The best camping in Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve, CA

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Discover Emeryville Crescent's marine beauty and outdoor activities.  

The best camping in Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve, CA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Bay View "Tree House"

1. Bay View "Tree House"

100%
(11)
13mi from Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve · 1 site · Lodging · San Rafael, CA
This is a beautiful, 20-sided shingled cottage set on 2 acres of oak trees, with views of the San Francisco Bay through the trees. The property is gated with off-street parking. This unique guest house offers one bedroom with a queen bed, and a full size sofa bed in the living room. Windows in every room look out into the oaks, where you can see deer, squirrels, hummingbirds, and occasional rabbits. For its location, it feels incredibly private! The cottage is just 2 miles from charming downtown San Rafael, and just 1 mile to mountain biking, hiking, and picnicking at China Camp State Park. San Rafael is the perfect location for day trips to San Francisco, Mt. Tamalpais, and all of Marin, Sonoma, and Napa counties. The cottage was built with the finest materials, including slate roof with copper gutters, bamboo and slate floors, granite counter tops, tumbled marble shower, and maple cabinets. A deck with glass railing encircles the entire house. There is a full kitchen, wireless high speed Internet, and cable. The only other other structure on the property is our main home. The hot tub, which hipcampers are welcome to use upon request, is on the deck of the main house.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from 
$205
 / night
Dispersed tent-only camping in the "dome meadow"

2. Slide Ranch

96%
(157)
16mi from Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve · 25 sites · Tents, Lodging · Muir Beach, CA
Slide Ranch is a nonprofit organization established in 1970, becoming one of the first Park Partners in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Slide Ranch is located on the Marin coast, on land that has a rich history in connecting people to food. The Coast Miwok once fished and foraged for food at this site, and in the late 19th century Portuguese dairy farmers purchased the land and produced milk and butter for residents of San Francisco. In 1969, 134 acres of this fertile coastline were rescued from commercial development. Slide Ranch camping fees directly fund scholarships for youth programs throughout the year. Slide Ranch is an unpaved ranch environment. Our trails and garden paths all consist of uneven, sloping terrain, often muddy or soft ground during the winter season, and may be challenging to access for visitors with significant mobility restrictions. Minors aged 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. No pets allowed; service animals are permitted. We do not have showering facilities or flush toilets. Water in all Slide Ranch taps is potable for refilling water bottles/jugs. Soap is provided for hand washing. Slide Ranch does not have any concessions on site. Camping is not supported by the on-site staff. Per current GGNRA regulations, campfires and open flames of any kind are not allowed.
Toilets
Potable water
Wifi
from 
$50
 / night
Camp Westy Wine Country

3. Camp Westy Wine Country

92%
(13)
23mi from Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve · 2 sites · Lodging · American Canyon, CA
Take in the sunny weather and open space while surrounded by other RVs on the property, where you’re welcome to wander, explore, and say hello to the animals. The ranch offers a relaxing setting that’s close to many attractions, but still feels like an oasis in the heart of California. The ranch is just a 7-minute drive from Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, offering a fun theme park day. You’re also only 20 minutes away from downtown Napa, home to world-class wineries and incredible food. If you’re craving some Bay Area adventure, the Vallejo Ferry Building is a 12-minute drive away, where you can catch the ferry directly into San Francisco. Nature lovers will enjoy nearby hiking spots like Newell Open Space, Wetlands Edge Park ( both just an 8-minute drive away), and Lynch Canyon Open Space, all offering cool views and plenty of trails to explore. While this may not be a traditional hotel stay, it’s a true California camping experience – comfortable, practical, and fun. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, our VW Vanagons provide everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Westfalia Camper / Vintage Camper Van / Glamping / Camp / Camping / RV / Instagrammable Stay / Unique stay / Ranch / Open Space / Hills / Glamping Napa / Vintage Volkswagen / Boho Camping / Off Grid / Van Camp / Family Stay
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$65
 / night
Golden hour laps

4. The Olive Farm

99%
(366)
23mi from Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Novato, CA
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. Please check out the newest addition of our cabin bunkhouse. Take a look at the pictures - you can add it to your stay as an extra when you book! 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. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$126
 / night
Sleep Up High In A Redwood Tree-net

