The best camping near Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Golden Gate National Recreation Area adventure.

98% (71 reviews)
98% (71 reviews)

Hike in Muir Woods or rattle the bars at Alcatraz with a visit to the City by the Bay.  

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Stay at a public campground in Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Golden Gate National Recreation Area

98%
(369)

Blackberry Farm

6 sites · Lodging, Tents6 acres · Bolinas, CA
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. The pizza oven is not available for campground use. 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.
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$66
 / night
97%
(3379)

Salmon Creek Ranch

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents400 acres · Bodega Bay, CA
Located within 45 minutes of the wine country and 2 miles from the coast, our property is 400 acres of rolling hills and redwood groves, with a creek running along its base. With miles of trails meandering through quiet woods and meadows, you will be able to revel in the tranquility of a private preserve, without sacrificing easy access to some of Sonoma County's most famous attractions. A hundred years ago, this land was used to graze sheep. Remnants of the old fence lines can still be seen in places, along with old cement troughs. Since then, the land has been left to its own devices, passing through many hands, most famously owned by two brothers in the 1980's who built a truly amazing tree house in the forest which has been featured in several magazine articles. It was revamped and updated in 2016 by a master craftsman, using fallen redwood logs found on the property and is now a unique structural work of art, available for overnight stays. We produce 100% grass fed, dry-aged beef on our certified organic pastures and have a store on site if you would like to purchase delicious steaks, ribs, ground beef for hamburgers or some roasts to take home. Our cattle graze on the native grasses, never grain, and drink only water produced from our own springs. We also raise Kiko meat goats and produce pastured, certified organic duck eggs on a commercial basis. Whether it's surfing at sandy beaches, award-winning clam chowder, a wine tour, horseback riding or a hot air balloon ride you're after, you won't have far to drive if you make our ranch your base camp. You may see a family of deer appear suddenly, or a few Scottish Highland cows which we allow to roam freely over the property. There are over twenty species of wild birds that grace this protected spot, so bring your binoculars! A portion of your fee goes towards protecting native flora and fauna as part of our private wildlife preservation program. A limited number of private, widely spaced camp spots are available for visitors. The Eagles' Nest Treehouse (mentioned above) is very isolated and you may or may not even be aware that there are other people within miles of you. For those who value nature, seclusion, quiet and the artistry of old growth redwood, this is the place for you.
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$96
 / night
99%
(104)

Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch

1 site · Lodging350 acres · Loma Mar, CA
Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) protects open space on the Peninsula and in the South Bay for the benefit of all. Situated on top of a ridge with expansive redwood forest and coastal views, the Audrey Edna Cabin provides a completely private gathering place and destination for visitors with reservations. The cabin has spectacular views of forest, sky, ocean and the Butano ridgeline. It's a short hike to 8000+ acres of county parkland where you can hike, bike and ride horses (though please note, there are no facilities for horse boarding at the cabin.) The cabin is located at Alpine Ranch, a property adjacent to Sam McDonald County Park that was protected by Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST).  Whether you are looking for an active experience or just want to relax in a peaceful, remote setting, there's something here for everyone. This is a rustic hike-in cabin designed for a introductory pack-in experience. Bedding is not provided. It is about a 1.7-mile hike on a rolling dirt road from the Sam McDonald County Park parking lot, with about 650 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers can reach the cabin in an hour or less. Guests should plan to arrive at least 2 hours before sunset, and pack water and flashlights or headlamps. Guests with limited mobility, please contact us for information regarding accommodations that will allow you to access this shared resource. *A note about reservation availability: On the weekends, POST offers priority reservations for the cabin to our partners at the San Mateo County Health Department and Park Rx to provide patients with equitable access to the benefits of nature. Occasionally, we have last-minute public weekend reservation availability due to cancellations. The cabin is reservable up to 3 months in advance, on a rolling basis. Love the idea of a hike-in cabin, but unable to visit us Sunday-Thursday? Check out the nearby Sierra Club Hiker's Hut in Sam McDonald County Park.  Property History: 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
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100%
(24)

