Kirby Cove Campground
4.5595 reviewsThe access gate is located on Conzelman Road next to the Battery Spencer overlook parking area, within the Marin Headlands.
Quick Facts
Price
$40 - $75/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
5 campsites
Season
Open from March 7 to...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
$40 - $75/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
5 campsites
Season
Open from March 7 to...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Kirby Cove Campground
$40.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season fees are $40 for tent-only nonelectric sites and $75 for the group picnic area. Rates may exclude discounts, taxes, and any additional...
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Standard Site Fee$40.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$40.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider415-331-1540goga_marinheadlands_info@nps.gov
What Campers Say
4.55
Top-Rated
Based on 95 reviews
239 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsspaciousbeachsites
Some mention
noise
"Overall, Kirby Cove Campground is highly regarded for its stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline, as well as its secluded, serene atmosphere. While the campground is highly popular, it has some challenges, including the absence of potable water, the steep hike to campsites, and the prevalence of raccoons."
Fees & Passes at Kirby Cove Campground
$40 - $75/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 3 nights per visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled before the day of arrival minus a $10 fee. Late cancellations incur add...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Golden Gate National Recreation Area website.
Best Time to Camp at Kirby Cove Campground
Kirby Cove enjoys the Bay Area's signature mild Mediterranean climate, where temperatures dance between comfortable 50-55°F nights perfect for campfire storytelling and pleasant 60-65°F days ideal for beach exploration. Summer brings the famous San Francisco fog, rolling dramatically through the Golden Gate and creating an ethereal atmosphere that photographers dream about. Seasoned visitors know the secret: pack layers like a local, as the coastal microclimate can shift from misty morning chill to sunny afternoon warmth in the span of a few hours.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: March 7 to November 30.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from March 7 to November 30 (reservable dates begin June 19).
- Current Alerts: No current advisories or closures are reported.
About Kirby Cove Campground
Imagine waking up to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge framed perfectly outside your tent at Kirby Cove Campground, where five intimate tent-only sites offer an exclusive front-row seat to one of the world's most photographed landmarks. This hidden gem, tucked away at the base of the Marin Headlands, rewards adventurous souls who navigate the steep, winding dirt trail with an unforgettable camping experience just minutes from San Francisco. Each site provides a rare combination of wilderness solitude and urban skyline views, while a dedicated group picnic area makes this the perfect basecamp for small gatherings seeking something extraordinary.
Kirby Cove Campground caters to tent-only camping and provides options for both individual and group camping. No RV or car camping is allowed due to the walk-in nature of the sites.
Historical SignificanceStep into layers of California history at Kirby Cove, where echoes of military heritage blend seamlessly with natural beauty. Just a short hike away, the weathered remains of Battery Kirby stand as silent sentinels, having guarded the Golden Gate from 1898 to 1934 during an era when coastal defense shaped the American West. Adventure seekers can explore nearby Point Bonita Lighthouse, perched dramatically on rocky cliffs since 1855, or discover the Cold War secrets of Nike Missile Site SF-88, one of the last intact missile installations in the nation.
Weather and SeasonsKirby Cove enjoys the Bay Area's signature mild Mediterranean climate, where temperatures dance between comfortable 50-55°F nights perfect for campfire storytelling and pleasant 60-65°F days ideal for beach exploration. Summer brings the famous San Francisco fog, rolling dramatically through the Golden Gate and creating an ethereal atmosphere that photographers dream about. Seasoned visitors know the secret: pack layers like a local, as the coastal microclimate can shift from misty morning chill to sunny afternoon warmth in the span of a few hours.
ElevationPerched at the dramatic base of the Marin Headlands, Kirby Cove offers a unique low-elevation camping experience where mountain meets sea. While the campground itself nestles close to sea level, the surrounding headlands tower above, creating a natural amphitheater that amplifies the sound of crashing waves and provides shelter from coastal winds. This strategic position offers the best of both worlds: easy beach access for sunset strolls and proximity to highland trails for those seeking panoramic vistas.
Natural Features and SceneryKirby Cove is nature's masterpiece, where windswept groves of Monterey cypress create natural cathedral ceilings above your campsite, their gnarled branches telling stories of decades facing Pacific storms. The aromatic eucalyptus trees mingle with native coastal sage, filling the air with a distinctly Californian perfume, while sturdy pines provide year-round shade. Below, a rugged beach of coarse sand invites barefoot exploration during low tide, revealing tide pools teeming with life. From every angle, the campground frames spectacular views: the Golden Gate Bridge to the east, the endless Pacific to the west, and San Francisco's glittering skyline beckoning across the bay.
Geological RegionKirby Cove showcases the dramatic geology of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, where ancient seafloor sediments thrust skyward create the craggy cliffs and hidden coves that define Northern California's coastline. This remarkable landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where tectonic forces sculpted headlands that now shelter intimate beaches and secret valleys. The diverse terrain supports a tapestry of vegetation, from wind-sculpted Monterey cypress clinging to cliffsides to towering Blue Gum eucalyptus in protected hollows, all thriving in the nutrient-rich soils created by centuries of fog drip and ocean spray.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityTwo campsites (Sites 2 and 5) are accessible for individuals with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible parking is available. Visitors with disabilities can contact the Marin Headlands Rangers for access to the secondary gate with a shorter route to campsites.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as large, with some featuring multiple tent platforms and picnic tables. Site 1, for instance, offers three tent platforms and three picnic tables.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are described as secluded, with Site 1 offering the most privacy due to its distance from other sites. Other sites, such as 2, 3, and 5, are relatively close but still provide a sense of space.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #1 is ideal for privacy and vistas but is less suitable for families with young children due to cliffside risks. Sites #2 and #3 offer good views and easier access. Site #4 is tucked away and private, while Site #5 is closest to the beach.
