Cabin camping near Redwood City, California offers overnight options ranging from rustic to deluxe accommodations among coastal redwoods. Located on the San Francisco Peninsula with elevations ranging from sea level to 2,600 feet at the ridgelines, this region experiences cool morning fog and mild daytime temperatures typically between 50-70°F. Most cabins require advanced planning with some locations booking up to six months ahead.
What to do
Hiking among redwoods: Samuel P. Taylor State Park provides multiple trail options through old-growth redwood forests. "The paved path 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 one visitor to Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
Beach exploration: Cabins at Olema Campground provide access to Point Reyes National Seashore beaches. "If you want to explore the Point Reyes National Seashore you do not have many options. This facility has been there a long time, and while not the best, it gives you great access," says a camper about Olema Campground.
Family activities: Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA offers numerous organized events. "The resort also has great activities for kids that they occasionally bring on site, such as a climbing wall and nature talks with live animals," mentions a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly options.
Archery: Mount Madonna County Park maintains a dedicated archery range. "There is an archery trail with 28 targets on a trail through the woods. We were there 3 days in a row and did 20 of the 28. It's really pretty and a cool challenge," shares an enthusiastic archer who visited the park.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Campers at Del Valle Campground regularly spot local animals. "There was quite a bit of wildlife roaming through the park mainly in the early morning. I saw deer and turkeys roaming the campground," reports a visitor who appreciated the natural surroundings.
Redwood rainfall: The unique microclimate at Mount Madonna creates an interesting phenomenon. "This is the only place I've seen the redwood trees harvest the fog and make their own rain, which is pretty cool. In the morning it's raining under the redwood trees but not under the madrone or tan oak trees, which is wild," describes a camper at Mount Madonna County Park.
Ocean views: Cabins at Steep Ravine provide unmatched coastal panoramas. "For that, you get your own seaside cabin with million dollar views just 30 minutes north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Sleeping platforms for about 6 people split among 3 semi-private rooms," explains a visitor who stayed at the hard-to-reserve location.
Year-round accessibility: Many cabin facilities remain open throughout all seasons, allowing for winter getaways when tent camping would be uncomfortable. "The lack of cell reception really helps the feeling of being away from the city life," notes a camper who visited Del Valle during off-season.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Steep Ravine Campground cabins require extreme advance planning. "So 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," advises a visitor who successfully secured a cabin.
Temperature variations: Pack layers regardless of season, especially at higher elevations. "It is a lot colder here than on the valley floor. Prepare for it to be 40deg colder than Gilroy or San Jose. We weren't prepared & had to drive into town & buy more clothes!" warns a camper at Mount Madonna.
Wildlife precautions: Most cabin areas have active wildlife. "Raccoons, Chipmunks and Blue Jays were NOT SHY but also not a harrowing issue," notes one Samuel P. Taylor visitor, while another mentioned, "Lots of turkey and deer in the area."
Cabin supplies: Many facilities provide basic furnishings but require visitors to bring specific items. "Seating. Bring your camp chairs. The cabins have fixed sleeping platforms, a built-in table, and two hard wooden benches. If you want to sit close to the wood stove or just lounge comfortably inside or out, it's DIY," advises a Steep Ravine cabin user.
Tips for camping with families
Close-to-home option: For Bay Area families, Samuel P. Taylor offers convenient access. "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," shares a repeat visitor to Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly amenities: Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA provides extensive family facilities. "This is a great camp ground for families as well as seniors! We attended a presentation on the wild birds in the area that an employee provided, and then he took us on a hike through Costanoa and over to the ocean. Observed great activities for kids!" reports an enthusiastic grandparent.
Biking opportunities: Several parks offer safe areas for children to practice cycling skills. "Great campground for the kids to bike at but there are a few big hills so make sure they know how to use their brakes," advises a parent who visited Mount Madonna with children.
Creek exploration: Seasonal water features provide natural play areas. "The campground has a creek that runs through it that the kids loved playing in all day. The slugs were hanging out in trees all around us and it was so much fun looking for them," notes a family that visited Big Basin before its closure.
Tips from RVers
Space considerations: Cotillion Gardens RV Park sites can be challenging for larger units. "Sites are a little tight but worth being nestled in the redwoods. Lots of hiking and exploring right from the campsite," explains an RV camper who stayed with young children.
Site selection: Choose outer loop sites at some parks for more privacy. "While the sites are a little close to each other, those on the outside of the loop had a great deal of privacy. Inner loop sites have none, but would be great if you were camping with friends," recommends an RVer at Mount Madonna.
Dump station access: Free facilities exist at certain locations. "The RV sites have both water and electric hookups which was great! There is a very convenient FREE dump station just inside the entrance to the park that we used as we departed," notes a visitor to Mount Madonna who appreciated the convenience.
Weather preparation: Coastal parks experience significant temperature swings. "It can get windy. Bolinas, Stinson, The Farallon Islands, fishing boats, the night sky, raptors, seals, all manner of water fowl...that's why you're here," shares a cabin camper at Steep Ravine, highlighting both challenges and rewards of coastal cabin camping.
