Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground sits nestled among redwoods just 15 miles northwest of Sausalito. The campground ranges from 100-230 feet in elevation with year-round access despite seasonal fog and temperature shifts from 45-75°F depending on the season. Unlike the oceanfront cabins at Steep Ravine, this park offers both standard campsites and rustic cabins within a forested setting where temperatures drop significantly after sunset regardless of season.
What to do
Tidepooling and beach fires: At Coast Campground in Point Reyes National Seashore, campers can explore beach activities beyond hiking. "The beach offers tidepools close by as well as a great place for beach fire (permit needed)," notes MarinMaverick. The beach access requires just "minutes from the beach" as Elliot M. mentions, making it convenient for multiple beach trips during your stay.
Explore local towns: Olema Campground serves as a gateway to coastal communities. "You can drive to hwy 1 north to go eat oysters or seafood," suggests Filipino Jack T. The location offers easy access to nearby communities, as another camper notes, "There is a great restaurant down the road and a church next door!"
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds connect to expansive trail networks. At Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, visitors find "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," according to Joseph F. The paths feature "informational signs all over the place providing historical or ecological information."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Campers frequently mention site privacy as a significant factor. At Coast Campground, "The campsites go from surrounded by coyote brush to out in the open to secluded. I like the sites back in the valley as there is less wind or fog. That would be 13 and 14," shares MarinMaverick. Consider your preference when booking.
Family-friendly activities: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA receives praise for amenities beyond basic camping. As Amy notes, "My kids were able to swim after zoom/school and get their minds off of why we left home." Another visitor mentions the "cute petting zoo and a pool that was open during COVID!"
Weather variations: The coastal climate creates diverse experiences within short distances. At Bicentennial Campground, visitors can enjoy "Gorgeous sunset and sunrise from camp or even better up the closest hill which is a 6 minute walk tops," according to august M. The weather patterns around Point Reyes often include fog, as MarinMaverick advises, "Always expect fog. Expect cold and damp at night."
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Several glamping and camping locations near Sausalito require advance planning. For Bicentennial Campground, "You have to reserve ahead of time, No drive in access, unloading our staff was very big work," warns Jasim. The three sites "are next to each other and have no separation," adds august M.
Site selection strategy: Site locations significantly impact your experience. At Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground, "Sites 36-38 had no one across the way, more private, set back," according to Kathleen C. For Francis Beach specifically, "Site 3 is closest to the views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the trails connected to the campground," notes august M.
Wildlife encounters: The region hosts diverse wildlife, requiring proper food storage. Joseph F. warns about "lots of poison oak in the unmaintained areas and off the trails" at Samuel P. Taylor, while others mention raccoons, chipmunks and blue jays that were "NOT SHY but also not a harrowing issue." Bear boxes or secure food storage is essential at most campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
First-timer friendly parks: For families new to camping, Samuel P. Taylor offers a gentle introduction. "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," writes Susie B., though she cautions about inexperienced campers potentially causing noise issues.
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect family comfort significantly. At Coast Camp, one visitor reports, "During the day it actually got pretty hot at our campsite (#1), lots of exposure probably around low 70s. At night it did get chilly, 38-39 degrees F, nothing a good sleeping bag couldn't fix."
Playground access: Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground provides space for children to play while remaining close to facilities. "Short walk to the beach. You can walk for miles on the beach or on the bluff trails," notes Jill F. Olema Campground offers additional play areas with "a fenced playground, dog park," making it suitable for families with varied needs.
Tips from RVers
Space limitations: Many coastal campgrounds have tight spacing. At Skyline Wilderness Park, "The campground is zero frills - you pull into a gravel lot and you're about 12 feet from your neighbors," according to Moriah M., though she adds it has "friendly staff, amazing views, easy hookups, FREE showers and absolutely beautiful hikes that start right outside your door."
Hookup considerations: The quality of hookups varies across sites. San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA receives positive reviews with one camper noting, "The host says they will come around in the morning and empty our tanks! No need to hook up our sewer hose!" This convenience justifies the "premium price" for some RVers.
Check-in timing: RV campers should note park gate hours. Moriah M. advises, "I definitely recommend getting there well before the gates close because there were issues getting a hold of the camp host," though she received an email with gate code access when arriving just after 5pm.
