Steep Ravine Campground

Angel Island SP

Perched on the slopes of Angel Island, Sunrise Campground beckons adventurous souls seeking an extraordinary escape just miles from urban civilization. This exclusive hike-in sanctuary, accessible only by ferry or private boat, rewards those who make the journey with breathtaking panoramic views stretching from the glittering towers of downtown San Francisco to the rolling hills of the East Bay. Here, where morning light first touches the bay, campers discover a tranquil retreat that feels worlds away from city life, yet remains tantalizingly close to one of America's most iconic metropolitan areas.

801 Panoramic Highway, Mill Valley, CA 94941

Nestled along the scenic Panoramic Highway near the historic Mountain Home Inn, Alice Eastwood Group Campground serves as an ideal basecamp for adventures with your favorite people. Two spacious group sites—GAEA and GAEB—welcome organized gatherings of 25 to 50 campers, each thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, grills, and generous tent spaces that encourage both community connection and comfortable camping. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout expedition, or outdoor education retreat, these sites offer the perfect blend of wilderness immersion and practical amenities.

801 Panoramic Highway, Mill Valley, CA 94941

Tucked away in the enchanting forests of Mount Tamalpais State Park, Pantoll Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience just north of San Francisco. This intimate retreat features 16 first-come, first-served walk-in sites, each one a secluded haven approximately 100 yards from the parking area. Dense canopies of ancient trees create natural cathedral ceilings above your campsite, where you'll find everything needed for a memorable stay: sturdy picnic tables for evening meals, crackling fire pits for storytelling sessions, convenient grills for outdoor cooking, plus modern flush toilets and fresh potable water to keep you comfortable under the stars.

8889 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, Lagunitas, CA 94938

Escape into a cathedral of ancient redwoods at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, where over 60 campsites nestle beneath towering giants that have stood sentinel for centuries. Whether you choose a traditional campsite with modern comforts like hot showers and restrooms, a cozy cabin retreat, or arrive on two wheels for the dedicated hike/bike sites, you'll find yourself immersed in one of California's most enchanting forest sanctuaries. Group sites welcome larger gatherings, making this the perfect basecamp for family reunions and outdoor adventures.

500 Hunters Point Expressway, San Francisco, CA 94124

Perched on the edge of San Francisco Bay, Sunrise Point Campground beckons group adventurers with six spacious campsites designed for gatherings of 20 to 40 people. Wake up to the gentle lapping of bay waters just steps from your tent, where each thoughtfully appointed site comes complete with sturdy picnic tables for communal meals, sizzling BBQ grills for evening cookouts, secure food storage lockers to keep wildlife at bay, and fresh potable water. This hidden gem within Candlestick Point State Recreation Area puts you at the intersection of urban convenience and natural serenity, offering direct shoreline access that transforms every sunrise and sunset into a spectacular show.

730 N. San Pedro Road, San Rafael, CA 94901

Escape the ordinary at Back Ranch Meadows Campground, where adventure begins with a scenic walk from your car. This unique walk-in campground features 33 thoughtfully placed sites, including two dedicated hike-and-bike spots perfect for cycling enthusiasts. Your journey starts at the parking area, where you'll transport your gear along peaceful paths ranging from 50 to 300 yards—a small trek that rewards you with enhanced privacy and a deeper connection to nature. Each tent-only site comes equipped with essential comforts: a fire pit for evening gatherings, a sturdy picnic table for outdoor dining, and access to modern restrooms and refreshing showers. It's camping that strikes the perfect balance between rustic charm and practical amenities.

Benicia State Recreation Area, 1 State Park Road, Benicia, CA 94510

Where the wind whispers through rare tidal marshes and the San Francisco Bay meets river waters, Benicia State Recreation Campground welcomes RV adventurers to a hidden ecological treasure. This intimate campground, nestled at the park's entrance, serves as your gateway to one of California's most remarkable wetland ecosystems. From your motorhome or trailer, you'll have front-row access to world-class bird watching, serene fishing spots, and trails that wind through landscapes where endangered species find sanctuary among the rustling marsh grasses.

