San Rafael camping areas sit between 20 and 1,500 feet elevation in Marin County, with most campgrounds located within 30 minutes of the city. The region experiences Mediterranean climate patterns with dry summers and mild, wet winters. Temperatures typically range from 45°F overnight to 75°F during summer days, with coastal fog common in mornings.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls near Point Reyes: Wildcat Camp offers access to Alamere Falls via a scenic beach walk. "A mile or so before you get to camp there is a side trail to the left for Alamere Falls. Watch out! I've gotten ticks and poison oak here, and the route down to the beach is perilous. Better to dump your pack at camp and walk up the beach. So beautiful!" says Valerie T. about Wildcat Campground.
Ferry to San Francisco: Camp near ferry access for day trips without driving. "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. about staying near transportation.
Horseback riding in Olema: Five Brooks Ranch offers trail rides through Point Reyes National Seashore. "I would highly recommend Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding," suggests Kathleen C. from Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground. "The win on this campground is how close it is to Point Reyes National Seashore, San Rafael, Olema, Novato and Marshall."
What campers like
Beach access with privacy: Coastal camping spots provide oceanfront views with varying levels of seclusion. "We had an excellent view of the city and the bridge. There are only five sites at this campground so you will be secluded. Carry in water and firewood," writes Nick M. about Kirby Cove Campground.
Unique island camping experience: "There are only 10 sites on the island and being so accessible from the San Francisco Bay Area (only a ferry ride away from Pier 39), you can see why it is in so high demand. The upside of being patient with how far out you make your reservation is that once the last ferry leaves, you have the island practically to yourself," shares Bryan R.
Redwood groves at affordable rates: "Nice shady retreat in beautiful redwoods. We have previously tent camped and car camped here and we really enjoy it. It can get warm in the summer, but the cool moist ocean fog comes in and blankets the area in the evenings, which can really cool it down," mentions Joseph F. about camping among the trees.
What you should know
Campground noise varies dramatically: Some campgrounds near roads experience traffic sounds. "Beautiful campground but close to the road. 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. If you're tent camping, the vehicle noise from the nearby Sir Francis Drake Blvd can be distracting if you are a light sleeper," advises Tai W.
Wildlife interaction requires preparation: "The raccoons are vicious and fearless. Store all food and ANYTHING with a scent in the bear box. If you plan to leave your cooler outside of the bear box make sure it has a lock or secure latch," warns Gregory R. about Steep Ravine Campground. Similar wildlife issues exist at most campgrounds in the region.
Seasonal water restrictions: "On our first visit, there was no running water or showers, but they did have portapotties. On our second visit, water was available, but it was not potable, and the showers and toilets were still not working," reports Joseph F. about conditions that can change seasonally.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with play areas: "We spent a comfortable night here on our way through the Bay Area. Very convenient location," mentions Chris N. about Marin RV Park, which offers amenities for children.
Look for first-timer friendly options: "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. about Taylor State Park as an entry point for new campers.
Consider booking weekdays: "We've been lucky enough to score one of these cabins twice by checking in every so often to see if someone cancelled a reservation," shares Alana C. about finding availability when weekend spots are filled.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access at some parks: "It's a bit too tight for large trailer or RV camping (unless you are an expert at maneuvering through tight spaces)," cautions Tai W. about space limitations at some of the best places to camp near San Rafael, California.
Use commercial RV parks as base camps: "30 mins away from the City. A bit pricy but that is to be expected in SF. Clean facilities but make no mistake about it... this is a parking lot with hook ups and the sites are in arms length in proximity to each other. It is well worth it as one can be in the city within 30mins," advises Raf A. about San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
Check dump station availability: Many campgrounds don't offer full RV services. "The host says they will come around in the morning and empty our tanks! No need to hook up our sewer hose!" notes Patrick M. about premium RV sites in the area, though this isn't standard at most campgrounds.
