Five of Marin County's Best Campgrounds
Just across from the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin County beckons every city dweller north to its open spaces, pristine beaches, and scenic drives. So why not make it an overnight on this popular peninsula? Ditch the hotel and go al fresco with any of these restful and bucolic campsites.
1) Samuel P Taylor State Park
Named after a Gold Rush-era entrepreneur who built the first paper mill in California, this nearly 3,000 acre park offers more than just 60 campsites shrouded by redwoods. Wind through 1.5 miles of the fern-laden South Creek Trail, or take your bike along the 3-mile Cross Marin Trail that hugs gorgeous Lagunitas Creek. And if you go in the rainy season, you could even see salmon and stealhead trout spawning in Lagunitas Creek! Visit here for more information.
2) Sky Camp
Looking for something a little beyond car camping? Then Sky Camp may be your spot! Located about a mile and a half from the Sky Trailhead on Limantour Road, Sky Camp is a hike-in campground with 11 spacious individual sites and 1 group site. Campers love the soft ground of pine needles that help cushion a good night's sleep. On clear days, campers will be treated to unmatched views of the Pacific Ocean. Visit here for more information.
3) Kirby Cove Campground
It's tough to find a closer campground to the city than Kirby Cove Campground. It's also tougher to find a better view of the Golden Gate Bridge from a campsite. Located just 8 miles from downtown San Francisco, the campground is surrounded by pockets of Monterey pine, eucalyptus, and coastal sage. There are only 5 overnight camping sites, so overcrowding should be far from your mind as you take in inimitable views of the Bay. Visit here for more information.
4) Wildcat Camp
Ever dream of waking up in a verdant meadow overlooking the ocean? Wildcamp not only puts you on your dream bluff above the sea, but also offers a modest walk to the cascading Alamere Falls. Come in late spring and you may encounter a yellow carpet of wildflowers! Visit here for more information.
5) Haypress Camground
Located within the popular hiking destination of Tennessee Valley and only 1 mile from the Tennessee Valley parking lot, Haypress Campround is a quick escape to silence and isolation. With only five campsites adorned by towering eucalyptus, Haypress offers access to miles of trails for hiking through the grasslands of the Marin headlands. Visit herefor more information.