Camping in Bay Area with wildlife watching
From the fog-encased redwoods to the sandy shores along the Pacific Ocean, Bay Area camping has something special waiting for every camping enthusiast.
- Bay Area
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12 top campgrounds in Bay Area with wildlife watching
90%
(1228)
Terminal 4
13 sites · RVs, Tents24 acres · North Richmond, Contra Costa
Camp and/or park your RV at the tip of the San Pablo Peninsula with astonishing views of San Francisco Bay on one side and San Pablo Bay on the other. A lot of open space to explore. Relax in the beautiful bay views, wildlife, common areas built to chill and take in the scenery.
Enjoy a unique sauna experience by the bay via our tenants Good Hot Fri - Sun. Saunas are available for private rental, and are located adjacent to a beach for cold plunging. You must book via their website http://www.good-hot.com. Reservations open 14 days in advance and often fill up.
Also, a short distance away is the San Pablo Yacht Harbor. This is the location of the fun new restaurant Sailing Goat. It is accessible by either a short drive over the hill or via a private coastal walking path.
Terminal 4 makes up the tip of the San Pablo Peninsula and fronts on both San Francisco and San Pablo Bays. Lot A is on the San Francisco Bayside, just to left after entering the Main Gate. The views are spectacular but it can be a bit windier than Lot B, which faces the San Pablo Bayside. Also, no power or water, but a porta-potty is about 50 yards distant.
Located at the tip of the San Pablo Peninsula near the Richmond San Rafael Bridge, this 24-acre secluded former port facility boasts some of the most beautiful views anywhere of both San Francisco and San Pablo Bays.
from
$90
/ night
100%
(40)
Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch
1 site · Lodging350 acres · Loma Mar, San Mateo
Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) protects open space on the Peninsula and in the South Bay for the benefit of all.
At one time, the ridge of the Santa Cruz Mountains was a thriving center for trade between tribes of the coast and the bay, which we still find evidence of today in cultural sites and artifacts throughout the region. Native people have cared for this land since time immemorial, including the local Muwekma and Ramaytush Ohlone who are still active in the area today. This property specifically is host to a tributary to one of just a handful of waterways that support salmonids in this region, which are a species of tremendous importance to native people.
Over 1000 acres here were eventually purchased by entrepreneur Ridgeway Rowley, who built a home on the ranch in the 1880s as part of an unsuccessful wedding proposal to Fannie Page, daughter of a local mill owner (ever heard of Page Mill Road?) After being rejected by Fannie, Rowley operated the ranch for a decade in conjunction with his work as District Attorney and publisher of the Palo Alto Weekly, before eventually returning to his hometown of Cortland, NY, where he lived as a bachelor until his death. Over the course of the 20th century, the ranch was divided, some parts of which became Pescadero Creek County Park. POST purchased the 350 acre home property, now called Alpine Ranch, in 2012 through our Heart of the Redwoods campaign, an initiative to protect 20,000 acres of Redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Alpine Ranch borders Pescadero Creek County Park and Sam McDonald County Park, adding to the area’s protected open space and containing more than a mile of tributaries to Pescadero Creek, which flows year-round and is a major spawning stream for steelhead trout.
The Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch is situated at one of the property's most scenic overlooks. The cabin was built in the early 1900's, and completely reconstructed up to modern building codes by POST in 2018 so that all could enjoy this special place.
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$100
/ night
99%
(227)
The Olive Farm
1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Novato, Marin
Excellent Group Site! We only host one group at a time so you can be with your family and friends in a large, flat and private space. We listed the site for up to 12 campers but feel free to reach out if your group is bigger.
The land was originally purchased in the 1980's. Since then, it has been used by four generations of the family as a place to gather, relax, camp and even celebrate. I had my wedding on the property in 2010. For a few years we held an annual music festival with the very inventive name of Samapalooza. Up to 400 people would attend the day filled with live music, food and drinks. You will still find the stage and bar we built as an outdoor kitchen and dining area.
Around 2008, my father and I planted our first olive trees. Many have been planted since which has gifted the land the timeless sense of purpose it deserves. My father dedicated his last years to tending the young trees and now I have taken the mantle to carry the farm forward.