5. Sleep Up High In A Redwood Tree-net

97%
(92)
23mi from Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve · 1 site · Tent, RV · San Geronimo, CA
A unique experience awaits you. Spend a night sleeping 20 feet up in the air suspended between towering Redwood trees. A custom woven "treenet" by West Marin artist Andrew Castle, provides a firm surface to hang out and sleep up to 5 people on. It's like floating in space. Bring your sleeping bag, this is open air camping at its best - No roof, no floor! Wake up to the sun filtering through your temple made of trees! Rain is nearly non-existent in the Summer and early Fall in beautiful San Geronimo Valley, making this the perfect place and time to sleep out in the glory of the redwoods. Swainson's Thrush will sing at dusk, followed by the owls and coyote's yipping and howling in the middle of the night (don't let it spook you!) There is amazing hiking all around, potable water on site and a public toilet not far away. There's parking for your camper directly next to the site, keeping your amenities close by.
Pets
Potable water
from 
$90
 / night
Kings Mountain Camp w/ ocean views

6. Kings Mountain Camp w/ ocean views

99%
(98)
26mi from Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve · 5 sites · Lodging · Woodside, CA
Breathe deep in nature on our 10-acre property on Kings Mountain, California hillside. Our generously sized Safari-style tents offer a unique blend of comfort and adventure. Each tent has beds, down comforters, crisp cotton linens, lights, and more. Outdoor and indoor furniture and little touches that will make your stay unique. The property is located 30min from SFO, 40min from San Francisco, 30min from Palo Alto, 20 min from Half Moon Bay. Each tent is perched on a sturdy wooden platform and features a fully furnished deck, providing a cozy space to relax and soak in the breathtaking ocean (Half Moon Bay views) and forest views (Kings Mountain). All tents include a mini fridge and a stove, ideal for light cooking, intimate fireside storytelling, and warmth during cool days. We suggest you bring easy-to-prep food, drinks, warm clothes, hiking shoes, and a beanie, as it can get chilly without notice. Your designated parking space is a 6-minute walk from the campsite (downhill on arrival, then back uphill (steep) in the forest), so we recommend traveling light. Our campsite is nestled within the same property as our charming little farm. Our goats roam the land all day and may visit you for pets and nuzzles. They are gentle, but please do not feed or let them inside the tent. Recharge from the day with a hot shower. Grab your fresh towels from your tent and go to your outdoor allocated bathhouses, where you’ll find an indoor shower and well-appointed restrooms. They are nicely lit and stocked with bath products. A sink area is available for dish clean-up, and a bbq/picnic area. KM is famous for its hiking and biking trails nestled amongst the redwoods. The closest is a 15-minute walk from our campsite, and others are within a 15-minute car ride. Tent 01 (180sqft) accommodates 3 people in a queen-size bed and a daybed. Tent 02 (210sqft) accommodates 4 people: two in a queen-size bed and two in a bunk bed and an outdoor suspended net Tent 03 (210sqft) accommodates 4 people: two in a queen-size bed and two in a twin bed + daybed and an outdoor propane stove, hangout deck Recently added: an apartment w a hot tub Kids under the age of 8 are not allowed. An adult must accompany minors under 21 YO.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$135
 / night
Moon Crest Valley Ranch

8. Moon Crest Valley Ranch

100%
(21)
28mi from Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Half Moon Bay, CA
Join us to host your next getaway at the beautiful Moon Crest Valley Ranch. A perfect spot for intimate get togethers that immerse you in nature and offer breathtaking views and countless activities on over 45 acres. This is a magical spot for our family and we can’t wait to share it with yours. You will be the exclusive campers on the property after booking and the owners will reside in their house. Potential activities on site include Private Hiking Trails, Breathtaking Ocean Views, Bocce Ball, Wiffle Ball, Golf Chipping, Soccer, and more... Guests are responsible for bringing their own camping gear. Of note, the main campsite is 1/2 mile hike from parking and has a portable camping toilet setup. One of our favorite spaces is the barn area which has a fire pit, multiple seating areas with views, an oversized picnic table, bocce ball, a grill and even a TV. This is a must hangout spot during the evenings for many guests before they hike back up to the campsite to retire for the night. There is also a portable toilet at the barn for guest convenience. Moon Crest Valley Ranch is located less than 10 minutes from the beautiful Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay and 15 minutes from scenic Main Street Half Moon Bay. We are also only 1/2 mile away from the Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve Trailhead that has an additional 30+ miles of gorgeous trails to explore. Bring your hiking shoes or bike!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$226
 / night
Morning tent view.

