Campgrounds near San Anselmo, California range from sea level spots along the coast to inland sites at elevations up to 1,500 feet in Mount Tamalpais State Park. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-60°F with increased rainfall from November through March. Mornings often start with low clouds that burn off by midday, creating microclimates throughout the region's camping areas.
What to do
Explore beach access points: At Wildcat Campground, you're just yards from beach access with a short walk to Alamere Falls. "The hike in was somewhat lengthy but the views make it seem far less daunting. The sites are somewhat close together, but the whole vibe of the campground and other people there was so chill," notes Sara S.
Discover historical structures: The Kirby Cove Campground area includes Battery Kirby which you pass on the way to the beach. "You can't find a better spot to see the Golden Gate bridge and the SF city skyline! The weather is almost always chilly in the evening and night so be prepared with jackets and GOOD sleeping bags," advises Patrick O.
Visit local attractions: From Olema Campground, you can easily access nearby towns. "We 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. The perfect little get away, close to home," shares Maureen F.
What campers like
Morning solitude: Early risers at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground appreciate the peaceful setting. "It is a great camping spot other than a frequented road being so close causing a lot of highway sounds. But the fire pits are wicked stone grills and would be a lot of fun to cook on," mentions Tristyn B.
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently spot local fauna throughout the area campgrounds. "We've seen deer in the seaside vernal pools, wild miniature ocean bunnies boxing in the morning sunshine, and a great white shark off the cliffs one fine day," shares Nikata L. about her experience at Steep Ravine Campground.
Trail connections: Many sites offer direct access to popular hiking networks. "Pantoll is a pretty campground located adjacent to the entrance to Mount Tamalpais. You can hike to, bike to, take the bus to, or even drive to this campground," explains Erin S., noting it's only "3 miles to Muir Woods in less than 3 miles."
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Competition for sites can be fierce, especially at Steep Ravine Campground. "These 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," warns Adam.
Weather preparation: The coastal influence creates significant temperature swings. "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers," advises Kathleen C.
Campsite proximity: Many campgrounds feature sites close together with limited privacy. "Sites are fairly close together in bunches (for example, 2, 3, and 5 were close, 6 and 7 were close, but there was a bit of space between the groups)," explains Erin S. about Pantoll Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose family-friendly amenities: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers extensive recreation options. "Playgrounds, swimming pool, lots of space to run and scream. We stay when visiting the area and endure the screaming kids. The kids do have fun, I give them that," shares Linda A.
Prepare for noise levels: Some campgrounds have more family commotion than others. "We camped here for three nights over Fourth of July holiday (site 52). Because of the holiday and the proximity to Oakland/San Fran, the campground was in FULL EFFECT with a gang of variant families camp site hopping," reports Kathleen C.
Consider first-time campers: Samuel P. Taylor State Park works well for introducing children to outdoor experiences. "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.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campsites in the region aren't designed for larger rigs. "Love this campground... a great basecamp for easy access to everything that West Marin has to offer. It has wonderful campsites nestled among mature trees with a stream that runs through it. It's a bit too tight for large trailer or RV camping (unless you are an expert at maneuvering through tight spaces)," warns Tai W.
Urban camping options: Marin RV Park serves as a convenient base for city exploration. "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," explains Jeff T., noting they "only drove when we wanted the experience driving down Lombard St and driving across the Golden Gate Bridge."
Site preparation: RV sites tend to be functional rather than scenic. "For what this RV park is designed to be, it is done very well. It's a parking lot with full hookups strategically located to public transit direct to San Francisco. It's surprisingly quiet for being in a semi industrial area right next to the 101," shares David M.
