If you're already having withdrawals from your summer camping trip, fear not, fall is a great time to pitch a tent in the Bay Area.
These nearby campsites are perfect to get your wilderness fix and take advantage of the incredible weather. Check out the list and start making plans!
Camp at Rob Hill Campground
Want to spend a night in the only campsite right in San Francisco? Rob Hill Campground is a hidden treasure, located at the Presidio's highest point above Baker Beach amid a beautiful eucalyptus grove. Learn more.
Insider Tip: Head into the Inner Richmond (just south of the Presidio) after your camping trip and kill two birds with one stone for breakfast: Put your name in at Eats, then walk down the street for a Mexican mocha at Cumaica.
Camping on Mount Tam
Need an escape from SF but can't seem to find an available campground? Then head to Pantoll Campground in Mount Tamalpais State Park. If you get there early on Friday (or even better Thursday afternoon), you should be able to lock down one of these first-come, first-serve campgrounds. Learn more.
Insider Tip: To see if the campground is filling up the day of, call ahead at (415) 388-2070.
Redwoods Camping at Samuel P. Taylor State Park
These West Marin campsites are often overlooked by fall campers. It does get busy during the summer, but take the rest of the year to explore the gorgeous state park. The main campground boasts more than 50 campsites with restrooms, hot showers, and piped drinking water. Learn more.
Insider Tip: If you need to restock your supplies, head up to Pt. Reyes station (about a 15 minutes drive) which has Palace Markets and Cowgirl Creamery.
Camp at Butano State Park
Butano State Park definitely flies under the radar, but it's a local favorite for those who love quick escapes, small crowds, fun hikes, and beautiful redwoods. The park features miles of hiking trails, 21 drive-in campsites and 18 walk-in campsites. Learn more.
Insider Tip: You're only 15 minutes from the coast so bring your beach chillin' supplies.
Camp on Angel Island
Thousands of years ago, this island was a fishing and hunting ground for the Miwok Native Americans. It has also been an outpost for the U.S. Army and a cattle ranch. Now, it's one of the closest places to escape from the hustle of San Francisco and set up camp. You will have to earn this epic campsite with a short (1 - 1.25 miles) hike in, but it's more than worth it. Learn more.
Insider Tip: To get to and from Angel Island, you can either take the Blue and Gold Fleet ferry from SF or Oakland or the Angel Island Ferry.
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This post was originally published in October 2015.
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