Mount Tamalpais State Park's Steep Ravine Campground requires careful planning for an optimal experience. Reservations must be confirmed 24 hours in advance to get the gate code, or you'll face access issues, especially for late arrivals. The 10 primitive cabins are positioned along the hillside, with sites closer to the parking area offering easier access. A dedicated host lives on-site year-round, maintaining the facilities and providing firewood for purchase through an honor system.
What to do
Trail exploration after rain: In winter months after rainfall, the area's natural hot springs become visible during extremely low tides. According to a visitor at Steep Ravine Campground, "I'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."
Beach access at lower elevations: Visitors at cabins closer to the beach can easily walk down to access the shoreline. A camper notes, "My second childhood home and one of the most sacred places I have had the blessings to be apart of, know my own children's second home. The campgrounds are amazing and a world unto themselves."
Wildlife observation: Coast Campground in Point Reyes National Seashore offers excellent opportunities for tidepooling and animal watching. "The beach offers tidepools close by as well as a great place for beach fire (permit needed). There are two routes to hike in. I prefer the longer Coast Trail (about half a mile longer) rather than the fireroad for its scenic beauty."
What campers like
Varied sleeping arrangements: The cabins at Steep Ravine offer flexible accommodations. One visitor mentioned, "There is a separate bedroom, you could sleep 2 couples on beds easily with extra floor space and a small individual bunk for larger families."
Proximity to attractions: Skyline Wilderness Park provides convenient glamping near San Francisco with access to Napa Valley. A camper explains, "Easy drive to the wineries of Napa Valley, a little further to Sonoma but a nice drive. Picnic table, some full hook-ups and some partial."
Accessibility of walk-in sites: Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground offers walk-in sites with ocean proximity. "Lucky to have good weather and limited wind. Beautiful walk in site (about 200 feet from car). Other sites were crowded (more of a parking lot) but amazing location with access to beach. If you can get sites 36-38 go for it!"
What you should know
Mouse management: Bring or use provided mouse traps at Steep Ravine cabins. A camper advised, "You'll need them. You'd think staying in a cabin would elevate the camping experience a bit, but frankly, this brought things down a couple notches. In two days, I caught three and actually had to buy more traps."
Seasonal considerations: Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground experiences significant temperature fluctuations. A visitor warned, "The night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers."
Pack-in necessities: For glamping comfort at Steep Ravine, bring specific items to enhance basic facilities. "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."
Tips for camping with families
Campground etiquette awareness: Samuel P. Taylor State Park attracts many first-time campers from the city. A repeat visitor observed, "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."
Kid-friendly amenities: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers extensive activities for children. "Had a blast here. A lot of different areas for the kids. Swimming, giant bounce area, and mild weather. Coffee bar, large play grounds and near shopping for any needs."
Alternative tent options: Consider tent sites instead of cabins for shorter stays. "If you're a small party that just wants a couple days with the gorgeous oceanfront views and location, stay at the tent sites, not the cabins. You won't sleep with one eye open waiting for the mousetraps to pop."
Tips for RVers
RV site limitations: Olema Campground offers RV sites that are arranged in cul-de-sacs. A camper noted, "Lovely large meadow with scattered trees. RC/van spots are arranged in cul de sacs, tent spots on the edges of fields. Somewhat noisy - kids, dogs, radios - but settled down by 9. Friendly vibe."
Check-in timing: Arrive before gate closing hours at campgrounds near San Francisco. "Short drive to hwy 1 north to go eat oysters or seafood, very friendly staff and neighbors... would be back again."
Hookup accessibility: At many sites, prepare for challenging hookup access. One RVer at Steep Ravine mentioned, "Easier to keep clean, and I find cooking outside to be less of a hassle and easier to clean up than doing it inside the cabin where there isn't any water, sink, or spillage containment solution."
