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Mount Tamalpais State Park California (CA) RV Rentals

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Introduction

Mount Tamalpais State Park offers a unique and unforgettable RV camping experience. Located in Marin County, California, the park boasts a rich history and cultural significance. The park is named after the Coast Miwok word for “west hill,” and it was once a sacred site for Native American tribes. The unique geological features of the park, including its rolling hills and coastal redwood forests, were created by millions of years of tectonic activity and erosion.

The weather at Mount Tamalpais State Park is mild and Mediterranean, with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers. RV renters should be prepared for foggy mornings and evenings, as well as occasional rain showers. It’s important to note that the park is susceptible to wildfires, so visitors should always check for current fire restrictions before heading out.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in Mount Tamalpais State Park. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Mount Tamalpais State Park.

Camping Accommodations

37

'

Max RV length

37

'

Max trailer Length

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Generator use

Food storage

Sewer hookup

Dogs & cats

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Transportation

  • Driving/Transportation

Visitors to Mount Tamalpais State Park have several transportation options to choose from. The most convenient way to access the park is by private vehicle. There are several entrances to the park including the Panoramic Highway entrance the Pantoll Ranger Station entrance and the Bootjack Ranger Station entrance. Visitors should be aware that there are restrictions on rig sizes with a maximum length of 35 feet for RVs and trailers. Additionally some roads within the park have steep grades and sharp turns so visitors should check their vehicle’s capabilities before heading out.

  • Parking area

RV parking is limited within the park with no designated overnight areas outside of campsites. The Frank Valley and Pantoll Campgrounds offer RV campsites with hookups and facilities. However it’s recommended to explore the park using alternative transportation methods such as biking or hiking for a more immersive experience.

  • Public Transportation

Mount Tamalpais State Park provides several transportation options for visitors to explore its beauty conveniently. The West Marin Stagecoach and Muir Woods Shuttle offer services to various points of interest within the park. Additionally a network of hiking trails and walking paths connect key attractions allowing for an eco-friendly and active exploration of the park.

Top Campsites in Mount Tamalpais State Park

  • Reservations camping

1. Steep Ravine Environmental Campground

Steep Ravine Environmental Campground nestled along the coastal side of Mount Tamalpais State Park is the most popular campsite in the area. With only 7 campsites it is an intimate and serene setting perfect for a peaceful getaway. The campsites are located in a forested area with easy access to the ocean and offer stunning views of the Pacific. Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring. Activities include hiking fishing and beachcombing. Pets are allowed but RVs and trailers are not permitted. The campground is open year-round.

2. Bootjack Campground

Bootjack Campground located on the east side of Mount Tamalpais State Park is a popular destination for campers seeking a more traditional camping experience. With 15 campsites it is a larger campground that can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 27 feet in length. Each site has a picnic table a fire ring and access to potable water and restrooms. Activities include hiking biking and wildlife viewing. Pets are allowed. The campground is open from April to November.

3. Pantoll Campground

Pantoll Campground located on the western slope of Mount Tamalpais State Park is a popular destination for campers seeking easy access to hiking trails. With 16 campsites it is a smaller campground that can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 31 feet in length. Each site has a picnic table a fire ring and access to potable water and restrooms. Activities include hiking biking and birdwatching. Pets are allowed. The campground is open year-round.

4. Alice Eastwood Group Camp

Alice Eastwood Group Camp located on the eastern slope of Mount Tamalpais State Park is a popular destination for large groups seeking a more private camping experience. With only 3 campsites it is an intimate setting that can accommodate up to 50 people. Each site has a picnic table a fire ring and access to potable water and restrooms. Activities include hiking biking and wildlife viewing. Pets are allowed. The campground is open from April to November.

  • First-come first-served

1. Frank Valley Campground

Frank Valley Campground located just outside of Mount Tamalpais State Park is a first-come-first-served campground that offers 14 campsites. Each site has a picnic table a fire ring and access to potable water and restrooms. Activities include hiking biking and birdwatching. Pets are allowed but RVs and trailers are not permitted. The campground is open year-round.