8889 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Lagunitas, CA 94938

Nestled in the heart of Marin County's countryside, Devil Gulch Group Campground offers an intimate escape for groups seeking connection with nature and each other. Choose from two tent-only sites perfect for gatherings of up to 10 friends and family, or opt for the equestrian site where up to 20 riders can camp alongside their horses (up to 12). Each thoughtfully designed site comes equipped with everything you need for memorable evenings under the stars: crackling fire rings for storytelling sessions, barbecue grills for feast preparations, and sturdy picnic tables that serve as the heart of your outdoor living space.

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Perched high above the shimmering waters of San Francisco Bay, Ridge Campground offers an extraordinary island escape accessible only by ferry or private boat. This environmental campground invites adventurers to discover breathtaking panoramic vistas, winding trails that tell centuries of stories, and historical landmarks that whisper of California's complex past. Here, where city skylines meet wilderness, campers find themselves in a rare sanctuary just miles from urban life.

The access gate is located on Conzelman Road next to the Battery Spencer overlook parking area, within the Marin Headlands.

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.

1475 Central Magazine Rd, San Francisco, CA 94129

Discover a remarkable urban oasis at Rob Hill Group Campground, where the wilderness meets the city in San Francisco's historic Presidio. This extraordinary campground transforms group adventures into unforgettable experiences, whether you're organizing a scout expedition, planning a school outdoor education program, or gathering friends and family for a unique camping retreat. Miles of winding trails beckon from your tent flap, leading to breathtaking overlooks and hidden natural treasures that reveal why this is one of California's most distinctive camping destinations.

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

Tucked away in the rolling coastal scrub of Tennessee Valley, Haypress Campground offers an intimate escape into the wild heart of Marin Headlands. This secluded hike-in sanctuary features five individual campsites, each welcoming up to four adventurers, plus one spacious group site perfect for gatherings of up to 25 people. Your wilderness experience comes complete with tent pads nestled into the landscape, secure food lockers to protect your provisions from curious wildlife, and vault toilets discretely placed for convenience. The group site features picnic tables for communal meals under the stars. As a true backcountry experience, you'll need to carry in your own water and pack out all trash—a small price for the solitude and natural beauty that awaits. Leave your devices behind or embrace the digital detox, as cell service rarely reaches this peaceful hollow.

1 Bear Valley Road, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956

Escape to the wild edge of California at Point Reyes National Seashore, where four secluded backcountry campgrounds await those seeking adventure on foot or by bike, plus a hidden boat-in gem nestled along the pristine waters of Tomales Bay. Here, you'll fall asleep to the rhythm of crashing waves and wake to the calls of seabirds, with only the essentials between you and nature—secure food lockers to protect your provisions from curious wildlife, clean vault toilets, and fresh drinking water at each site.

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

Perched high above Tennessee Valley in the rugged Marin Headlands, Hawk Campground rewards adventurous backpackers with an unforgettable wilderness experience. This primitive, hike-in sanctuary challenges visitors with steep trails that wind through coastal mountains before revealing a spectacular mountaintop refuge. From your tent, watch morning fog roll across black sand beaches far below while golden sunsets paint the entire Bay Area in breathtaking panoramic views. The journey here demands experience and determination, but those who make the climb discover one of California's most dramatic backcountry campsites.

Bicentennial Campground, Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation Area

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.

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, Fort Mason Center, Building E, 2nd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94123, USA

Drop anchor in one of San Francisco's most spectacular hidden gems, where your sailboat becomes your floating basecamp in the heart of the city. Aquatic Park Cove welcomes sailors to a protected anchorage where the urban meets the maritime, offering front-row seats to some of America's most iconic landmarks. Wake to the sight of Alcatraz Island catching the morning light, spend your days exploring the Maritime Museum's treasures, and watch the Golden Gate Bridge transform into a glowing sculpture at sunset. Just steps from your anchorage, the historic ships of Hyde Street Pier tell tales of San Francisco's seafaring past, while the city's vibrant neighborhoods beckon with endless adventures.

