Camping Near San Francisco

Experience San Francisco camping where rugged coastlines and misty redwood forests offer the ultimate escape into nature’s tranquility.

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5 Best Campgrounds Near San Francisco, CA

  • Kirby Cove Campground

    Location MarkerSausalito, CA

    Kirby Cove offers one of the most unique camping experiences near San Francisco, with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean. The campground is small, quiet, and only a short drive from the city, making it a favorite for urban campers.

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  • Angel Island State Park

    Location MarkerTiburon, CA

    Angel Island offers a peaceful island retreat just a ferry ride away from San Francisco. The campground provides sweeping views of the bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the city skyline. Visitors can hike, explore historical sites, and enjoy the tranquility of the island.

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  • Mount Tamalpais State Park

    Location MarkerMill Valley, CA

    Mount Tamalpais State Park is known for its panoramic views of the Bay Area, redwood forests, and miles of hiking trails. The campground is set in the lush hills north of San Francisco, offering a scenic escape close to the city.

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  • Samuel P. Taylor State Park

    Location MarkerLagunitas, CA

    Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers shaded camping among redwood trees and access to hiking and biking trails. It’s an excellent campground for families and outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy nature while being close to the Bay Area.

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  • China Camp State Park

    Location MarkerSan Rafael, CA

    China Camp is a historic state park located along the shores of the San Pablo Bay. The campground offers scenic views of the water, easy access to hiking and biking trails, and a unique blend of history and nature.

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5 Hardest-to-Book Campgrounds Near San Francisco, CA

  • Kirby Cove Campground

    Location MarkerSausalito, CA

    With its breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay, Kirby Cove is one of the most coveted campgrounds near San Francisco. Its small size and popularity make it difficult to book, especially during weekends and holidays.

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  • Angel Island State Park

    Location MarkerTiburon, CA

    Angel Island’s proximity to San Francisco and its stunning views of the city make it a highly sought-after destination. With limited campsites and high demand, it often fills up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

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  • Steep Ravine Cabins and Campground

    Location MarkerStinson Beach, CA

    Located on the Marin coast, Steep Ravine is famous for its oceanside cabins and cliffside campsites. The limited availability and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean make it one of the hardest campgrounds to book near San Francisco.

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  • Rob Hill Campground

    Location MarkerSan Francisco, CA

    Located within the Presidio, Rob Hill Campground offers a unique camping experience within the city limits of San Francisco. Its urban location and scenic views make it a tough spot to secure, with high demand throughout the year.

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  • Mount Tamalpais State Park

    Location MarkerMill Valley, CA

    Mount Tamalpais is a popular destination for hikers and campers alike. Its proximity to the city and stunning views of the Bay Area make it a difficult campground to book, especially during the summer months.

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5 Best Campgrounds for RV Camping Near San Francisco, CA

  • San Francisco RV Resort

    Location MarkerPacifica, CA

    Just minutes from San Francisco, this RV resort offers oceanfront camping with stunning views of the Pacific. The resort is fully equipped with hookups, and its close proximity to the city makes it ideal for RV travelers who want to explore San Francisco while enjoying the outdoors.

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  • Candlestick RV Park

    Location MarkerSan Francisco, CA

    Located near the former site of Candlestick Park, this RV park offers a convenient urban camping experience with easy access to downtown San Francisco. The park provides full hookups and modern amenities, making it a great base for exploring the city.

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  • Marin RV Park

    Location MarkerGreenbrae, CA

    Located just north of San Francisco in Marin County, this RV park offers easy access to both the city and nearby natural attractions like Muir Woods and Mount Tamalpais. The park is well-maintained, with full hookups and a peaceful atmosphere.

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  • Pillar Point RV Park

    Location MarkerHalf Moon Bay, CA

    Situated along the coast in Half Moon Bay, Pillar Point RV Park offers oceanfront RV camping with stunning views of the Pacific. The park is a favorite for surfers, beachgoers, and those looking to relax by the sea.

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  • Anthony Chabot Regional Park

    Location MarkerCastro Valley, CA

    Located in the East Bay hills, Anthony Chabot Regional Park offers RV campers a peaceful, wooded setting with access to hiking and biking trails. The campground is spacious, offering full hookups and a serene atmosphere close to San Francisco.

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5 Best Campgrounds for Tent Camping Near San Francisco, CA

  • Kirby Cove Campground

    Location MarkerSausalito, CA

    Kirby Cove is a favorite for tent campers looking to enjoy stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean. The secluded location and small number of campsites make it a peaceful retreat just minutes from the city.

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  • Steep Ravine Cabins and Campground

    Location MarkerStinson Beach, CA

    Steep Ravine offers tent campers an incredible experience with campsites perched above the Pacific Ocean. The combination of rugged coastline and peaceful surroundings make it one of the best spots for tent camping near San Francisco.