10. Studdert Family Farm

98%
(81)
29mi from Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Temelec, CA
Our family farm is located in the heart of beautiful Sonoma Valley. A total of 7 acres with 4 in Chardonnay grapes and 3 as our homestead and sheep farm. Come feed animals, gather eggs and use our place as a launching point for your wine country vacation.While riding her horse through the vineyards, a friend of ours noticed a "For Sale" sign. Nice barn, lighted arena, hmmm...maybe my friends would like to move here. One phone call and a risky escrow led to our dream property. We've slowly made it our own and have found that growing roses, grapes, fruit trees, chickens and sheep are our specialty. We've been "camping" here since 2002 and can't believe our luck. With uninhibited views of the beautiful hillsides and a rural lifestyle, our farm makes us feel like Nature paints us a new painting every day. The Chardonnay grapes are turned into wonderful Carneros wines by some of the areas best winemakers.
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
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from 
$128
 / night
Golden hour was the perfect time for us to spend time outdoors while the weather was still warm.

12. Glamping Experiences Napa Valley

100%
(19)
32mi from Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve · 5 sites · Lodging · Napa, CA
My husband Guy and I have stewarded our park-like, private, creekside property in downtown Napa for 20 years. We are both high-profile, seasoned hospitality giants in Napa and we love to share and connect with others. We have lots of love on our property with 4 female Golden Retrievers! We look forward to welcoming you. The property has a park-like feel and is just a 10-minute stroll to the heart of downtown Napa with lots of options for a fun time; dining, wine tasting, live music, brewery, kayaking and cycling. First Class Glamping Experience. Set among the creekside Redwoods and the bountiful gardens. Enjoy evenings on your private patio in the rocking chairs, Adirondacks, hammock or picnic table with cafe string lights and an outdoor movie; and our new custom outdoor shower with on-demand HOT water! Our property includes an outdoor compostable toilet and a hot water outdoor shower, providing you with the perfect blend of comfort and sustainability. You'll also have access to potable water to keep you refreshed during your stay. Embark on wine-tasting adventures, sample local culinary delights, and indulge in the region's rich heritage of winemaking. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region while being surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills. Our property is your gateway to an unforgettable experience in Napa Valley, where you can unwind, relax, and create beautiful memories in the heart of wine country.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$125
 / night
Swallowtail Historic Art Studio

13. Swallowtail Historic Art Studio

97%
(333)
33mi from Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve · 4 sites · Lodging · Petaluma, CA
Antique Indonesian teakwood cottage, private deck with hot tub and very special, large, artistic bathroom/sitting room, private for cottage guests only.. Beautifully rural, yet just 6 minutes from historic downtown Petaluma and fine restaurants and shops. A short trip to the Pacific coast and the fabulous Pt. Reyes National Seashore, Tomales and Bodega Bays and towns, excellent vineyards and breweries, and San Francisco! WE FOLLOW THE CLEANING AND DISINFECTING GUIDELINES ISSUED BY AIRBNB. The space The antique Indonesian cottage is made of beautifully hand carved and hand colored teak wood, and is quiet, cozy and romantic with lovely views. It abuts a large private deck and hot tub. Just a few steps across the deck is the very large, luxurious, art filled, centrally heated private bathroom and sitting area. The cottage itself is unheated although there is a premium electric mattress pad with separate controls on the California King bed. That and the hot tub make for cozy sleeping on chilly winter nights Guest access Aside from the private deck, hot tub and bathroom/sitting room (with 6' tub and shower), guests can access 2.5 peaceful acres, woods and fields and Helen Putnam Regional Park one mile down the road for spectacular hiking. Other things to note In the 1970's this property was Swallowtail Studios, a famous glass blowers cooperative. The Grateful Dead played in the barn and hung out here...their manager lived just down the road. The barn is redwood, quite large and beautiful, with stained glass windows."
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from 
$156
 / night
 Property entrance at sunset, Spring.

