How much does camping cost at Hawk Campground?

Camping fees at Hawk Campground range from $25/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Hawk Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Hawk Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Hawk Campground before I book?

Yes! Hawk Campground has 6 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Hawk Campground?

Hawk Campground is open March 06 to November 30. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Hawk Campground?

Hawk Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Hawk Campground?

Fire policies at Hawk Campground: No wood or charcoal fires allowed ; gas camp stoves are permitted.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Is there cell service at Hawk Campground?

Cell phone service at Hawk Campground is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Hawk Campground have?

Hawk Campground has 3 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Hawk Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Hawk Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Hawk Campground?

Hawk Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Hawk Campground

4.33

109 reviews

Hawk Campground, Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Sausalito, CA 94965

Top 10% in CASpring

Scenic Views

Featured in:Beach Camping California

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

846 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open from March 7–No...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

No Pets

Book on Golden Gate National Recreation Area Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

846 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open from March 7–No...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

No Pets

Book on Golden Gate National Recreation Area Official Website

Get Directions

Hawk Campground

$25.00 - $25.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Primitive Campsite: $25.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Hike and Bike Site Fee$25.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(415)-331-1540n/a

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Hawk Campground

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Campground Map

Hawk Campground, Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Sausalito, CA 94965

Hawk Campground

Hawk Campground, Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Sausalito, CA 94965

Nearby places

Sausalito (13 miles away, approximately 20 minutes drive)

Driving directionsFrom San Francisco (traveling north): Cross the Golden Gate Bridge and continue on the US-101 N. Take exit 445B toward Mill Valley/Stinson Beach. Continue straight until you can turn left onto Tennessee Valley Road. This road will dead-end at the Tennessee Valley Trailhead parking lot. From here, locate the white service gate near the stables and hike up Marincello Trail to the Hawk Camp Trail. From Marin (traveling south): From US-101 South, take exit 445B toward Stinson Beach. Turn right on CA-1 and continue straight until you can turn left onto Tennessee Valley Road. This road will dead-end at the Tennessee Valley Trailhead parking lot. From here, locate the white service gate near the stables and hike up Marincello Trail to Hawk Camp.

Weather at Hawk Campground

Current alerts(10)

Campground Quiet Hours are between 10 PM and 6 AM. Please be respectful to others.
For more information , call (415) 331-1540 or email us at goga_marinheadlands_info@nps.gov.
Hammocks tied on trees or structures are not permitted. Only free standing hammocks are allowed.
In Case of Emergency call 911 or Park Dispatch at (415) 561-5656.

Best Time to Camp at Hawk Campground

Best season: spring. Spring offers the best balance of mild weather, blooming coastal scrub, and active wildlife — ideal for the steep hike-in experience at Hawk Campground. Expect daytime highs around 60–65°F and nighttime lows near 50–55°F with morning fog that frequently burns off by late morning, making for comfortable hiking and excellent raptor and shorebird viewing. Trails and viewpoints show colorful wildflowers after winter rains and crowds are generally lighter than summer weekends, especially on weekdays. Peak months: May, April, June Avoid: December, January, February

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 10% in CA

Spring called best: mild temps, fog burns off, wildflowers and active raptors after rains.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March 06 to November 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from March 7–November 30 annually.

About Hawk Campground

Hawk Campground sits in the Marin Headlands within Golden Gate National Recreation Area, a steep hike-in site above Sausalito with sweeping views of San Francisco Bay. Managed by the National Park Service, this primitive campground attracts beginner backpackers seeking a quick escape from the city. The small site offers vault toilets, picnic tables, and maintained tent pads on a hillside known for raptors and coastal scrub.

Hawk Campground offers primitive tent camping only, catering to experienced backpackers. It is not accessible by vehicles, requiring a hike to reach the sites.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: spring. Spring offers the best balance of mild weather, blooming coastal scrub, and active wildlife — ideal for the steep hike-in experience at Hawk Campground. Expect daytime highs around 60–65°F and nighttime lows near 50–55°F with morning fog that frequently burns off by late morning, making for comfortable hiking and excellent raptor and shorebird viewing. Trails and viewpoints show colorful wildflowers after winter rains and crowds are generally lighter than summer weekends, especially on weekdays. Peak months: May, April, June Avoid: December, January, February

Elevation846 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits beneath Monterey cypress and pine trees, rooted in geology that traveled across the ocean floor over millions of years. Radiolarian chert outcrops show rusty reds and seafoam greens in the surrounding cliffs. Coastal scrub vegetation covers the slopes. The views stretch from black sand beaches below to the Marin Headlands and San Francisco. Hawks and raptors ride updrafts overhead. Deer, coyotes, and occasionally bobcats move through the area at dawn and dusk.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available at this primitive campground.