Kings Mountain Camp w/ ocean views

4 sites · Lodging10 acres · Woodside, CA
Breathe deep in nature on our 10-acre property on a hillside in Kings Mountain, California. 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 lots of little touches will make your stay unique. 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, which are ideal for light cooking, intimate fireside storytelling, and warmth during cool mornings and evenings. 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. If you're interested in meeting our friendly farm animals, get in touch, and we'll be delighted to arrange a visit at a time that works best for you and them. 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 allocated bathhouses, where you’ll find an indoor shower and well-appointed restrooms. They are nicely lit and stocked with bath products. Additionally, a sink area is available for dish clean-up. Kings Mountain is famous for its hiking and biking trails nested amongst the redwoods. The closest is a 15-minute walk from our campsite, and dozens of others are within a 15-minute car ride. Tent 01 (180sqft) accommodates three people in a queen-size bed and a daybed. Tent 02 (210sqft) accommodates four people: two in a queen-size bed and two in a bunk bed Tent 03 (210sqft) accommodates four people: two in a queen-size bed and two in a twin bed + daybed Children: Kids under the age of 10 are not allowed. An adult must accompany minors under 21 YO.
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$152
 / night
99%
(298)

The Olive Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · 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.
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$126
 / night
99%
(1588)

Finley Camp

14 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Bodega Bay, CA
Finley Camp is nestled along Finley Creek in West Sonoma County. Campsites are located in open flats surrounded by Coast Doug Fir, Alder, and California Bay forests. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire pit with cooking grate, and access to a porta potty and hand washing station. The campsites are located past the end of the county road allowing for a quiet peaceful experience. Enjoy a quiet stroll on site, the surrounding communities of Bodega, Bodega Bay, Valley Ford, and Tomales, or just enjoy a quiet day in camp. Our sites are located approximately 20 minutes from Bodega Bay. The campsites are 2.5 miles from the coast and the weather can be unpredictable. As a general rule, it is very similar to that of San Francisco. All camp sites are situated in a valley that offers protection from the coastal winds. The have both morning and evening shade. Sites #2, #6, #7, and #11 have the most space, while sites #4, #7, #8, #9 and #11 offer the most privacy. Sites 1-3, any combination of 5-7, and 12-13 are well suited for groups. Other site groupings work well depending on the number of sites being reserved. Site #8 is unique in that it has a wood deck/platform for tents. There are also NO wood fires allowed at site #8 as it is under the tree canopy. A propane firepit is provided for your use. You can bring a 5 gallon propane tank from home, or a full one is available for rent on site. We have beef available for purchase from calves raised exclusively on our ranch. This beef is 100% grass fed and finished and never given grain of any kind. We have various cuts available such as steaks, ground, roasts, ribs, or other various specialty cuts. All beef is cut and wrapped by a USDA certified butcher. It is raised in an organic manner from cows that freely roam on the pastures of the coastal hills we call home. For further information or for a price sheet, please inquire with the camp host. Well behaved dogs are welcome at Finley Camp. All dogs must be kept on leash at all times while on the property. There are no exceptions to this. Finley Camp is located on an active cattle ranch and directly adjacent to a neighboring ranch with cattle. Also be sure to check out our orchard tours. The apples ripen from Late July thru late November. We'll take you to our family orchard where you can pick apples, pears, or blueberries in season and taste yummy treats out of our family garden.
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$85.50
 / night
95%
(430)

Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Glamping

7 sites · Lodging4750 acres · Kenwood, CA
We have four lovely Glamping sites at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, nestled in the glorious chaparral of the Mayacama Mountain Range and Sonoma Hills, deep in the heart of wine country. In our family-friendly campground, we installed three 16-Foot Canvas Glamping Tents, replete with warm and cozy furnishings, and other amenities you will love. The cost is $150 per night on weekends (Fri and Sat) and $125 per night on weekdays (Sun-Thurs). There is a 2-night minimum stay required between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Each canvas tent comes with a queen-size bed, futon lounge chairs, rugs, tables, lighting, and complementary firewood the first night. At no additional cost, we can add up to two twin beds to each tent upon request to sleep up to 6 people. 8 people max allowed at the campsite. The glamping sites include a picnic table, fire ring, outdoor seating, and room for your additional tents if desired. All sites are easy walking distance to flush toilets and a bathhouse, with large, clean, coin operated hot shower rooms. There is no cell service in the park, but free WiFi is available at the Visitor Center. PLEASE NOTE that Bedding (sheets, pillows, blankets) IS NOT included in a standard rental, but is available as an add-on. Guests are encouraged to bring their own bedding whenever possible. If no bedding is added, we will assume a one-queen setup with mattress covers only. We kindly ask guests to provide at least 48-hour notice if bedding will be required. We will always try to accommodate last-minute requests, but we cannot guarantee this. PETS and SMOKING ARE NOT ALLOWED INSIDE our glamping tents! This is strictly enforced, and you WILL be charged a $150 cleaning fee for any violation of this policy. Parking: Your reservation includes parking for one vehicle. There is an additional $10 per night per vehicle charge for more than one vehicle, which you can pay for at the Visitor's Center upon check-in. Please note that a $25 setup/cleaning fee is charged per reservation, plus a booking fee. Since 2012, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park has been operated by a band of non-profits, spearheaded by The Sonoma Ecology Center, known as Team Sugarloaf. Team Sugarloaf's efforts have resulted in a revitalized park that engages with all of our community and welcomes visitors from all over the country and the world.
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$75
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Booked 5 times

Venture Retreat Center

12 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Pescadero, CA
Nestled among ancient redwoods at the end of winding Eden West Road, along the edge of Little Butano Creek, Venture is a NorCal hidden gem. Our roots are in the 1960s counterculture movement and we've long served as a haven for spiritual exploration, self-discovery, and personal growth. Just an hour’s drive from San Francisco, San Jose, and Santa Cruz, our special spot is the most serene escape when you're seeking respite, relaxation, or reconnection with nature. The campus offers a mix of dispersed charming cabins, a serene yurt, camping sites, and glamping tents. You can immerse yourself in the lush forest that surrounds us, soak up the sun, and explore creek-side beauty. Gather around the warmth of an evening fire or drum circle and enjoy the dusk and starshine coming on. Just down the street is Pescadero proper. A sweet little spot (nine hundred strong) and California coast perfection. You'll find gorgeous scenery, local food and drink, neat landmarks, beautiful places to hike and explore, fun galleries, and really, really good people. Ask us for our favorite spots, we’re more than happy to share!
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$71.20
 / night

The best camping near Golden Gate National Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

Spanning several counties and various tracts of land, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area is a must visit. Learn more about the infamous prison on Alcatraz Island or view the Point Bonita Lighthouse. This lighthouse was the last manned lighthouse in California. At Fort Point, explore the base that protected California from the Gold Rush to World War II.

More than 13 million people visit the areas run by the Nation Park Service. Enjoy cooler weather and massive old-growth redwood trees as you hike to the Muir Woods National Monument. The two most popular sights along the trail are Cathedral Grove and Bohemian Grove — don't forget your camera. Discover California's Cold War Past at the Nike Missile Site with a tour of the museum.

The parks conservancy offers four different campsites in different locations. You can reserve a spot online. Watch the stars from the group camping area in the Presidio.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Golden Gate National Recreation Area is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer often brings fog, which can obscure views, while winter may present rain and colder temperatures. Plan your visit for mid-week to avoid the weekend crowds.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's website for current alerts and conditions before your visit.
  • Accessibility resources are available; inquire ahead to ensure a smooth experience.
  • Download the NPS app for detailed information and maps of the park.
  • Remember, Golden Gate is one of the most dog-friendly national parks, but check where your furry friends are allowed.
  • Visitor centers operate from 8:30am to 5pm; plan accordingly to make the most of your trip.

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