Mount Tamalpais State Park Camping

Mount Tamalpais State Park is a premier camping destination in Marin County, just north of San Francisco, offering diverse camping experiences across five campgrounds. With over 50 miles of hiking trails, spectacular views, and easy access to coastal and forested areas, Mount Tamalpais State Park camping is perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and families seeking outdoor adventures.

Overview of Campgrounds at Mount Tamalpais State Park

1. Steep Ravine Campground

• Campsites: 10 rustic cabins and 7 primitive tent sites.

• Location: Next to the Pacific Ocean with incredible views.

• Features: The cabins are basic but cozy, with no electricity or running water. The tent sites offer a more primitive experience with vault toilets. A shared restroom with flush toilets is available for cabin campers. Steep Ravine Beach is accessible via a nearby trail, making this one of the most scenic Mount Tamalpais camping options.

• Reservations: Required for both cabins and campsites.

• Cell Service: Generally good.

• Pets: Not allowed.

2. Pantoll Campground

• Campsites: 16 walk-in tent sites.

• Location: Nestled in a Douglas fir forest near the Pantoll Day Use Area.

• Features: Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, BBQ pedestal, and food storage locker. Flush toilets and potable water are available at the nearby parking area. This campground is ideal for hikers, with easy access to several of Mount Tamalpais State Park's most popular trails.

• Access: First-come, first-serve.

• Pets: Allowed in designated areas on a leash.

3. Bootjack Campground

• Campsites: 15 walk-in tent sites.

• Location: Situated in the heart of the park, near the Bootjack Trail.

• Features: Like Pantoll, Bootjack offers walk-in tent sites with a short distance from the parking lot. Each site includes a table, fire ring, and potable water. Flush toilets are also available near the parking area. Bootjack is an excellent base for exploring trails that connect to nearby Muir Woods National Monument.

• Access: First-come, first-serve.

• Pets: Allowed on a leash.

4. Alice Eastwood Group Camp

• Campsites: Two group sites accommodating 25-50 people each.

• Features: This group campsite includes large tent areas, picnic tables, and grills, ideal for family gatherings or group outings.

• Reservations: Required.

5. Frank Valley Group Horse Camp

• Campsites: Group camping for equestrians.

• Features: Located near Muir Beach, this campsite offers corrals, horse troughs, picnic tables, and pit toilets, making it an ideal option for horseback riders looking to explore Mount Tamalpais State Park's fire roads and equestrian trails.

• Access: First-come, first-serve.

• Pets: Allowed in designated areas on a leash.

Camping Activities and Trails

Camping at Mount Tamalpais State Park offers much more than just a place to pitch a tent. The park is renowned for its scenic hiking trails, such as the Dipsea Trail and Steep Ravine Trail, which offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, San Francisco Bay, and nearby Mount Diablo. Trails connect to Muir Woods National Monument and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, expanding the adventure beyond the park's boundaries.

Outdoor activities include:

• Hiking and backpacking

• Mountain biking

• Horseback riding

• Wildlife viewing and birdwatching

• Picnicking at scenic viewpoints

• For those who love water activities, Steep Ravine Campground offers access to beachcombing, surf fishing, and whale watching.

Best Time for Camping at Mount Tamalpais

Mount Tamalpais State Park camping is available year-round, but spring and summer are the most popular seasons. The warmer months offer pleasant weather, with temperatures reaching the 80s and 90s. Fall and winter can be cooler, with temperatures in the 50s. Be sure to arrive early, especially on weekends, as the campgrounds can fill up quickly.

Facilities and Accessibility

Each campground offers basic amenities, including picnic tables, fire rings, food storage lockers, and restrooms. Pantoll and Bootjack campgrounds feature accessible camping, and there are wheelchair-accessible trails, including the Verna Dunshee Trail at East Peak. Cabin #1 and campsite #7 at Steep Ravine are also accessible.

For visitors with disabilities, it’s recommended to contact the Pantoll Visitor Services Kiosk before your trip.

Tips for Camping at Mount Tamalpais State Park

• Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot at the first-come, first-serve campgrounds.

• Check the weather beforehand, as conditions can vary depending on elevation and proximity to the coast.

• Observe park regulations: Drones, off-leash pets, and mushroom collecting are prohibited, and fires are only allowed in designated fire rings.

• Parking: Some parking areas require a state park fee, while others, such as Whitegate Ranch and Coast View Trailhead, are free.

Why Choose Mount Tamalpais State Park Camping?

Camping at Mount Tamalpais State Park is a top choice for anyone looking to explore the Bay Area's natural beauty. With campgrounds offering everything from rustic cabins to equestrian group camping, the park provides a unique mix of wilderness experiences. Whether you're hiking through redwood forests, watching the sun set over the Pacific, or stargazing from a tent, Mount Tamalpais is an unforgettable destination for campers of all kinds.

For more information on reservations and amenities, visit the official Mount Tamalpais State Park camping page or use the Reserve California platform to secure your campsite.