Bicentennial Campground

4.39

195 reviews

Bicentennial Campground, Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Quick Facts

13 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Opens Golden Gate National Recreation Area site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

13 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Opens Golden Gate National Recreation Area site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Bicentennial Campground

$25.00 - $25.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Tent-only, non-electric campsites are available for $25 per night. Reservation fees may apply for bookings made online ($8), via contact center ($9),...

Standard Site Fee$25.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

415-331-1540goga_marinheadlands_info@nps.gov

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What Campers Say

4.39

Recommended

Based on 195 reviews

17 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietcleansites

Some mention

noise

"Reviews highlight the campground's stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and proximity to San Francisco as major draws. However, challenges include the steep trail to the campsites, lack of water, and windy conditions. Many users recommend the campground for its tranquility and unique location, but caution that it may not be suitable for inexperienced campers."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Bicentennial Campground, Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Bicentennial Campground

Bicentennial Campground, Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Driving directionsUpon entering the Marin Headlands, drive approximately 2 miles on Bunker Rd. Turn left onto Field Rd, and drive less than 0.5 miles uphill and make a left turn onto Rathbone Rd. There will then be an immediate right onto a one way road. You will see signs for Bicentennial Campground. Either parallel park on the road or in the small dirt pull-out.

The campground is accessible via paved roads up to the parking area. The trail to the campsites is a packed dirt path approximately 200 yards downhill, which makes accessibility challenging for individuals with mobility issues or for carrying heavy camping gear.

Nearby places

Sausalito (15 minutes by car), San Francisco (about 20 minutes by car)

Nearby supplies

Sausalito is the closest town with access to groceries, camping supplies, and fuel, approximately a 20-minute drive from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Bicentennial Campground

The campground's coastal location creates a dynamic weather experience that changes with each passing hour. Persistent ocean breezes sweep across the bluffs throughout the year, growing stronger as darkness falls and creating a symphony of rustling cypress branches. Morning and evening fog often rolls in like a living blanket, temporarily veiling the spectacular views in mysterious beauty before burning off to reveal the stunning vistas once more. While rain rarely interrupts camping plans, the maritime climate brings crisp temperatures that can surprise unprepared visitors, especially during winter and spring nights when the thermometer dips low enough to see your breath in the moonlight.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Summer fog often obscures views though campground is open year-round.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall is favorable with clearer weather and moderate temperatures per reviews.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring favored for moderate temps and clearer conditions, per seasonal reviews.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Winter brings heavy rain and strong winds; reviewers note it's less ideal then.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 1 - December 31 (peak pricing applies year-round).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round (January 1 - December 31).
Current Alerts: Potential fire restrictions apply during wildfire season; check Recreational Fire Regulations before grilling.

About Bicentennial Campground

Perched among windswept cypress trees on the dramatic Marin Headlands, Bicentennial Campground offers an intimate tent-camping experience where the wilderness meets the city. This secluded haven rewards adventurers with breathtaking panoramas of the Golden Gate Bridge glowing against San Francisco's skyline, while Pacific waves crash against the rugged coastline below. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape without venturing far from urban comforts, this small campground serves as a tranquil basecamp for hikers exploring the headlands' extensive trail network.

Bicentennial Campground is a tent-only, walk-in facility with a limit of three campsites. The campground does not accommodate RVs or car camping, and there are no options for group camping, cabins, or glamping.

Historical SignificanceCamping at Bicentennial means sleeping atop layers of fascinating military history. The surrounding Marin Headlands serve as an outdoor museum of America's coastal defense heritage, featuring massive 20th-century gun batteries that once guarded the Golden Gate. Nearby, the historic Point Bonita Lighthouse has guided mariners since the 1850s, while the preserved Nike Missile Site SF-88 offers a glimpse into Cold War tensions. These remarkable sites transform a simple camping trip into a journey through time, where each trail might lead to concrete fortifications or hidden bunkers with stories to tell.

Weather and SeasonsThe campground's coastal location creates a dynamic weather experience that changes with each passing hour. Persistent ocean breezes sweep across the bluffs throughout the year, growing stronger as darkness falls and creating a symphony of rustling cypress branches. Morning and evening fog often rolls in like a living blanket, temporarily veiling the spectacular views in mysterious beauty before burning off to reveal the stunning vistas once more. While rain rarely interrupts camping plans, the maritime climate brings crisp temperatures that can surprise unprepared visitors, especially during winter and spring nights when the thermometer dips low enough to see your breath in the moonlight.

ElevationThe campground occupies a privileged position atop the coastal bluffs, where rolling headlands meet the endless Pacific. This elevated vantage point places campers high above the crashing waves, offering commanding views that stretch from the Farallon Islands to the East Bay hills.

Natural Features and SceneryNature's grandeur unfolds in every direction from this cypress-sheltered sanctuary. The iconic Golden Gate Bridge frames the eastern horizon like a rust-colored masterpiece, while San Francisco Bay sparkles beneath its span. To the west, the vast Pacific Ocean stretches endlessly, its moods shifting from serene blue to tempestuous gray. The protective cypress grove creates a natural amphitheater where campers share their space with the headlands' wild residents – clever raccoons that emerge at dusk, coyotes whose haunting calls echo through the night, graceful deer browsing in nearby meadows, and wise owls hooting from their hidden perches.

