Samuel P. Taylor State Park features camping accommodations nestled among towering redwoods along Lagunitas Creek, just 15 miles from Ross, California. The park's campground sits at approximately 150 feet elevation in a cool, shaded valley that stays 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding areas during summer months. Winter temperatures drop to the low 40s at night with seasonal creek access restrictions during salmon spawning season from spring through mid-summer.
What to do
Creek exploration: Lagunitas Creek runs through Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, offering shallow water access when not restricted for salmon spawning. "The 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.
Tide pool discovery: Low tide access at Coast Campground provides marine ecosystem viewing. "The beach offers tidepools close by as well as a great place for beach fire (permit needed)," explains MarinMaverick. Coast Camp is located in Point Reyes National Seashore with ocean access just minutes away.
Stargazing: Astronomy programs at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park include guided night hikes. "We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time! You can walk to the Robert Ferguson Observatory as well," reports Syd D. The park's elevation provides clearer night viewing than fog-prone coastal sites.
Hiking: Trail networks interconnect many campgrounds. "From the campground you can easily hike 20 miles around the park. There are a handful of great loop options and a few great out and backs too," writes Michael I. about Sugarloaf Ridge. Most trails range from easy meadow walks to challenging climbs with 900+ feet elevation gain.
What campers like
Private sites with tree coverage: Rob Hill Campground offers group camping in the heart of San Francisco's Presidio. "Stumbled across this campground by accident as we were hiking around The Presidio. It was quite the hidden gem set amidst a stunning cypress and eucalyptus grove," shares Elliott B. Each site accommodates up to 30 people.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The campgrounds near Ross feature diverse animal sightings. "We had a gorgeous grey fox visit our camp! We had a ton of shade and enough sun to warm up," writes Syd D. about Sugarloaf Ridge. Common wildlife includes deer, woodpeckers, wild turkeys, and occasional marine mammals along coastal sites.
Temperature variability: Coastal fog creates distinct microclimates. "It can get warm in the summer, but the cool moist ocean fog comes in and blankets the area in the evenings, which can really cool it down," explains Joseph F. about Samuel P. Taylor. Inland sites like Sugarloaf Ridge experience temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night.
Historical features: Many campgrounds preserve regional history. "There are all kinds of trails available, as well as 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," writes Joseph F. Informational signs throughout the parks document ecological and human history.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Securing sites at popular campgrounds requires advance planning. For Steep Ravine Campground, "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," advises Adam.
Wildlife precautions: Prepare for encounters with local fauna. "Also, lots of poison oak in the unmaintained areas and off the trails, so be aware," cautions Joseph F. about Samuel P. Taylor. Rattlesnakes appear frequently on sunny trails at Sugarloaf Ridge during summer months.
Weather preparation: Coastal fog creates unpredictable conditions. "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers," recommends Kathleen C. Temperature differences of 20+ degrees can occur between nearby campgrounds.
Noise considerations: Proximity to roads affects some sites. "If you're tent camping, the vehicle noise from the nearby Sir Francis Drake Blvd can be distracting if you are a light sleeper," notes Tai W. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park. Check campground maps for sites furthest from roads.
Tips for camping with families
Novice-friendly options: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers extensive amenities for first-time campers. "This campground is clearly a getaway from the more congested parts of the area. Cute petting zoo and a pool that was open during COVID! We didn't stay long enough for sure," explains Marnie G.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger-led programs. "The CAP program, which provides youth with meaningful camping experiences. Through this 'train the trainer' program, the leaders of schools and community organizations are given the skills to bring groups of kids to explore the Presidio's outdoors," details Elliott B. about Rob Hill Campground.
Activity planning: Family-friendly amenities vary by location. "Great things for kids to be entertained by and enjoy for sure. We were passing through and I think we would have been better served elsewhere," notes Patrick J. about San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA, highlighting the need to match campground features with family preferences.
Site selection strategy: Research specific site numbers before booking. "We were in an RV Bay with Power Hookup. Clean toilets and bathrooms. The showers were hot and had decent water pressure," shares Thomas R. about Olema Campground, while other reviewers note tent sites can be less defined at the same location.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Olema Campground provides full service sites near Point Reyes. "Has numerous amenities including hot (free) showers (cleaned daily), flush toilets, full hookup RV spots, laundromat, US Post office, fenced playground, dog park, drive in tent sites, and firewood for sale," explains Eric D.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in privacy and space. "Some non reserved available when we arrived. PO, laundromat, toilets and showers. Volleyball nets and shuffleboard courts," notes Maria M. about Olema Campground, where sites accommodate varying RV sizes.
Glamping alternatives near Ross: Several campgrounds offer cabin options for luxury camping close to Ross, California. "The host says they will come around in the morning and empty our tanks! No need to hook up our sewer hose!" shares Patrick M. about San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA's VIP service.
Location convenience: Proximity to attractions varies. "This facility has been there a long time, and while not the best, it gives you great access. It is mostly used for RV's some appear to be year round residents," notes MarinMaverick about Olema Campground's strategic position as gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore.