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 3 nights per visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Overnight sites accommodate up to 10 people, and group picnic sites allow for up to 35 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are spread across the cove with tent pads, food lockers, and picnic tables. Sites vary in privacy, accessibility, and views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 7 to November 30 (reservable dates begin June 19).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are not available; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled before the day of arrival minus a $10 fee. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Kirby Cove Campground offers a range of outdoor activities that take advantage of its scenic and historic location. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birding, and picnicking. The beach provides opportunities for relaxation and exploration, while the historic Battery Kirby adds a cultural and educational element to the camping experience. Nearby attractions include the Point Bonita Lighthouse and Mount Tamalpais State Park.
Hiking
Hiking trails include a steep, mile-long trail from the parking area to the cove, which passes through eucalyptus groves and offers views of the surrounding area. Nearby, the Marin Headlands offer additional trails for exploration.Fishing
Fishing is available at the beach, and visitors reported it as an enjoyable activity.Biking
Nearby biking opportunities include scenic routes into San Francisco. However, bikes are not allowed on campground premises.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer, seals, hawks, and a variety of birds can be seen around the campground. Visitors have also reported observing coyotes and foxes.Beach activities
The beach at Kirby Cove offers coarse sand and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Activities include picnicking, tide pooling, and exploring the shoreline.Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby attractions include Battery Kirby, a historic military site, and the Point Bonita Lighthouse. Guided ranger programs are available in the Marin Headlands, including birding walks and historical tours.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but the campground is open seasonally from March to November.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must adhere to local fire regulations. Firewood must be purchased locally.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsRaccoons are prevalent and adept at opening trash bins and lockers. Poison oak is common on trails, and ticks were reported by visitors during certain months.
Active alertsNo current advisories or closures are reported.
Weather at Kirby Cove Campground
50
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 89%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 13 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are in Sausalito, including local police. Park Dispatch can be reached at (415) 561-5656 in case of emergencies.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 7 to November 30.
Trash and recyclingDumpsters for trash and recycling are located at the parking area. Campers are encouraged to use these facilities and adhere to Leave No Trace principles to avoid attracting wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresKirby Cove is adjacent to a coarse-sand beach with direct access to the Pacific Ocean.
Common complaintsReviews frequently mention raccoons, lack of functional carts for gear transport, noise from foghorns, and challenges with accessibility due to steep trails.
Campground Map
The access gate is located on Conzelman Road next to the Battery Spencer overlook parking area, within the Marin Headlands.
Driving directionsFrom San Francisco (travelling north): Cross the Golden Gate Bridge and take exit 442 onto Alexander Avenue. This will be the exit after the Vista Point. Continue straight for a few hundred feet, and then turn left onto Bunker Road. Travel through the Baker-Barry Tunnel and continue straight until you can turn left onto McCullough Road, after the speed bumps. Continue uphill until you hit the traffic circle, and take the 2nd exit onto Conzelman Road. Travel downhill on the one-way road until you reach Battery Spencer, and it will be sharp right turn toward the Kirby Cove service gates. After entering the gate codes provided upon reservation, it is then a mile drive down the dirt trail to the Kirby Cove Parking lot. From Marin (travelling south): From US-101 South, take the last exit before the Golden Gate Bridge onto Alexander Avenue. Turn right at the stop sign and continue straight for about a quarter mile, until you can turn left onto Bunker Road. Travel through the Baker-Barry Tunnel and continue straight until you can turn left onto McCullough Road, after the speed bumps. Continue uphill until you hit the traffic circle, and take the 2nd exit onto Conzelman Road. Travel downhill until you reach Battery Spencer, and it will be sharp right turn toward the Kirby Cove service gate. It is then a mile drive down the dirt trail to the Kirby Cove Parking lot.
The campground is accessible via a steep dirt trail with no guardrails and is approximately one mile long. Many reviewers have noted it is challenging to find at night and requires careful navigation.Nearby places
Sausalito (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Downtown San Francisco (approximately 15 miles, around 30 minutes)
Muir Woods National Monument (20-minute drive)
Mount Tamalpais State Park (30-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Sausalito or San Francisco, approximately 5-15 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
95 reviews
Kirby Cove Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Kirby Cove Campground is highly regarded for its stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline, as well as its secluded, serene atmosphere. While the campground is highly popular, it has some challenges, including the absence of potable water, the steep hike to campsites, and the prevalence of raccoons.
Review Summaries
Based on 95 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors rave about the scenic views, especially from Site 1, and the proximity to the beach. The campground's seclusion and spacious campsites are also commonly praised. Quotes include: 'The view at...
Based on 95 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include the lack of water on-site, the steep trail from the parking area, and disturbances from foghorns. One user noted, 'No water available at this campground,' and another said, 'The...
Based on 95 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water, earplugs for the foghorns, and lightweight camping gear. Plan your visit for weekdays to avoid crowds and bring layers to prepare for variable weather.
Based on 95 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews highlight that summer months can be foggy, with loud foghorns, while fall provides clearer skies and quieter nights. The campground is described as beautiful year-round but is most enjoyable...
Based on 95 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'The most beautiful campsite in the Bay Area.' 'Bring lots of water. It would be nice if they provided a water tank for their campers.' 'The Golden Gate Bridge’s singing in the wind sounded like a...
Based on 95 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1 is often noted as the best campsite for its privacy and views, but it is far from the parking lot. Site 4 is described as spacious and protected from the wind. Site 5 is closest to the beach...
Based on 95 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Some users expressed disappointment with the steep trail, which makes accessibility challenging despite designated accessible sites. One reviewer stated, 'I tried to find how far this site is from...
Based on 95 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at Kirby Cove Campground, which limits options for pet owners.
Based on 95 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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