Tomales, California camping offers outdoor experiences in the coastal hills of western Marin County at elevations ranging from sea level to 500 feet. Winter temperatures average 40-60°F with frequent fog and mist, while summer brings 60-80°F days with cool evenings. The mix of coastal and inland camping options creates distinct microclimates where temperatures can vary 15-20 degrees between morning and evening.
What to do
Hiking at Samuel P. Taylor State Park: Explore multiple trail options through redwood groves and alongside Lagunitas Creek. The paved Cross Marin Trail runs for over a mile along the creek, perfect for casual walks. "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," notes Joseph F.
Beach exploration from Coast Campground: The campground sits minutes from a sandy beach with tidepools. Located within Point Reyes National Seashore, campers reach this hike-in campground via a 1.8-mile trail. "The beach was sandy and beautiful, not that many people around. Hardly any bugs and thankfully wasn't windy when we went," shares Char A. from Coast Campground.
Wine tasting near Kenwood: Campgrounds in the wine region provide easy access to numerous vineyards. "Sugarloaf Ridge State Park is only a few minutes from Kenwood and many many wineries, but feels more remote than it is," according to Scott J. from Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground.
Kayaking on Tomales Bay: Paddle the protected waters with rental options near several campgrounds. "There is also Kayaking in Tomales Bay which is okay fun," mentions Kathleen C., who explored the area while camping at Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
What campers like
Access to local produce markets: Several campgrounds offer proximity to local farmers markets and food shops. "On Sunday's the farmers market is nextdoor so you can walk over," explains Brandon G. from Bodega Bay RV Park.
Star viewing opportunities: The northern bay area offers less fog than San Francisco, creating better conditions for star gazing. "The sky at night as ideally suited for star gazing since the north bay doesn't get as much fog as the general SF bay area and the city lights don't pollute the night sky too bad!" says Patrick O., who stayed at Coast Campground.
Range of glamping facilities: Upscale glamping options near Tomales provide varying levels of comfort. "The campground is close to Spring Lake's water-based activities and hiking trails, plus easy access to Trione-Annadel State Park for hiking and mountain biking," notes Michael I. from Spring Lake Regional Park.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Camping areas showcase diverse ecosystems with observable wildlife. "We saw a rabbit, turkeys, lizards, deer, & quails! Seems they have lots of hikes available," reports Brittney L., who camped at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
What you should know
Microclimates affect camping conditions: Temperature and moisture vary dramatically between coast and inland sites. "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," advises Joseph F. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Poison oak awareness needed: Several campgrounds report significant poison oak presence, particularly in unmaintained areas. "Be careful of the poison oak, it is prevalent there as it is so anywhere in Northern California," warns Robert S. about Ritchey Creek Campground.
Seasonal water restrictions: Creek access is limited during spawning seasons at some campgrounds. "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. about camping at Samuel P. Taylor.
Highway noise affects some sites: Proximity to roads impacts the quietness of certain campgrounds. "What was not mentioned is that it is right next to the highway so we heard frequent traffic day & nite," mentions DEL H. about River Bend Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreational amenities: Some campgrounds offer extensive kid-friendly facilities. "Lots of space between campsites and lots of trees. We normally prefer less crowded campsites, but this was a nice compromise along the way," shares Stephen R. about San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
Swimming options vary by location: Coast and inland sites offer different water experiences. "The private beach is great for kids (and adults). Easy swimming without a strong current. Lots of shallows but a deep swimming hole are for adults too," explains H L. about River Bend Resort.
Educational opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide nature programs and interpretive materials. "They have informational signs all over the place providing historical or ecological information," points out Joseph F. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Kids enjoy observing local animals at many sites. "Raccoons, Chipmunks and Blue Jays were NOT SHY but also not a harrowing issue," notes Kathleen C. about her family's experience at Samuel P. Taylor.
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: Many RV campgrounds have specific spacing and privacy challenges. "Sites are all gravel with a picnic table and divided by a fence. It's a packed place with no real views," explains Msmetoo48 S. about Bodega Bay RV Park.
Hookup availability varies: Water quality and electricity options differ between campgrounds. "Very enjoyable stay. The park is clean, quiet and there's a few trails that take you to the Beach. It's about a 30 min walk but an easy one. There's electric, cable and water at the pole," reports Brandon G. about Bodega Bay RV Park.
Accessibility challenges: Some glamping in Tomales, California area campgrounds have tight turns or steep entrances. "The streets all very tight for RV maneuvering. The place was packed. Had a pull through FHU site. Pretty narrow," cautions Patrick J. about San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer on-site sanitary dumps. "The host says they will come around in the morning and empty our tanks! No need to hook up our sewer hose!" shares Patrick M. about the VIP service at Petaluma KOA.
