Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground sits west of Sausalito, tucked among redwood groves at 350 feet elevation in the coastal mountains. The park experiences typical coastal fog patterns with morning mist often clearing by midday, though nighttime temperatures can drop below 50°F even in summer months. Winter camping requires warm gear as temperatures regularly fall to the 40s with rainfall between November and March.
What to do
Creek exploration: 3-mile hike: Follow Lagunitas Creek at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground on the paved path that used to be an old railroad line. "There are all kinds of trails available, as well as 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," reports Joseph F.
Oyster shucking: 15-minute drive: Visit Marshall from Olema Campground for fresh seafood. "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 Kathleen C.
Ferry rides with pets: 10-minute walk: From Marin RV Park, access San Francisco via ferry with your dog. "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," notes Jeff T.
What campers like
First-come sites: morning arrival: At Pantoll Campground, arrive early to secure walk-in tent spots. "On a weekend night in March, only four of the 16 sites were taken so we had no problem nabbing a spot. The campground is situated across a steep-ish hillside," shares Erin S.
Wildlife watching: dawn/dusk hours: Observe local fauna at Anthony Chabot Regional Park. "We love Anthony Chabot! The eucalyptus groves make the air smell wonderful, and there is so much wildlife to see (deer, turkeys, owls, etc.)," reports Amanda P.
Free overnight parking: after 8pm: The H. Dana Bower Rest Area offers budget-friendly parking with views. "Rocked up at around 8pm, pretty busy at least 10 other vans and rvs there for the night. Couple of food vendors, great view of Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz," says Luke N.
What you should know
Weather patterns: bring layers: Coastal temperature changes are dramatic and unpredictable. "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers," advises Kathleen C.
Trail restrictions for dogs: Most Mt. Tamalpais trails prohibit pets. "Hiking options for dogs remain limited on Mount Tamalpais as most trails prohibit pets, but leashed dogs are welcome on paved roads within the parks."
Creek access limitations: At Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, seasonal creek restrictions protect spawning. "Access to the creek is seasonally restricted for spawning, and I believe that goes from spring to about mid June or July," notes Joseph F.
Poison oak awareness: Stay on designated paths to avoid this common irritant. "Also, lots of poison oak in the unmaintained areas and off the trails, so be aware," warns Joseph F.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites 47-44 at Samuel P. Taylor for quieter family camping. "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," recommends Kathleen C.
Beach access camping: reserve sites 36-38: At Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground, specific sites offer prime beach views. "If you can get sites 36-38 go for it! Tent only for these sites," suggests Theresa N.
Dog-friendly beach alternatives: When camping with pets, nearby Poplar Beach allows dogs. "No dogs allowed in the beach in the park but a short walk away there is a public beach that is dog friendly, so that was nice for our doggo," shares Michell C.
Tips from RVers
RV sizing constraints: 30 feet max: Many campgrounds have tight turns and limited space. "It's a bit too tight for large trailer or RV camping (unless you are an expert at maneuvering through tight spaces)," explains Tai W. about Samuel P. Taylor.
Ferry access strategy: park at station: When visiting San Francisco from Marin RV Park, use the ferry station parking. "We parked the RV at the ferry station and where able to enjoy a day of San Francisco without worrying about the RV," recommends Luc M.
Security patrols at free overnight areas: The H. Dana Bower Rest Area offers security throughout night. "Very safe, police patrols throughout the day/night," reports Steinar G., making this a reliable option for pet-friendly camping near Sausalito.
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