17. Delta Respite

100%
(92)
34mi from Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve · 1 site · Lodging · Sherman Island, CA
The perfect solo escape! Treat yourself to a quiet getaway for one at this cozy, clean and comfortable cabin on our rural farm, between two rivers, on Sherman Island. Located in the eastern San Francisco Bay Area at the confluence of the San Joaquin River, Sacramento River, and the eastern terminus of San Francisco Bay, Sherman Island is known for its wildlife, sunrises, and sunsets, and its dark sky for stargazing opportunities. The property is surrounded by alfalfa fields, grazing cattle, sheep, and a wildland habitat populated with migratory and native birds, animals, and plants. The one-room cabin has a bed and clawfoot bathtub with hot water offering a peaceful escape on our 5-acre tree-lined farm. Here you can listen to birdsong instead of the sounds of the city. This is an ideal cabin for birdwatchers, writers, plein air painters, nature photographers, stargazing, windsurfers/kiteboarders, meditation, or some stress-free, peaceful reset time. The private cottage has a refrigerator, microwave, compostable dinnerware, drinking water, and a coffeemaker with coffee. It is air-conditioned in summer and heated in winter. Pets are welcome and free to enjoy being off-leash in the cabin's fenced yard. The hosts raise free-range chickens and bees on their farm and also conduct a nonprofit rescue and hospice for senior pets. The property is in the Pacific Migratory Flyway, surrounded by a 1000-acre State habitat/preserve populated by wildlife and seasonal birds. Downtown San Francisco and Sacramento are each about 50 miles away in opposite directions. Mount Diablo, viewed from the property, is about 15 miles south and offers hiking trails with stunning views and abundant wildlife. Friday bookings are for a minimum of 2 nights.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$145
 / night
Winery Camping

19. Winery Camping

92%
(154)
36mi from Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve · 12 sites · RVs · Livermore, CA
Set up and camp with us at Leisure Street Winery. Where you can taste some wine and purchase a bottle or so to sit out on the patio and watch the sunset go down.  Ride your bike into town grab some lunch at one of our mom and pop restaurants.  Golf at the golf course 5 minutes away.  We have horse shoes, corn hole and other fun stuff to do.  Some weekends we have live music!Our property is located in Livermore Wine Country.  The property is located 5 minutes from Downtown Livermore and 8 minutes away from Lake Del Valle. Livermore is California's oldest wine region, framed by award-winning wineries, farm lands, and ranches that mirror the valley's western heritage. The property is located on 5 acres and home of Leisure Street Winery.  Any questions please contact us.  Thanks. Rick & Kelly Volpatti
Pets
from 
$55
 / night
The Ranch at Cross Road

20. The Ranch at Cross Road

96%
(659)
36mi from Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Livermore, CA
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 15 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."
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve adventure.

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The best camping in Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve, CA guide

Overview

About

Embrace the coastal charm of Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve, a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Here, the San Francisco Bay unfolds in a scenic display of wildlife and water-based activities. Venture along the bike and hiking trails, cast a line in the fishing areas, or simply enjoy the panoramic views and nature's serenity. With windsurfing, surfing, and ample picnic spots, every visit promises a new adventure.

When to go

The best time to visit Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the wildlife is active. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it can be busier. Winter may bring cooler temperatures and fewer visitors, offering a more solitary experience.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's official website for the latest updates on park hours and any potential closures before planning your visit.
  • While dogs are allowed, ensure they are on a leash for the safety of wildlife and fellow visitors.
  • Remember to bring water and sun protection, as drinking water is available and the California sun can be intense.
  • Be mindful of park rules and regulations to preserve the natural beauty and wildlife of the reserve.
  • Accessibility may vary throughout the park, so visitors with specific needs should inquire ahead for proper accommodations.

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