3000 Atlas Road, Richmond, California, 94806, United States

Where rolling meadows meet the sparkling waters of San Pablo Bay, Point Pinole Regional Shoreline beckons adventurers to explore its 2,315 acres of coastal wilderness. This hidden gem near Richmond, California, invites you to wander through fragrant eucalyptus groves, traverse windswept bluffs, and follow winding trails that culminate at an impressive 1,250-foot fishing pier stretching into the bay. The primitive campground, tucked near the pier, offers an authentic back-to-nature experience where the rhythmic sounds of the bay lull you to sleep under star-filled skies.

2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland , California, 94609, United States

Perched high in the Berkeley Hills, Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve offers adventurous campers a secluded wilderness experience just minutes from urban life. Your journey begins with a rewarding 0.2-mile uphill trek that leads to a pristine backpack camping site, where two thoughtfully placed tent pads await beneath open skies. Here, you'll find yourself dining at an ADA-accessible picnic table while gazing across a breathtaking 180-degree panorama that stretches from the majestic Mount Diablo to Volmer Peak and the rolling hills of Tilden Park. With basic amenities including a serving table and pit toilet, this primitive site strikes the perfect balance between comfort and authentic outdoor immersion.

7867 Redwood Road, Oakland, California, 94619, United States

Just minutes from downtown Oakland lies a secret sanctuary where towering 150-foot coast redwoods create cathedral-like groves that transport visitors to another world. Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park beckons adventurers with nearly 40 miles of winding trails perfect for hiking, jogging, and horseback riding through misty forests. Lucky visitors might spot golden eagles soaring overhead or catch a glimpse of the elusive Alameda striped racer slithering through the underbrush, making each journey through these ancient woods a potential wildlife encounter.

2501 Grizzly Peak Blvd, Orinda , California, 94563, United States

Spanning 2,079 acres of rolling Berkeley Hills, Tilden Regional Park stands as a beloved outdoor sanctuary in the East Bay. Since its founding as one of the region's pioneer parks, this expansive natural playground has delighted generations with its diverse offerings—from winding hiking trails that reveal breathtaking vistas to the nostalgic charm of the historic Tilden Merry-Go-Round. Adventure-seekers and families alike discover their perfect escape here, whether pitching tents at the group camping facilities or exploring the park's countless recreational treasures.

1475 Central Magazine Rd, San Francisco, CA 94129

8889 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Lagunitas, CA 94938

The access gate is located on Conzelman Road next to the Battery Spencer overlook parking area, within the Marin Headlands.

Angel Island SP

1 Bear Valley Road, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956

801 Panoramic Highway, Mill Valley, CA 94941

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

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

Bicentennial Campground, Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation Area

8889 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, Lagunitas, CA 94938

3000 Atlas Road, Richmond, California, 94806, United States

2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland , California, 94609, United States

7867 Redwood Road, Oakland, California, 94619, United States

801 Panoramic Highway, Mill Valley, CA 94941

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730 N. San Pedro Road, San Rafael, CA 94901

500 Hunters Point Expressway, San Francisco, CA 94124

2501 Grizzly Peak Blvd, Orinda , California, 94563, United States

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, Fort Mason Center, Building E, 2nd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94123, USA

Bishop Creek, South Lake Road, near Four Jeffrey Campground, CA

Escape to Mountain Glen Campground, where just five secluded sites await beneath a canopy of quaking aspens and graceful willows. This hidden gem along the melodic waters of Bishop Creek offers the perfect basecamp for tomorrow's alpine adventure or a tranquil week-long retreat from the demands of modern life. Here, intimacy meets wilderness, creating an atmosphere where every camper becomes part of the mountain's quiet rhythm.

