Cabin accommodations near Union City, California are located within a 30-90 minute drive in several directions. These mountain and coastal retreats sit at elevations ranging from sea level to 2,500 feet, experiencing temperature swings that can reach 40 degrees cooler than nearby cities. Winter cabin stays often require additional heating sources as evening temperatures regularly drop below 45°F, even during summer months in coastal and redwood locations.
What to do
Hiking from your doorstep: At Mount Madonna County Park, cabin guests can access extensive trail networks directly from their sites. "The sites are a decent size with lots of trees to climb on, hide in, and play on. You can get 'add on' packages with the cabins, which include things like sheets and pillows for the beds, propane lanterns, and cooking items," shares one visitor about the Mount Madonna County Park cabin experience.
Wildlife viewing: The cabins at Samuel P. Taylor State Park position visitors for excellent wildlife encounters. "Site backs up to Wilderness and saw a doe within 10 mins of setting up camp just a few steps away," notes a camper at Skyline Wilderness Park, which offers similar wildlife viewing opportunities as many Union City area cabin locations.
Beach excursions: Cabin stays at Steep Ravine put you within walking distance of coastal activities. "It's about a mile into Stinson Beach if you need provisions or restaurants, and you can hike right onto the Steep Ravine / Matt Davis trails and climb all over Mt. Tam from the campground," explains a visitor to Steep Ravine Campground.
What campers like
Redwood forest setting: The cabin environments at regional parks provide immersive forest experiences. "Loved everything about this campground! Registration online was really easy as was the check-in process. We stayed in Valley View 1, site 106. There was really no road noise at our site," reports a visitor to Mount Madonna County Park.
Proximity to attractions: Cabins provide convenient access to regional destinations. "The win on this campground is how close it is to Point Reyes National Seashore, San Rafael, Olema, Novato and Marshall. I would highly recommend Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding," says a reviewer of Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
Digital detox opportunities: Many cabin locations offer limited connectivity. "The lack of cell reception really helps the feeling of being away from the city life. There was quite a bit of wildlife roaming through the park mainly in the early morning. I saw deer and turkeys roaming the campground," notes a camper at Del Valle Campground.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Securing cabin reservations requires planning. "Extremely hard to get a reservation. Can get very windy! Georgeous spot to pitch your tent on the ocean cliffs. Unique and wonderful place to camp," warns a visitor about Steep Ravine Campground.
Temperature fluctuations: Weather at cabin locations can change dramatically. "The night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers," advises a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Limited electricity: Most basic cabins lack power. "No electricity but the wood burning stove provides some light. Bring candles and lanterns and some fabric for curtains for privacy," suggests a Steep Ravine visitor.
Privacy considerations: Site selection impacts experience. "The sites are a little close to each other, but those on the outside of the loop had a great deal of privacy. Inner loop sites have none, but would be great if you were camping with friends," notes a Mount Madonna County Park camper.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA offers structured programming for children. "Fantastic (but pricey) KOA Experience. The resort also has great activities for kids that they occasionally bring on site, such as a climbing wall and nature talks with live animals," writes a visitor to Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA.
Biking opportunities: Several cabin locations accommodate cycling. "Great campground for the kids to bike at but there are a few big hills so make sure they know how to use their brakes," recommends a Mount Madonna County Park visitor.
Educational experiences: Ranger programs enhance cabin stays. "We attended a presentation on the wild birds in the area that an employee provided, and then he took us on a hike through Costanoa and over to the ocean. He was awesome and the hike was great!" shares a Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all cabin areas accommodate large RVs. "We camp with a 27' Travel Trailer and the campgrounds can accommodate it. There is also several tent campsites as well. The marina to Lake Del Valle is a few miles away," notes a Del Valle Campground visitor.
Hookup positioning: Prepare for connection challenges at some locations. "Hookups are pretty fast away and needed my sewer extension. There are full time residents along with short term. If you have slide outs, careful to not hit your neighbor!" warns a camper at Treasure Island MH and RV Park.
Leveling requirements: Site grading varies across cabin campgrounds. "Sites are level with minimal need for blocks. Staff are friendly. Native garden is very nice. Hiking is nice too especially in winter when everything is green," reports a Skyline Wilderness Park visitor.