'The Property', as it is known amongst family and friends has always been a place to camp. I have sat around the same fire ring for decades, rain or shine. I hope that fellow hipcampers can find the joy that my family and I have experienced here.
This is a very private camp on a small olive farm. Geographically close to highways and the town of Novato, Sonoma and Napa wine country, this camp feels remote and secluded. Only one camp on the property to keep it private and special. You basically have your run of the land. We have just updated the land and made some nice improvements. Located on ten acres, you will drive past a small olive grove before reaching the spacious and open campground.
We have just renovated our old bar for use as a kitchen, tent pad or sitting area. Check out the new pictures to see what we've done!
Just up the hill from the camp is a private pond where you can fish, take out a small boat or just sit and watch the birds. It can be great swimming on hot summer days.
This spot has been used by the family for decades and is now open to share with fellow nature lovers.
Just a note: While the majority of the time you can expect complete privacy, this is a working olive farm. From time to time you may run into me (Sam) or someone else associated with the land. We will always do our best to respect your space.
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$140
/ night
95%
(248)
Garden by the sea
1 site · TentBolinas, Marin
A large flowery lot home of a landscape painter and a musician. Very quiet within one block of cliff-side ocean view. A 15-20 minute walk or a few minute drive to the beach.Pitch your tent in a pretty private flower garden in a charming coastal town less than an hour from San Francisco. The site is surrounded by state and national parks accommodating many recreational activities.We have added an outdoor shower and a place to store surfboards. Brighton and Wharf Rd. Beach are both good surfing spots.
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$50
/ night
97%
(19)
Euphorbia Gardens
1 site · Lodging12 acres · Bolinas, Marin
Enjoy this beautiful land and gardens in our new geo dome! This dome is nestled in the lush succulent and cacti gardens and has beautiful sunset views. On the property are two large greenhouses that were originally built by Herman Schwartz in the 70s. The greenhouses were abandon for many years and are undergoing restoration, however, they are still magnificent with some cacti being 40-50 years old! Guests are welcome to tour them and the property where there is also a beautiful pond. This property is the perfect peaceful getaway.
In the dome, we have floor pads, a space heater, side tables and a lamp. We advise to bring your own bedding. Temperatures do drop so please plan accordingly. Bathrooms with sinks are near the dome.
During the week, we have an outdoor preschool on the property so you might see little tables and play areas around the land.
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$175
/ night
98%
(96)
SkyWanda Sanctuary
5 sites · Lodging, Tents2 acres · Woodside, San Mateo
An acre and a half nestled in a grove of Redwood Trees with creek. Owner lives in original 1930”s log cabin with her animals. Located behind well known “Alice’s Restaurant”, however this owner is well known for her cooking and gregarious personality thru Airbnb community. Recently added outdoor kitchen and outdoor shower. Open hearted people welcomed.
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$95
/ night
97%
(285)
The Ranch at Cross Road
12 sites · RVs, Tents84 acres · Livermore, Alameda
Welcome to the ranch at cross road! We are a family owned organic farm in the heart of Livermore wine country. We have 10 camp sites spread across the property for you to choose from. The property is minutes from Lake Del Valle and some of the best wineries and breweries California has to offer. Settle in and enjoy amazing sunsets every night with us!
We accommodate tents,Travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Pop-up campers, Class A RVs, Class B RVs, Class C RVs, Campervans, and Cars.
Our guests love us too! "I had a wonderful stay at Matt’s ranch! It was easy to find even as it was starting to get dark, and the campsites were well lit and easy to find. The ranch is beautiful. It was such a treat to stay here. I would definitely stay again."
from
$50
/ night
97%
(220)
Where the Fairies Live
3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Lagunitas, Marin
Come enjoy the beauty of West Marin on our flat, spacious 1-acre property with a seasonal creek and an expansive ancient Buckeye Tree. At night the "magical" tree is lit with hanging solar-lit mason jars and you can sit and relax in our Adirondack chairs.