1 Visitor Center Dr Lee Vining, CA 93541

Tucked into a scenic bend along the melodious Lee Vining Creek, Big Bend Campground invites adventurers to claim one of its 17 intimate campsites within the majestic Inyo National Forest. This hidden gem serves as the perfect basecamp for those drawn to both Yosemite's stunning Tuolumne Meadows entrance and the otherworldly landscapes of Mono Basin Scenic Area. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including vault toilets, fresh potable water, and bear-proof food storage lockers to ensure both comfort and wildlife safety during your stay.

INYO, CA, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Sierra, Big Pine Canyon offers adventurers a gateway to some of California's most dramatic alpine wilderness. This stunning canyon serves as your basecamp for exploring ancient glaciers, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and towering granite peaks that pierce the sky at over 14,000 feet. Whether you're seeking challenging mountaineering routes or peaceful streamside camping, Big Pine Canyon delivers an authentic High Sierra experience that will leave you breathless—both from the altitude and the sheer beauty surrounding you.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Gather your favorite people at Camp 4 Group Campsite, where up to 35 adventurers can create lasting memories together in the heart of nature. This thoughtfully developed campground welcomes groups with everything needed for the perfect outdoor gathering – spacious picnic tables for shared meals under towering trees, crackling fire pits for evening storytelling, convenient vault toilets, and regular garbage collection that lets you focus on what matters most: quality time with friends and family.

Six Rivers National Forest

Tucked away in the vast wilderness of Six Rivers National Forest, Bailey Canyon Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience for those seeking solitude and simplicity. This hidden gem provides all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including vault toilets and fresh drinking water, while each thoughtfully arranged campsite comes complete with a sturdy table for meals under the stars and a campfire ring where stories and s'mores come to life after dark.

13652 Highway 79 Julian, CA 92036

Saddle up for an unforgettable equestrian adventure at Los Vaqueros Group Horse Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern camping comfort. This specialized horse-friendly retreat beckons riders and their four-legged companions with direct access to the legendary California Riding and Hiking Trail. Well-appointed horse corrals ensure your equine partners rest as comfortably as you do, making this the perfect basecamp for exploring miles of scenic trails that wind through California's stunning backcountry.

Eldorado National Forest

Tucked away in the heart of Eldorado National Forest, Northwind Campground beckons those seeking solitude amid towering pines and whispering aspens. This hidden gem rewards visitors who venture off the beaten path with pristine natural beauty and the kind of peaceful atmosphere that's increasingly rare in today's busy world. The smooth paved roads leading to this intimate campground make it an accessible retreat where the only sounds you'll hear are birdsong and wind through the trees.

Sequoia National Forest

Perched at an impressive 7,800 feet elevation, this mountain retreat features 73 thoughtfully designed campsites nestled among towering pines and crisp mountain air. The campground welcomes RVs up to 24 feet, with each site featuring a paved parking spur for easy setup and bear-proof storage boxes for peace of mind. Adventure seekers will love the direct access to thrilling OHV trails right from camp, while fresh drinking water is available throughout the season. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping off-road adventures or simply yearning to wake up above the clouds, this high-elevation haven offers the perfect basecamp for your mountain escape.

Sequoia National Forest

Rail Creek Rd, Klamath National Forest, California

Escape to the pristine wilderness of Kangaroo Lake Campground, where 18 thoughtfully placed sites await at 6,100 feet among towering conifers and fragrant manzanita. Choose from 13 convenient drive-in sites or venture to one of 5 secluded walk-in tent sites for a more intimate connection with nature. The crown jewel is the crystal-clear, 25-acre lake that plunges to depths of 110 feet—a tranquil haven for paddlers and anglers pursuing rainbow trout in its cool waters. A gentle, quarter-mile paved trail winds through the forest to the lake's edge, making this mountain paradise accessible to all. As you settle into this bear country sanctuary, proper food storage becomes part of the authentic wilderness experience under star-filled skies.