Tent camping near Stinson Beach, California involves dealing with temperature fluctuations between 45-65°F, even during summer months. The area's Mediterranean climate creates dry summers and wet winters, with seasonal fog patterns affecting coastal camping experiences from June through August. Fog typically rolls in during late afternoon and clears by mid-morning, creating distinct temperature zones between coastal and inland sites.
What to do
Sunrise hikes to Mount Wittenberg: Start early from Sky Campground for an elevated coastal view. "We hiked around the island and explored a couple cool areas... Lots of old buildings to explore, in addition to the awesome views of the San Francisco Bay Area from the various vista points and beaches around the island," notes a camper who explored similar terrain.
Beach walking to Alamere Falls: A 3.2 kilometer (2.0 mile) round-trip walk from Wildcat Campground offers waterfall views with fewer crowds in the morning. "The site was very close to Alamere Falls, which was great," reports one camper who appreciated the proximity. Another mentions, "don't miss walking down to the falls!"
Tide pool exploration: Access extensive marine life viewing opportunities at low tide near Coast Campground. "The beach offers tidepools close by as well as a great place for beach fire (permit needed)," notes a regular visitor. Morning and evening low tides typically provide the best viewing conditions.
What campers like
Secluded spots away from crowds: At Glen Campground, site 8 offers privacy. "Site 8 was a little bit secluded and away from other sites. The site was smallish and had a fox box and picnic table," shares one camper. Another notes, "Most individual sites are well-screened by shrubs and trees."
Ridgeline camping views: Elevated spots provide sweeping vistas. "We chose to stay two nights and had a great time exploring the surrounding hiking trails - a personal favourite was Alamere Falls," reports a visitor to Sky Campground. Another camper mentioned, "You are in the Point Reyes National Seashore up on a ridge. Beautiful views when there is no fog - but expect fog."
Protection from coastal winds: Pantoll Campground offers shelter within forested areas. "Sites up the hill require a bit of a hike-in but are farther from the road noise and busy parking lot," notes a recent visitor. "It was really windy but up above in the trees so our tent wasn't blowing away," confirms another camper.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Securing spots requires planning. "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," explains a Steep Ravine Campground visitor. Another notes, "This place is absolutely fabulous....and we didn't even get into the mermaid hot springs gracing the beaches during super low tides!"
Wildlife interactions: Prepare for local animal encounters. "There are owls perched in eucalyptus trees next to the campsite, and coyotes. Came across one on the way back from a sunset hike to the beach," reports a Haypress Campground camper. "Be on the lookout for small vermin running around the fields and looking to snag any food you've left out."
Site spacing limitations: Expect variable privacy between locations. "Campsites have space between them so you do feel alone," notes one Sky Campground visitor, while another Haypress camper explains, "There is very little privacy between sites but the couple times I have been here it was not full." Many campgrounds feature closely spaced sites in open meadows.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking routes: Look for shorter access trails. "This was our first backpacking trip and we mostly wanted to test our gear. This was perfect for that. 5-mile hike in with some uphill in the last 1.5 miles that was challenging but not too hard," reports a Glen Campground visitor. Site 3 was noted as "relatively private, shady in the morning and evening."
Protected campsite selection: Choose wind-sheltered spots with younger campers. "Coast camp is a favorite get away. In the Point Reyes National Seashore it is in a valley that is minutes from the beach," writes a regular visitor. "I like the sites back in the valley as there is less wind or fog. That would be 13 and 14."
Water access planning: Bring adequate supplies or locate reliable sources. "Neither the parking lot nor the campground had running water, so come prepared unless you want to drive into town," warns a Haypress Campground visitor. "No water. We backpacked in from the Golden Gate Bridge. There was no place nearby to fill up on water."
Tips for RVers
Limited vehicle-accessible options: Most sites require hiking gear transportation. "If you choose to drive, just know that it can be impossible to find a place to park on busy weekends (you'll need to drop your stuff off, find a place to park along the road, then come back to park in the evening when the parking lot clears)," explains a Pantoll camper.
Equipment portage logistics: Plan for gear transport assistance. "Wheelbarrows are not an option, and footing is iffy when carrying large, heavy items up and down from the parking lot," notes a Steep Ravine visitor. "A short backpack trip to Sky Camp which is literally on the ridge. You are in the Point Reyes National Seashore up on a ridge."
Weather preparation: Pack for coastal conditions. "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. Don't just look at weather online and go," advises a frequent coastal camper. Morning fog and afternoon winds are common year-round.
