to plan for potential moisture affecting vehicle access.
RV hookup variability: Not all cabin campgrounds offer full hookups for those bringing RVs. Gustav H. explains, "Close to the Bay Area and probably one of the better options. It can get crowded over the weekends. Looks like they recently increased the price for campsites, which makes it easier to find/reserve a site."
Site selection strategy: When both cabins and RV sites are options, site location matters. Daniel M. advises, "Nice place for that. You can easily see into your neighbors site. There was a trail but it was not like the other campgrounds, more of a behind the scenes of the campground and other sites."
