The best camping in Mount Tamalpais State Park, CA

·
96% (207)

See redwoods, trail run, and climb the Bay Area’s second tallest peak.  

The best camping in Mount Tamalpais State Park, CA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Dispersed tent-only camping in the "dome meadow"

6. Slide Ranch

96%
(156)
1.9mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Cooking equipment
from 
$50
 / night
Bay View "Tree House"

7. Bay View "Tree House"

100%
(11)
8.9mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$205
 / night
Sleep Up High In A Redwood Tree-net

8. Sleep Up High In A Redwood Tree-net

97%
(89)
9mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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
Trash
from 
$90
 / night
Golden hour laps

9. The Olive Farm

99%
(365)
15mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$126
 / night
Swallowtail Historic Art Studio

10. Swallowtail Historic Art Studio

97%
(333)
22mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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."
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$156
 / night
Morning tent view.

11. Studdert Family Farm

98%
(81)
25mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$128
 / night
Camp Westy Wine Country

14. Camp Westy Wine Country

91%
(11)
28mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$65
 / night
Estero San Antonio Wonderland

17. Estero San Antonio Wonderland

97%
(696)
31mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 15 sites · Tents, Lodging · Tomales, CA
Primitive and RV Sites with sweeping views of West Marin pastureland at True Grass Farms, a working ranch along the Estero San Antonio. Our campsites are well spaced for privacy and quiet, surrounded by birdsong, grazing animals, and the rhythms of ranch life. Each primitive site overlooks the Estero and is near a mowed grass road for easy access. It’s peaceful here at night—other campers may be nearby, but you’ll feel immersed in nature. Enjoy access to our open pastures for picnics and leisurely walks. At check-in, we’ll point you toward a few special places around the ranch and nearby area. We also offer a variety of grass-finished beef, lamb, pork, eggs, and vegetables grown and raised right here on the ranch. Primitive sites are back-to-basics: no hookups, no structures, no potable water. There is non-potable water available for washing—please bring your own drinking water. A shared composting toilet is available to all campers. A liability waiver must be signed at check-in. Winds can be strong in spring and summer, but sites are placed on the leeward side for protection. Fires are permitted when conditions allow—check with us on arrival. We’re just 10 minutes from Tomales, 15 from Valley Ford, and 3.5 miles from Dillon Beach. Bring a kayak or canoe and paddle from camp to the Pacific via the Estero. Looking for more comfort? We offer two RV sites: The Heron’s Nest is a cozy trailer tucked under a large willow, just 10 feet from the water. It includes a queen bed, kitchenette, indoor composting toilet, outdoor shower, firepit, and direct Estero access—perfect for two guests. The Badger’s Den is a private full trailer with a queen bed, kitchen, dining area, indoor shower, and composting toilet—plus a private sauna, in-ground firepit, and peaceful surroundings. Adults only. We care deeply for this land and invite guests who feel the same. Visit True Grass Farms online to learn more about our work and philosophy.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$68
 / night
Entrance address

18. The Meadow Grove of Hands Full Farm

95%
(1031)
32mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Valley Ford, CA
The Meadow Grove is a wild and natural pasture with campsites located near the historic Narrow Gauge Railroad bed on a family owned working ranch in coastal Northern California. The camp sites are nestled in a pasture and grove of mixed Eucalyptus, willow and cypress trees. The sites are perfect for tents or camper vans, or small trailers. [When we open in the spring, the grass can be 'slippery' and it is recommended you have 4WD. Around mid-June it is dried out enough for 2WD access to all sites]. Not suitable for RVs It is also, managed and operated by a single mother. Please keep this in mind. Notes about the campsites are: They each come with a picnic table. The grounds are a working ranch, so there is variations of the soil- some lumps and bumps and general natural state of a pasture v. a groomed lawn. Site #1, #2, #3, and #4 have the most level areas for parking and tent-ing. Up until mid-June, we recommend #1 for 2WD access. Campervans that do not have 4WD may have trouble accessing other sites. Please remember this when you book! *Campers who "change sites" without written approval by the host will be charged double!* There is a composting camp toilet, we do not have running water at the campground. The ranch itself is 300 acres of rolling hills pasture, with hilltop views of the Estero Americano valley. The Meadow Grove is home to many varieties of raptors and other birds-providing excellent bird watching. Seasonally there are blackberries to fill your containers, and some hiking. We are mere minutes from the quaint towns of Valley Ford, Tomales, and Dillon Beach, and a short drive from Bodega, Bodega Bay or Marshall, Pt. Reyes Station and Inverness. Nearby attractions include: Sonoma Coast beaches, Pt. Reyes National Seashore, coastal hiking trails, local farm-to-table eateries. Inland attractions include: redwoods, wine tasting, Russian River activities and so much more. The ranch borders Hwy 1, so there is some degree of road noise. Traffic usually dies down mid afternoon, and isn't too much of a disturbance. Virtually all traffic on our stretch of road is daytime traffic. There can be however, some heavy weekend traffic during the day with car clubs and motorcycle riders enjoying the coastal highway. *The Friendly Gray Cat's name is Boots!*
Pets
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Golden hour was the perfect time for us to spend time outdoors while the weather was still warm.

