Alice Eastwood Group Campground sits at 784 feet elevation in Mount Tamalpais State Park, just off Panoramic Highway near Mill Valley. The campground has two group sites (GAEA and GAEB) that accommodate 25 to 50 people each, with nightly fees ranging from $110 to $225. Each site includes picnic tables, grills, bear lockers, and flush toilets. This is a primitive group campground, so plan to bring all cooking supplies and expect no showers.
Alice Eastwood Group Campground is designed specifically for group primitive camping, accommodating organized groups of campers.
Historical Significance
The Coast Miwok people lived in this region for centuries before the area became parkland. In the early 20th century, a scenic railroad climbed to the summit of Mount Tamalpais, bringing Victorian-era tourists to the mountain locals called 'the sleeping maiden.'Weather and SeasonsSpring delivers the best conditions. Daytime highs run from the mid-50s to mid-70s°F, hills green up after winter rains, and wildflowers peak. Trails stay firm and accessible, and redwood canyons remain cool even as ridges warm. This is prime time for group gatherings before summer weekend crowds arrive. Group sites see better availability in spring than in high summer. Winter brings moderate temperatures in the 50s to 60s but also rolling fog and potential trail closures from storms.
ElevationPerched at 784 feet above sea level, the campground strikes the perfect balance between accessibility and elevation. This moderate height gifts visitors with sweeping scenic vistas while keeping trails manageable for hikers of all abilities. The elevation provides just enough lift to escape the coastal fog on many days, offering clear views across the bay while maintaining comfortable conditions for camping and exploration.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a geological crossroads near the San Andreas Fault, where tectonic forces have created striking contrasts. Sun-baked chaparral ridges give way to cool canyons where redwoods thrive in fog-fed moisture. Oak woodlands fill the middle elevations. The terrain shifts dramatically with elevation, and on clear days views extend across San Francisco Bay. The interplay of dry ridges and shaded, fern-lined creek beds reveals California's diverse plant communities within a compact area.
Geological RegionSet within the dynamic landscape of Marin County, the campground occupies a fascinating geological crossroads near the infamous San Andreas Fault. This tectonic activity has sculpted a terrain of remarkable diversity—sun-baked chaparral ridges stand in stark contrast to the cool, fern-lined canyons where towering redwoods thrive in the fog-fed moisture. The interplay of oak woodlands and dramatic elevation changes creates a living classroom of California's geological story, where every trail reveals new wonders shaped by millions of years of earth's forces.
Scenic ViewsBreathtaking views of the Farallon Islands, San Francisco Bay, Marin County hills, and Mount Diablo can be observed from nearby trails.
Lodging & AccommodationsAlice Eastwood Group Campground does not offer hotel-style lodgings. It is strictly a primitive camping setup with group tent sites.
Programs & ActivitiesEducational programs, such as astronomy nights and guided hikes, are organized in the park. These programs foster a deeper understanding of the park's natural and cultural history.