There’s a side of me that doesn’t even want to write this story, as it’s already difficult enough for adventure-seekers to book camp sites in the state of California. It can indeed be an incredibly frustrating feat, and though there are state initiatives like Assembly Bill No. 618 that aim to curtail over-booking or repeated cancellations, spots are still in such high demand that snagging a site still requires planning far, far in advance. There are some sites, though, that are worth setting an alert for. And because many state and National Parks sites are released either three or six months in advance at 8 a.m., now is the time to start doing so for the fall—my personal favorite camping season. These are some of the secluded camping spots I have on my bucket list.
Thomas J. Story
Kirby Cove
For scenery, serenity, and history, Kirby Cove Campground is one of the Bay Area’s coolest hidden gems. Tucked in the stunning Marin Headlands just north of the Golden Gate Bridge, the area offers unbeatable views of San Francisco and the Pacific. There are only five campsites that can be booked nightly, however there are also day use permits for picnicking. This remote spot features five walk-in campsites near a historic 1898 coastal battery and a quiet beach where herons and other seabirds meander along the sand. Reservations are required and open six months in advance on Recreation.gov. Warning: they fill up quickly, and are currently booking out for November.
Thomas J. Story
Angel Island
Angel Island Campground is one of the Bay Area’s best-kept secrets—an island escape just a short ferry ride from San Francisco or Tiburon. It’s a great gateway experience for newbie backpackers, too. (Just beware of the resident raccoons.) With only 16 campsites spread across scenic ridges and coves, it offers sweeping views of the city skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and Marin Headlands. Campers enjoy peaceful nights after day visitors depart, making it feel like a private island retreat. Each site includes a picnic table, food locker, and charcoal grill (no wood fires allowed). Reservations open six months in advance at 8 a.m. PST via ReserveCalifornia, and they fill fast—so plan ahead for this unforgettable coastal camping experience.
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Steep Ravine
This rare coastal retreat located in Mount Tamalpais State Park is the absolute embodiment of rustic California charm. Perched on rocky cliffs above the Pacific, you’ll find historic, electricity-free cabins that provide stunning ocean views and a true off-grid experience. Each cabin includes a wood stove and picnic table, but you’ll need to bring your own bedding and cooking gear. Due to high demand, reservations are managed through a lottery system: apply up to eight months in advance via ReserveCalifornia, with drawings held seven months ahead. Winners have 30 days to confirm and pay for their reservation; unclaimed spots become available six months prior to the stay date. Good luck! (But don’t snag mine, please.)
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Samuel P. Taylor State Park
If you want a riverfront destination and swimming hole during the summer months, this Lagunitas park is the ideal setting. Part of California State Parks, Samuel P. Taylor, one of California’s first recreational camping sites, is nestled under towering redwoods and features various easy-to-moderate hikes. Keep an eye out for gray foxes and owls and coho salmon in the streams—a success story in conservation of this endangered Northern California fish species. The South Creek trail is wheelchair-accessible, while heading toward the Barnabe Peak affords more challenging terrain and rare views of Marin County. Bonus: it’s incredibly close to Inverness and Point Reyes Station, meaning you’re in peak oyster country. And we’re of the mindset that there’s nothing better than grilled oysters over a campfire.
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Henry Cowell State Park
There’s nothing more quintessentially Northern Californian then setting up camp amongst the towering old growth redwoods, and this Santa Cruz state park is the peak place to do it. The park’s 107 campsites accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Amenities include flush toilets and coin-operated showers. Reservations are highly recommended, especially from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and can be made up to six months in advance at 8 a.m. PST via ReserveCalifornia. It’s easy to spend your entire time roaming amongst the redwoods on trails like Fall Creek and Redwood Cove, another worthy stops for history buffs and locomotive fans is the Roaring Camp Railroad. The steam train has been operating since the late 1800s, when it was originally used for logging in the area, and now takes travelers on journeys to Bear Mountain.