Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground sits at approximately 100 feet elevation in a forested canyon along Lagunitas Creek. The campground experiences coastal fog patterns with temperatures averaging 45-65°F even during summer months. Rainfall concentrates in the winter months, with August through October typically being the driest period for pet friendly camping near Strawberry, California.
What to do
Hiking with dogs: Most trails at Mount Tamalpais State Park allow leashed pets on designated paths. "You can hike anywhere from this campground. Down to Muir Woods in less than 3 miles. Up to Rock Springs, Bolinas Ridge, and Mount Tam. Down to Stinson Beach," notes camper Erin S., highlighting the extensive network accessible from Pantoll Campground.
Beach excursions: Stinson Beach is approximately 3 miles from Mount Tamalpais campgrounds via hiking trails or a short drive. "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," writes Joseph F. about the Samuel P. Taylor State Park area.
Urban exploration with pets: The ferry terminal near Marin RV Park offers convenient access to San Francisco with pets. "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., who visited the area with his pets.
What campers like
Diverse temperature zones: The region experiences multiple microclimates within short distances. "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. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
Proximity to food options: Restaurants near campgrounds provide alternatives to campfire cooking. "If you don't want to cook there are 2 restaurants next door," mentions Chris M. about Olema Campground, which offers convenient dining options for pet owners who want a break from meal preparation.
Accessible wildlife viewing: The coastal area offers opportunities to observe marine life. One camper at San Francisco RV Resort noted, "This is an interesting rv park on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean... Spectacular sunsets over the pacific if the fog permits. Saw a couple whales too. When it's clear you can see the farralon islands 30 miles offshore."
What you should know
Campsite privacy varies significantly: Sites at many campgrounds offer limited separation. "The campsites were decently located. Above the Mendocino coast the mornings are wet and Cold," notes Katherine T. about the Samuel P. Taylor area, while another camper observed that "sites are close and poorly defined."
Urban camping noise considerations: Roadway sounds affect some campgrounds. "Beautiful campground but close to the road," observes Tai W., explaining that "the vehicle noise from the nearby Sir Francis Drake Blvd can be distracting if you are a light sleeper (and you are tent camping)."
Water restrictions: Swimming access is limited in many areas. At Anthony Chabot Regional Park, one camper notes, "While you can get down to the lake easily, there's no swimming for either dogs or humans," making it important to plan alternative activities with pets.
Tips for camping with families
Pack for microclimates: Temperature shifts occur rapidly in the area. "The cool moist ocean fog comes in and blankets the area in the evenings, which can really cool it down," explains Joseph F. about camping in the redwoods, noting how quickly weather can change.
Poison oak awareness: Keep children and pets on established trails. "Also, lots of poison oak in the unmaintained areas and off the trails, so be aware," cautions a Samuel P. Taylor camper, highlighting an important safety consideration when hiking with kids and animals.
Campground amenities for kids: Some locations offer specific family facilities. "Playgrounds, swimming pool, lots of space to run and scream. We stay when visiting the area and endure the screaming kids. The kids do have fun, I give them that," reports Linda A. about the San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
Tips from RVers
Tight spaces at urban locations: Most RV parks near Strawberry have limited site dimensions. "Spots are tight. Staff is great! Laundry hot tub pool are always clean," notes Corrie G. about one coastal park, while another camper observed their neighbors' slide was "a foot from our door" at another location.
RV accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access. "It's a bit too tight for large trailer or RV camping (unless you are an expert at maneuvering through tight spaces)," warns Tai W. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
Pet-friendly RV options: Several RV parks accommodate pets with designated areas. "There is a great restuarant down the road and a church next door!" notes one reviewer about the Olema Campground, which provides cabins and RV sites that welcome pets alongside access to local amenities.
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