Cabin camping near San Mateo, California offers forest retreats within driving distance of the bay. Located in areas ranging from sea level to 2,000+ feet elevation, these sites experience significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Coastal cabin locations can drop 15-20°F after sunset even in summer months, requiring appropriate gear and planning.
What to do
Hiking at Big Basin: Access multiple trail systems directly from the campground including the popular trail to Sempervirens Falls. "We stayed here for a few nights and thought it was clean and spacious. Close to the visitor center. We did some hiking as well, a popular and short hike is to Sempervirens Falls," notes Queenie M. from Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
Beach exploration: From the cabins at Mount Tamalpais, walk approximately a mile to Stinson Beach for swimming and beachcombing. "It's also a great base camp for exploring Bolinas and the Pt. Reyes area by vehicle," shares a camper who appreciates the location's convenience.
Wildlife viewing: Many cabin areas offer opportunities to see local fauna in natural settings. "We saw deer and turkeys roaming the campground," reports Uriel S. from Del Valle Campground, adding that "the lack of cell reception really helps the feeling of being away from the city life."
Creek exploration: At Samuel Taylor State Park, cabin campers can enjoy the seasonal creek that runs through the campground. "There is also 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," notes Joseph F., highlighting the historical elements of the park.
What campers like
Forest immersion: The redwood setting creates a distinct camping experience at several locations. "Big trees, scenic hikes, waterfalls (in the spring) and spacious sites... what's not to like?" enthuses Tai W. from Big Basin Redwoods State Park, though she advises camping in spring or fall if you're prone to mosquito bites.
Ocean proximity: Cabins at Steep Ravine offer unmatched coastal access. "Bolinas, Stinson, The Farallon Islands, fishing boats, the night sky, raptors, seals, all manner of water fowl…that's why you're here," explains a frequent visitor who recommends bringing binoculars and a good camera.
Playground facilities: Many cabin locations include amenities for children. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, "there is a pool, hiking trails, a little river. So beautiful and peaceful here," says Ariya B., while another visitor mentions the "clubhouse with foosball, ping pong and arcade games which is open from 9am - 9pm."
Dining options: Some cabin sites offer proximity to restaurants. At Olema Campground, campers appreciate the convenient food access: "If you don't want to cook there are 2 restaurants next door," notes Chris M., while another visitor mentioned walking to Due West restaurant for "an excellent dinner" and "fantastic cocktails."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Cabins at popular locations require advance planning. For Steep Ravine Campground, a camper advises: "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."
Temperature variations: Coastal cabin locations experience significant cooling after dark. "It can get cold at night in the redwoods so the wood stove was great at night," explains Kim P. regarding Big Basin's cabins. Similarly, a Mount Tamalpais visitor cautions: "Bring layers of functional clothes since the weather on the coast of the SF bay can be anything from roasting to foggy frigid cold during the day and night year round."
Pest management: Mice can be an issue in some cabin locations. A Steep Ravine visitor reports: "There were several brand new mouse traps provided at the entrance to my cabin. You'll need them."
Cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between locations. At Cotillion Gardens, a visitor reports "no AT&T service for me, but free WiFi was available so it was fine," while Del Valle offers "the lack of cell reception" which one camper appreciated as it "really helps the feeling of being away from the city life."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA provides extensive facilities for children. "This is a great camp ground for families as well as seniors! Observed great activities for kids!" notes Dave. Another visitor mentions, "The resort also has great activities for kids that they occasionally bring on site, such as a climbing wall and nature talks with live animals."
Site selection: For family cabin camping, choosing the right location is crucial. At Samuel Taylor State Park, a visitor recommends sites 44-47 as "more private, set back" and specifically advises: "If I returned I would snag site 44. Just trust me on this. Most of the sites are pretty decent, but 44 was the best."
Food storage: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions. "The sites are a decent size with lots of trees to climb on, hide in, and play on," notes Kim P. about Big Basin, though other campers mention encounters with raccoons and other wildlife that necessitate secure food storage.
Activity packing: Bringing appropriate entertainment enhances the experience. For Cotillion Gardens, Jessica R. observes that "there were lots of kids around using the playground, bicycling, playing basketball, and swimming in the pool."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: At some locations, space constraints affect larger vehicles. Skyline Wilderness Park offers "RV campsites [that] are close together and semi-level," according to Rich J. Another camper notes that the bathrooms "could use some TLC" but appreciates that "the park is nice with lots of hiking, views and close to Napa."
Full hookup availability: Different locations offer varying levels of amenities. At Skyline Wilderness Park, Lori H. notes "some full hook-ups and some partial, we will ask for full hook ups next time just for ease of getting out when you're ready to go."
Accessibility issues: Some cabin and RV areas have challenging access roads. About Del Valle Campground, one visitor mentions that "it's a bit too tight for large trailer or RV camping (unless you are an expert at maneuvering through tight spaces)."
Weather preparation: RVers need to account for temperature fluctuations. One Steep Ravine visitor advises: "Wind! It's typically windy in this area most afternoons from May to September. Between those months, there's always a chance of rain."