20. Glamping Experiences Napa Valley

100%
(19)
32mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$125
 / night
96% (207)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Mount Tamalpais State Park adventure.

Camper favorites near Mount Tamalpais State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Slide Ranch

96%
(156)
1.9mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Cooking equipment
from 
$50
 / night

Bay View "Tree House"

100%
(11)
8.9mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$205
 / night

Sleep Up High In A Redwood Tree-net

97%
(89)
9mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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
Trash
from 
$90
 / night

The Olive Farm

99%
(365)
15mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$126
 / night

Swallowtail Historic Art Studio

97%
(333)
22mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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."
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$156
 / night

Studdert Family Farm

98%
(81)
25mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$128
 / night

Camp Westy Wine Country

91%
(11)
28mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 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
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$65
 / night

Estero San Antonio Wonderland

97%
(696)
31mi from Mount Tamalpais State Park · 15 sites · Tents, Lodging · Tomales, CA
Primitive and RV Sites with sweeping views of West Marin pastureland at True Grass Farms, a working ranch along the Estero San Antonio. Our campsites are well spaced for privacy and quiet, surrounded by birdsong, grazing animals, and the rhythms of ranch life. Each primitive site overlooks the Estero and is near a mowed grass road for easy access. It’s peaceful here at night—other campers may be nearby, but you’ll feel immersed in nature. Enjoy access to our open pastures for picnics and leisurely walks. At check-in, we’ll point you toward a few special places around the ranch and nearby area. We also offer a variety of grass-finished beef, lamb, pork, eggs, and vegetables grown and raised right here on the ranch. Primitive sites are back-to-basics: no hookups, no structures, no potable water. There is non-potable water available for washing—please bring your own drinking water. A shared composting toilet is available to all campers. A liability waiver must be signed at check-in. Winds can be strong in spring and summer, but sites are placed on the leeward side for protection. Fires are permitted when conditions allow—check with us on arrival. We’re just 10 minutes from Tomales, 15 from Valley Ford, and 3.5 miles from Dillon Beach. Bring a kayak or canoe and paddle from camp to the Pacific via the Estero. Looking for more comfort? We offer two RV sites: The Heron’s Nest is a cozy trailer tucked under a large willow, just 10 feet from the water. It includes a queen bed, kitchenette, indoor composting toilet, outdoor shower, firepit, and direct Estero access—perfect for two guests. The Badger’s Den is a private full trailer with a queen bed, kitchen, dining area, indoor shower, and composting toilet—plus a private sauna, in-ground firepit, and peaceful surroundings. Adults only. We care deeply for this land and invite guests who feel the same. Visit True Grass Farms online to learn more about our work and philosophy.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$68
 / night

Other options near Mount Tamalpais State Park

The best camping in Mount Tamalpais State Park, CA guide

Overview

About

Just across Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, Mount Tamalpais State Park offers Bay Area residents a wilderness oasis of peaks, beaches, trails, and redwood trees. The park’s North Bay campgrounds are the perfect way to access the adventure potential of the foggy, forested, 2,571-foot coastal mountain known locally as Mount Tam. Once here, there are 60 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails to explore, and campers can also go surfing, fishing, and whale watching at Mount Tam’s beach section. The Mount Tamalpais summit provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Farallon Islands, and the East Bay’s Mount Diablo—especially at sunrise and sunset. Although a separate entity, the adjacent tourist-favorite Muir Woods National Monument features an easily accessible old growth coastal redwood grove.

Notable campgrounds

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Both Pantoll Campground (16 sites) and Bootjack Campground (15 sites) offer first-come, first-served campsites. We recommend arriving early or on a weekday to secure a site.
  2. The Steep Ravine Cabins and Campground sites are extremely popular and frequently book out as soon as reservations are released 6 months in advance. You’ll want to be ready and waiting when reservations open up, either online or by calling (800) 444-7275.

When to go

Camping at Mount Tamalpais State Park is possible year-round, but the park’s cabins are closed in October. Keep an eye out for whales in winter and spring, the latter of which is also great for waterfalls and wildflowers. Visit East Peak or West Peak at nearly any time of year to witness San Francisco's famous fog roll in beneath you. The mild temperatures are comfortable year-round, but it’s best to bring a jacket and rain gear for the area’s many microclimates.

Know before you go

  • To see redwood trees, hike the Steep Ravine Trail along Webb Creek or visit the nearby Muir Woods National Monument.
  • Surf lessons and board rentals are available at nearby Stinson Beach, which is also great for laying out, swimming, and sunsets. 
  • The wilderness bordering Mount Tamalpais State Park, which includes the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, adds another 200 miles of trails to explore throughout the Marin Headlands. 
  • The sport of mountain biking was born on the slopes of Mount Tam in the 1970s, and many of the park’s trails are still MTB-accessible. Road cyclists will also be stoked on the park’s endless twists on the climb to Alpine Lake.
  • If you’re having trouble finding Mount Tam camping, Marin County Hipcamps around the nearby towns of Sausalito, Mill Valley, and San Rafael all have easy day-use access to the park.
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