We offer two distinct sites: 1) a fully electrified, heated, SHED, equipped with wifi/refrigerator/microwave that can sleep two people, and 2) a campsite that can accommodate up to four people in a tent/RV/trailer/van/or car camping. Both spaces have their own picnic table and separate portable toilets. Guests from either site can enjoy lawn games such as bocce ball or corn hole as well as a full-size trampoline.
** Please Note -- This is a family friendly space. You will not have exclusive use of the land; we are a family of four with a friendly dog (a small golden retriever named Orvis, who likes to greet everyone). We live on-site in a small house, about 80ft from the shed and about 80ft from the camping site.
We are three miles from Samuel P. Taylor State Park, natural pools at the Inkwells, and miles of hiking. Our property is about 45 minutes from Marin County beaches (Stinson, Bolinas, Limantour), Tomales Bay, Hog Island Oysters, and Pt. Reyes National Seashore. In the opposite direction, we are three miles from Roy's Redwoods and seven miles from Nicasio Valley Cheese Company (plus a seasonal pumpkin patch).
This is a wonderful location for relaxing on site or for being a hub for various day-trips in West Marin. Other local amenities include a coffee shop (w/a nice bathroom, 1-mile down the road), a market/deli/burrito shop, a farm stand with local produce, and an amazing Indian restaurant all within 2-miles from the site.
A well-behaved dog can stay as well but can not be left unattended.
Please note that while West Marin is mostly rural where many homes sit on large acres of land, we are still in a quiet neighborhood setting.
No loud parties, no smoking, no loud voices after 9:00 PM.
from
$50
/ night
84%
(35)
Canyon Creek Resort
35 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Winters, Yolo
Located beside Lake Berryessa in Winters, CA, Canyon Creek Resort is a beautiful destination for all ages. This premier oasis is just 40 miles west of Sacramento, 30 miles east of Napa, and just a short drive from the Bay Area. Canyon Creek Resort is the Home resort for Private Camping members
Tree-lined RV sites with full hookups
Fully furnished Cottages and Cabin Rentals
Fishing and Boating at Lake Berryessa
Nature Paths for Hiking
Two Clubhouses: One for adults; One for families
Two Swimming Pools: One for adults; One for families
Spa
Bocce Ball
Children’s Playground
Planned Group Activities
Cafe and Artisan Pizza Patio
Entertainment Deck
Laundry Facilities
24-Hour Security
from
$59
/ night
98%
(227)
Blackberry Farm
5 sites · Tents7 acres · Marin
Blackberry Farm sits on the western side of Mount Tamalpais, tucked in the Gospel Flat area of Bolinas. The family farm and residence were established during the late 1970s on the site of the historic Peter’s Dairy Ranch. The original farmhouse dates back to the late 19th century and survived the great 1906 earthquake. Today, the 7-acre farm is being restored to sustainably support fruit orchards, cottage flower and kitchen gardens, honey bees, a boisterous flock of chickens, and naughty shetland sheep. Our self-serve farmstand attached to our barn has seasonal flowers, organic eggs, heirloom fruit, and local goods from the farm.
Our property is the perfect rustic getaway for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts. You’ll be surrounded by farm/ranch life: chickens clucking, roosters crowing, bees buzzing, and sheep bleating. We also have active nighttime wildlife: coyotes howling, raccoons foraging, owls hooting, etc. Bring earplugs if nature sounds are too much for you.
We offer 4 walk-in tent sites that allow you to immerse yourself in nature. We welcome well-behaved pets ON LEASH that won’t harass the chickens, cats, sheep, other campers, or residents. Unruly pets and their campers will be asked to leave. No refund. Limit: 1 dog per site.
Pitch your tent in a meadow shared by:
Campsite 1 - left side of the meadow, closest to the common area and hot tub.
Campsite 2 - middle of the meadow, closest to our fenced apiary and bee garden.
Campsite 3 - right side of the meadow, near the orchard. (sites 1 and 3 are next to each other)
Campsite 4 - front of the pasture, closest to the parking area (best for car/van campers wanting space to lounge near their parked vehicle.)