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  • Angel Island State Park

    Location MarkerTiburon, CA

    Tent camping on Angel Island offers a truly unique experience, with sweeping views of the bay and the city skyline. The campground provides a peaceful, island getaway just a short ferry ride from San Francisco, making it a perfect spot for tent campers.

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  • Rob Hill Campground

    Location MarkerSan Francisco, CA

    Rob Hill Campground is located in the Presidio and is one of the only places where you can camp within San Francisco. The campground offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay, providing a unique urban camping experience for tent campers.

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  • Samuel P. Taylor State Park

    Location MarkerLagunitas, CA

    Samuel P. Taylor offers tent campers a quiet, forested campground among the redwoods. With easy access to hiking and biking trails, it’s a favorite for those looking to escape the city and enjoy nature without traveling far from San Francisco.

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Camping near San Francisco guide

Overview

As one of California's most vibrant destinations, San Francisco captivates visitors with its architectural marvels, from the majestic Golden Gate Bridge to the enchanting Painted Ladies Victorian homes. The city boasts an impressive array of historical landmarks, including the infamous Alcatraz Island and North America's oldest Chinatown district, complemented by cutting-edge dining establishments and world-class museums. While the city itself offers countless attractions, it also serves as an ideal base for exploring the magnificent outdoor destinations in Northern California, many just a brief drive away.

Where to go

North Bay

Cross the Golden Gate Bridge into the North Bay region, where you'll discover pristine beaches, charming communities, and renowned wine regions including Napa Valley and Sonoma County. The area offers diverse camping opportunities, from the towering redwoods of Mount Tamalpais State Park to the unique experience of beach camping on Angel Island State Park, accessible only via boat or ferry from the Bay Area.

East Bay

Beyond Oakland in the East Bay, outdoor enthusiasts will find exceptional natural spaces perfect for day trips or overnight stays. Mount Diablo State Park offers panoramic vistas and excellent camping facilities, while Anthony Chabot Regional Park provides a peaceful retreat just minutes from San Leandro's urban center.

Along the Pacific Ocean

The coastline near San Francisco features some of California's most spectacular shores, from the rugged cliffs of Point Reyes National Seashore to the expansive sandy beaches of Half Moon Bay. While private campgrounds are common in this region, several state parks offer public camping facilities, including Salt Point State Park.

Santa Cruz Mountains

The Santa Cruz Mountains, part of the Pacific Coast range, offer excellent hiking and backpacking opportunities. Visitors can enjoy trail camping at Castle Rock State Park and Portola Redwoods State Park, with the latter also featuring a family drive-in campground. Sanborn County State Park provides both RV parks & camping and hike-in sites for diverse outdoor experiences.

When to go

The unique microclimate of San Francisco demands year-round preparation with layered clothing and rain gear. While early summer often brings fog, late August through early October typically offers clearer skies and warmer temperatures. For optimal camping conditions, plan your visit after Labor Day weekend when crowds thin out and temperatures remain pleasant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best camping destinations near San Francisco?

From Yosemite National Park to the scenic Point Reyes National Seashore, numerous camping options surround San Francisco. Mount Diablo State Park offers panoramic Bay Area views, while Anthony Chabot Regional Park provides convenient access to nature. The Tahoe National Forest and lakeside camping opportunities are also within driving distance.

What weather conditions should campers expect around San Francisco?

The Bay Area's unique microclimate requires careful preparation throughout the year. Pack layered clothing and rain gear regardless of season. While fog frequently appears in early summer, late August through early October typically offers the most favorable camping conditions with clearer skies and moderate temperatures. For the best experience, consider camping after Labor Day when crowds diminish and weather remains stable.

What coastal camping options are available near San Francisco?

The region offers exceptional beach camping opportunities, from the dramatic coastline of Point Reyes National Seashore to the serene shores of Half Moon Bay. While private campgrounds are prevalent, several state parks maintain public camping facilities. The Central Coast area provides additional options for those willing to venture slightly further south.

What accommodation options exist beyond traditional camping?

The San Francisco area offers diverse outdoor accommodation options. Glamping sites provide luxury camping experiences, while cabins offer more traditional shelter. RV parks & camping facilities are widely available, and some locations even feature unique treehouses or yurts for an unconventional stay.

Which national parks are accessible from San Francisco?

Several iconic national parks are within driving distance of San Francisco. Yosemite offers dramatic landscapes and extensive camping options, while Sequoia National Park showcases magnificent giant trees. Redwood National Park presents awe-inspiring ancient forests, and Los Padres National Forest provides diverse recreational opportunities.

What are the best camping destinations for wine country exploration?

The North Bay region offers excellent camping opportunities near wine country. From bases in Mendocino to Paso Robles, campers can explore renowned vineyards while enjoying the outdoors. The Mendocino National Forest provides rustic camping experiences, while various state parks offer facilities closer to wine-tasting routes.

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