Samuel P. Taylor State Park sits among redwood groves 20 miles northwest of Ross at an elevation of 300 feet. The area features a combination of coastal fog and mild temperatures throughout the year, with summer daytime highs averaging 75-85°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 40°F. The park's mature redwoods create a natural sound barrier that helps muffle nearby road noise.
What to do
Hiking to Muir Woods: Access hiking trails directly from Pantoll Campground that connect to Muir Woods without needing shuttle reservations. "From Pantoll you have very easy access to the summit of Mt. Tamalpais, easy access Stinson Beach and the coast, plus you can even skip the long lines and shuttles to get into Muir Woods," notes Michael I.
Beach explorations: Walk to the beach from Coast Campground within Point Reyes National Seashore. "The beach was sandy and beautiful, not that many people around," shares Char A., who experienced temperatures ranging from daytime highs of 70°F to nighttime lows of 38-39°F during a February visit.
Local food destinations: Visit nearby restaurants when staying at Olema Campground. "Walked to Due West for an excellent dinner. That is what I call Glamping! The next morning we hit the little store at Due West before our hike for coffee and pastries," writes Maureen F., highlighting the convenience of having dining options within walking distance of camp.
What campers like
Morning wildlife watching: Early risers at Skyline Wilderness Park often spot native animals. "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!" reports Adam B., who also noted cell phone coverage with "at least 2-3 bars. 10-12 Mbps down 4-5 Mbps up" for those needing connectivity.
Ferry access to San Francisco: When staying at Marin RV Park, campers appreciate the proximity to public transportation. "A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown San Francisco," explains Jeff T., who spent a week using primarily public transportation to explore the city.
Seasonal tidepools: Coast Camp offers marine exploration opportunities. "The beach offers tidepools close by as well as a great place for beach fire (permit needed)," explains MarinMaverick, who recommends the sites "back in the valley as there is less wind or fog. That would be 13 and 14."
What you should know
Site selection strategy: At Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, certain sites offer more privacy and better features. "Had I chosen the site to my left, or a few more down the road, I would have barely noticed them at all - sites 47-44 had no one across the way, more private, set back," advises Kathleen C., who specifically recommends "site 44. Just trust me on this."
Wind and temperature fluctuations: Prepare for significant temperature changes, especially at higher elevations. "The wind chill is real at night!" warns Samantha T. about Pantoll Campground, noting that when fire restrictions prohibit stoves or fires, the lack of heat sources can make nights uncomfortable.
Food storage requirements: Wildlife activity requires careful food management at most dog friendly campgrounds near Ross. "Raccoons, Chipmunks and Blue Jays were NOT SHY but also not a harrowing issue," notes Kathleen C. about Samuel P. Taylor, while Samantha T. mentions "lots of raccoons at night, so lock everything away" at Pantoll Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly option: Samuel P. Taylor State Park serves as an excellent introduction to camping. "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," explains Susie B.
Rainy day alternatives: The Petaluma KOA offers indoor options when weather doesn't cooperate. "My kids were able to swim after zoom/school and get their minds off of why we left home," shares Amy, who appreciated the amenities during an evacuation from nearby fires.
Dog exercise areas: For pet-friendly campgrounds near Ross with active dogs, Olema Campground offers a designated pet area. "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," lists Eric D.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: At Samuel P. Taylor, Joseph F. notes the "sites appear to be your standard state park equipment with a fire pit, a picnic table and a lockable pantry. The parking area for our site was large enough to accommodate our SUV and another vehicle." However, he cautions about solar power limitations: "Because of the amazing redwood canopy, it might be hard to get good sun for solar in most of the sites."
Easy city exploration: When visiting San Francisco, RVers recommend H. Dana Bower Rest Area. "We arrived around 5:30pm, and were able to park for the night... It's a very busy overlook for the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and the San Francisco Bay," explains Reed G., adding "it's a great place to stop for a night if you're in the SF area."
Hookup access: For those requiring full hookups, Skyline Wilderness Park offers convenience near Napa. "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa," explains Rich J., who found the sites to be "semi-level" with bathrooms that "could use some TLC."
Guide