Multiple sites may be booked for group camping. Sites 1 and 3 are next to each other under the Cypress Trees. Add site 2 if you would like the entire back half of the campground. Add site 4 if you'd like to have a maximum number of 16 total campers and 2 tents/per site.
The common area has an outdoor shower, hot tub, covered bbq/cook area, tented (weather-protected) hangout space, and a place to stash your surfboard. Redwood Grove hangout areas have seating and tree swings. Please pack out your trash. We offer a recycling bin for glass bottles, cans, and clean paper.
Parking is 100 yds or less from the campsites. We have a large wheelbarrow to help you cart your camping gear across the pasture to your campsite. No driving onto or parking in the meadow.
Due to the narrow driveway and parking area (lack of turnaround), the site cannot accommodate RVs, trailers, or oversize vehicles beyond 16ft in length, 7ft in width, or 10 ft in height. 1 car per campsite, please.
15-minute walk to the beach and downtown.
from
$75
/ night
100%
(7)
Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
3 sites · Lodging10 acres · Half Moon Bay, San Mateo
On 9 private acres overlooking the stunning Tunitas Beach and Pacific ocean from a breathtaking cliff top view. Stunning sunrises and sunset greet you in this fully equipped new 2023 Airstream. Fully loaded with all the amenities to make your glamping experience perfect. Fire pit, outside BBQ, outside griddle, A/C and fully stocked kitchen. Comes will full bathroom with shower. Truly a rare experience and located within 10 mins of Half Moon Bay shopping. Beach access short walk or drive.
from
$299
/ night
100%
(3)
Stunning Treehouse & Cabin
1 site · Lodging30 acres · Half Moon Bay, San Mateo
A soulful and energetic paradise, beautiful, private, peaceful and wild surroundings complimented with modern luxuries and comfort.
A stunning, unique and unrivalled experience sure to impact you deeply. Soak in the outdoor tub while you plan your next adventure.
Just minutes from the beach, amazing hiking, views and biking.
Outfitted with organic latex mattresses, down comforters, top of the line appliances, smoking fast internet and a spectacular wifi sound system with world class acoustics.
from
$650
/ night
Dog-friendly getaways
Under $50
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Camping in Bay Area with wildlife watching guide
The San Francisco Bay Area may seem like an urban hub but don't be fooled. Beyond the Golden Gate Bridge, you find Pacific beaches, foggy shorelines, and dense Redwood groves. While many campers are making the long drive to Yosemite, savvy travelers explore a trove of Bay Area state parks.
Just an hour's drive south of the city, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is a hidden gem in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Pitch your tent among towering California redwood groves. Don't forget your cookware—the park has some nifty campground grills.
Want to see the Golden Gate Bridge from your tent? Kirby Cove is the park for you. Nestled right on the bay, it's one of the most popular parks in the region. It tends to book out months in advance, so get yourself on that guest list early.
If you're looking for beach camping, head to Point Reyes National Seashore. The hike-in and boat-in camping spots are secluded, and you can't beat catching the morning surf. While hiking the shore, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, elephant seals, and sea lions.
If you're traveling with kids, head to Samuel P. Taylor State Park, one of the oldest campgrounds in the country. The hiking trails are fairly easy, offering views of Lagunitas Creek, redwood forests, and rolling hills with wild turkeys. For more fun, bike the paved cycling path, or take your four-legged buddy on the Cross Marin trail.
On the continental side of San Francisco Bay, you come to East Bay, an outdoor haven at San Francisco's doorstep. Boat Lake Chabot, hike Wildcat Canyon, or camp at Redwood Regional Park for a taste of adventure.
From state parks with hike-in and bike-in sites to private campgrounds, Bay Area camping helps you connect with the great outdoors. If glamping is more your style, don't worry. You find plenty of seaside cottages, mountain yurts, and wilderness cabins in the region.
The mild climate of the Bay Area makes for great year-round camping. However, scoring a site during summer can be tough. To beat the crowds, pack your rain gear and travel during the winter wet season. Pro tip: If you're camping on the bay in any season, bring a rain jacket. The damp fog rolls in when you least expect it.
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