Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground offers redwood-shaded camping just 5 miles west of San Geronimo, California. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-75°F with frequent morning fog and cooler evening temperatures. The park features both creekside and hillside camping options with varied sun exposure depending on site location.
What to do
Explore Point Reyes National Seashore: Located near Olema Campground, this protected coastline offers diverse hiking and wildlife viewing. "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," notes one camper at Olema.
Visit local wineries: Within a short drive of glamping sites near San Geronimo, several Sonoma wine tasting opportunities await. At Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground, "This place is super cool. The campground itself is pretty cool. So many selections to choose from... We hit the little store at Due West before our hike for coffee and pastries. The perfect little get away, close to home."
Try horseback riding: Equestrian trails provide another way to experience the landscape. "I would highly recommend Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding, Hog Island in Marshall (snag a picnic table and shuck your own oysters - definitely a highlight) and Cowgirl Creamery in Point Reyes Station," suggests a visitor to Samuel P. Taylor.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Campsite selection can significantly impact your experience. A visitor to Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground recommends specific sites: "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... if I returned I would snag site 44. Just trust me on this."
Nighttime temperature management: The climate requires preparation as nights get cool even during summer. "Can get very windy! Georgeous spot to pitch your tent on the ocean cliffs. Unique and wonderful place to camp. Lots of space between you and other campers. Wear layers of clothing," advises a camper at Steep Ravine Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Many visitors appreciate animal sightings. "Wildlife is off the hook...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," shares an enthusiastic camper describing their glamping experience near San Geronimo at Steep Ravine.
What you should know
Weather microclimates: The area experiences significant climate variations over short distances. At Coast Campground, a camper advises: "Always expect fog. Expect cold and damp at night."
Reservation challenges: Popular sites require advance planning. "Extremely hard to get a reservation. Can get very windy!" notes a Steep Ravine visitor, while another adds, "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."
Mouse issues in cabins: Those booking glamping cabins near San Geronimo should prepare accordingly. "There were several brand new mouse traps provided at the entrance to my cabin. You'll need them... In two days, I caught three and actually had to buy more traps," reports one Steep Ravine cabin guest.
Tips for camping with families
Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Some locations are particularly suited for children. "And 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," notes a visitor to Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Pack for variable conditions: Weather can change quickly, especially with children. At San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA, a camper shares: "My family checked in from just a 30 minute drive from our home due to evacuations taking place in Santa Rosa due to fires. Petaluma KOA told us to head on in and check in with no minimum night stay... My kids were able to swim after zoom/school and get their minds off of why we left home."
Seek out amenities for kids: Some glamping sites near San Geronimo offer child-specific features. "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," explains a visitor to San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose locations with sufficient maneuvering room. At Olema Campground, an RVer advises: "It is mostly used for RV's some appear to be year round residents. I am a tent camper and there are tent camping sites. They are on a grassy area and not well defined. Not a lot of shade for tent sites."
Expect tight conditions: Many RV parks maximize space utilization. "The streets all very tight for RV maneuvering. The place was packed. Had a pull through FHU site. Pretty narrow. Seems like a common theme," notes a visitor to San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA, though they add the park is "clean, quiet and there's a few trails that take you to the Beach."