Programs & ActivitiesRanger-led programs are available, such as guided hikes and historical tours. Notable mentions include the Nike Missile Site tours and Point Bonita Lighthouse history chats.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 3 nights during a visit at this campground and up to 3 nights total within each calendar year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each site accommodates up to 4 guests.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed through Recreation.gov and can be booked online, via the app, or through the call center.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not specifically mentioned. The campground requires hiking uphill for access, which may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.

Site SizeSites are designed for small groups, with a maximum of 4 guests per site.

PrivacySites are reported to be relatively private, with one review noting sites #2 and #3 are connected, while site #1 is separate.

Total Campsites3 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 1 has privacy but is noted for rooty and uneven terrain. Sites 2 and 3 are better maintained and have easier access to amenities.

Best CampsitesSite #1 sits separate from the others and gets praised for privacy. Sites #2 and #3 connect to each other and share proximity to the vault toilet downhill. Reviewers note #2 and #3 have level ground and good tent pads, though some pads need maintenance.

Need help booking Hawk Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

There is no water available at this campground - campers must bring any water necessary for drinking, cooking, etc. No wood or charcoal fires allowed ; gas camp stoves are permitted.

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Hawk Campground is renowned for hiking and wildlife viewing. Trails lead to attractions like Tennessee Beach (4 miles), Rodeo Beach, and Point Bonita Lighthouse. The area is also suitable for birding and biking. With sweeping views of the Marin Headlands and opportunities to spot raptors, deer, and other wildlife, the campground is ideal for nature enthusiasts.

Hiking

Biking

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The campground has one port-a-john.

Food Storage RequiredEach site includes a food storage locker to protect food from wildlife such as raccoons and coyotes.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

109 reviews

Recommended

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

Hawk Campground is appreciated for its peaceful atmosphere, stunning views, and proximity to the city. However, the uphill hike and lack of water facilities require preparation. Common themes include excellent privacy at site #1 and connected sites #2 and #3.

Review Summaries

Based on 109 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 109 reviews.

Site #1Loved
Site #1 is praised for privacy but criticized for uneven tent pads.
Site #3Mentioned
Site #3 is favored for sweeping views.

What Campers Love

Campers frequently praise the serene environment, breathtaking views of the Marin Headlands and San Francisco, and the well-maintained tent pads and picnic tables. Many reviewers recommend the site...

Based on 109 reviews

Common Concerns

Limited water availability, steep hike, and poorly maintained tent pads (notably at site #1). The port-a-john cleanliness has been inconsistent. Safety concerns at the parking areas due to vehicle...

Based on 109 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring enough water, rain protection, and warm clothing. Start your hike early if not accustomed to steep trails. Avoid leaving valuables in cars at parking lots.

Based on 109 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are noted for foggy conditions leading to condensation at the campsite. Winter and early spring seem popular for their clear conditions and fewer bugs.

Based on 109 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The hike may be steep, but the views are more than worth it." "The site is remote yet accessible." "Bring rain protection even if it's not forecasted."

Based on 109 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features, but the steep hike suggests challenges for those with limited mobility.

Based on 109 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not allowed, except trained service animals.

Based on 109 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a beginner-friendly backpacking experience close to San Francisco with dramatic headlands scenery.

Skip if

You need vehicle access to your campsite or expect spotless facilities and secure trailhead parking.

Nearby Campgrounds

Haypress Campground, Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Sausalito, CA, 94965

Haypress Campground sits within Golden Gate National Recreation Area near Sausalito, offering primitive tent camping with vault toilets and picnic tables. This small, seasonal campground operates during peak months and provides access to hiking and biking trails with wildlife viewing opportunities. The setting delivers fall vistas of the Pacific and radiolarian chert outcrops, with a three-day stay limit and designated quiet hours.