Geological RegionBicentennial Campground sits within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty. The Marin Headlands' dramatic coastal bluffs tell a story written in stone and soil, rising from the confluence of San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Sheltering cypress groves cling to these windswept heights, framing panoramic vistas that encompass both the raw power of the open ocean and the glittering expanse of one of the world's most beautiful bays.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in is allowed any time after 12:00 PM.

Check-out

Check-out is required by 12:00 PM.

Stay Limit

Up to 3 consecutive nights per visit, and 3 nights total per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 3 guests per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThree campsites are positioned closely within a grove of cypress trees. Each site has a tent pad, picnic table, grill, and food storage locker.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned; reservations are recommended due to limited sites.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the reservation start date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (after midnight local time one day prior to check-in) forfeit the first night's use fee in addition to the cancellation fee.

AccessibilityThe 200-yard trail to the campsites is moderately steep and packed dirt. Accessibility may be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations.

Site SizeEach site includes a small leveled tent pad, with some users noting that larger tents may not fit.

PrivacyCampsites are close together (~50 feet apart) and lack significant privacy. However, the surrounding cypress grove offers some seclusion.

Total Campsites3 campsites

Recommended SitesVisitors recommend bringing a wagon for heavy gear and earplugs for fog horns. Sites are close together; renting all three ensures privacy.

Amenities available

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground is ideally situated for hiking and exploring the Marin Headlands. Activities include camping, hiking, mountain biking, and visiting nearby historic sites such as the Point Bonita Lighthouse, the Nike Missile Site, and coastal defense gun batteries. The site also offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and enjoying scenic vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco.

HikingNumerous trails in the Marin Headlands offer varying difficulty levels and scenic views. Day hikes to Rodeo Beach (1.5 miles) and Tennessee Cove are popular, and ambitious hikers can tackle a 9-mile trail to Muir Beach with significant elevation change.

BikingThe area is suitable for both biking and mountain biking. Users noted that the Marin Headlands' trails are popular with cyclists.

Wildlife viewingFrequent wildlife sightings include deer, raccoons, coyotes, owls, and hawks. Visitors are advised not to feed wildlife and to store food securely to prevent encounters.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsPrograms include ranger-led tours of the Nike Missile Site and Point Bonita Lighthouse. Seasonal birding and history hikes are also offered.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsFrequent strong winds and occasional wildlife encounters (coyotes, raccoons) can pose challenges. Poison oak is present, especially near trails.

Active AlertsPotential fire restrictions apply during wildfire season; check Recreational Fire Regulations before grilling.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Food Storage RequiredSpacious bear-proof lockers are available at each site for secure storage of food and scented items.

Fire PolicyWood fires are prohibited; only gas stoves and charcoal grills may be used.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesFor emergencies, call 911 or Park Dispatch at (415) 561-5656. The nearest staffed emergency services are located in Sausalito.

Trash & RecyclingThe campground provides trash and recycling bins. Reviews indicate regular emptying and maintenance of these facilities.

Water FeaturesThe campground is approximately 1.5 miles from Rodeo Beach and overlooks San Francisco Bay.

Camp HostNo specific host information is provided.

Weather at Bicentennial Campground

Reviews

4.4

195 reviews

Recommended

Bicentennial Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews highlight the campground's stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and proximity to San Francisco as major draws. However, challenges include the steep trail to the campsites, lack of water, and windy conditions. Many users recommend the campground for its tranquility and unique location, but caution that it may not be suitable for inexperienced campers.

Review Summaries

Based on 195 reviews

What Campers Love

• 'This tiny gem of only three campsites above the mouth of the Golden Gate Bridge is a must visit.' • 'Spectacular sunrise views over the Golden Gate Bridge.' • 'Quiet, clean, and private.'

Based on 195 reviews

Common Concerns

• 'No water available at the campground.' • 'Wind speeds and chill can be intense.' • 'Campsites are close together with limited privacy.'

Based on 195 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

• Bring a rolling cart for transporting supplies up and down the trail. • Prepare for wind and cold weather; bring earplugs for fog horns. • Ensure all food is stored securely in bear-proof lockers...

Based on 195 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and Fall are the most favorable seasons for camping due to moderate temperatures and clearer weather. Winter sees heavy rain and wind, making it less ideal. Summer fog can obscure views, but...

Based on 195 reviews

Camper Quotes

• 'Billion dollar view for $20 a night.' • 'The campsite was charming and beautiful. I enjoyed hiking and the beautiful views.' • 'You can see the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco from the...

Based on 195 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

• Site 3: Noted for the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge but slightly unlevel tent pads. • Site 2: Full sun exposure, windy conditions, and proximity to the picnic area. • Site 1: Closest to the...

Based on 195 reviews