2. Bolinas Ridge Campground

Bolinas Ridge Campground located just outside of Mount Tamalpais State Park is a first-come-first-served campground that offers 7 campsites. Each site has a picnic table a fire ring and access to potable water and restrooms. Activities include hiking biking and wildlife viewing. Pets are allowed but RVs and trailers are not permitted. The campground is open year-round.

3. Wildcat Camp

Wildcat Camp located inside Mount Tamalpais State Park is a first-come-first-served campground that offers 5 campsites. Each site has a picnic table a fire ring and access to potable water and restrooms. Activities include hiking biking and birdwatching. Pets are allowed but RVs and trailers are not permitted. The campground is open year-round.

  • Alternate camping

1. Olema Campground

Olema Campground located just outside of Mount Tamalpais State Park is a private campground that offers 36 campsites. Each site has a picnic table a fire ring and access to potable water and restrooms. Activities include hiking biking and wildlife viewing. Pets are allowed and RVs and trailers up to 35 feet in length are permitted. The campground is open year-round.

2. Samuel P. Taylor State Park

Samuel P. Taylor State Park located just a few miles from Mount Tamalpais State Park offers backcountry camping for those seeking a more rugged camping experience. There are 4 campgrounds each with multiple campsites. Activities include hiking biking and fishing. Pets are allowed but RVs and trailers are not permitted. The campgrounds are open year-round.

3. Marin RV Park and Campground

Marin RV Park and Campground located just a few miles from Mount Tamalpais State Park is a private campground that offers 186 campsites including RV sites with full hookups. Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring. Activities include hiking biking and swimming. Pets are allowed. The campground is open year-round.

  • General activities

Hiking

Mount Tamalpais State Park offers numerous hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience. The most popular trail is the Steep Ravine Trail which takes hikers through a lush forest of redwoods ferns and moss-covered rocks. The trail leads to a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and the Bay Area.

Biking

The park is also a popular destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. The Mount Tamalpais Loop is a challenging 17-mile ride that offers stunning views of the park’s scenic vistas. The ride starts at the base of the mountain and winds its way up to the East Peak summit.

Fishing

The park’s lakes and streams are teeming with fish making it a popular destination for anglers. Lake Lagunitas is a popular spot for catch-and-release fishing with rainbow trout being the most common catch.

Cycling

The park’s winding roads and scenic vistas make it a popular destination for road cyclists. The Seven Sisters route is a challenging 40-mile ride that takes cyclists through the park’s rolling hills and coastal views.

Camping

The park offers numerous campsites for RV campers. The Pantoll Campground is the most popular with 16 campsites that can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet in length. The campground offers picnic tables fire rings and restroom facilities.

  • Alternative activities

Looking for alternative activities to do in Mount Tamalpais State Park? Here are some popular options

Sightseeing

The park offers numerous scenic vistas and landmarks that are perfect for sightseeing. The East Peak summit offers panoramic views of the Bay Area and the Pacific Ocean. The Gravity Car Barn is a historic landmark that showcases the park’s former railway system.

Nature Watching

The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife including deer coyotes and birds. The Bolinas Lagoon is a popular spot for birdwatching with over 100 species of birds found in the area.

Instagram-Worthy Photo Opportunities

The park offers numerous photo opportunities for Instagram enthusiasts. The Muir Woods National Monument is a popular spot for photos with its towering redwood trees and lush greenery. The park’s coastal views and scenic vistas also make for great photo opportunities.

Picnicking

The park offers numerous picnic areas including the Rock Spring Picnic Area which offers tables grills and restroom facilities. The area also offers stunning views of the park’s scenic vistas.

Season-specific experiences in Mount Tamalpais State Park

  • Spring activities

Springtime at Mount Tamalpais State Park brings an abundance of recreational activities for RV campers to enjoy. One popular attraction is the wildflower hikes through the park’s lush meadows which come alive with a colorful display of blooms during this season. The trailhead for the Steep Ravine Loop which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean is located near the Pantoll Campground.

Another must-visit spot is the East Peak Summit which can be reached by driving along the winding Panoramic Highway. From the top campers can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay Area including the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco skyline.

For history buffs the Gravity Car Barn Museum is a fascinating destination. Located near the Mill Valley entrance to the park this museum showcases the historic gravity cars that once transported passengers down the mountain’s slopes.

The park’s numerous picnic areas are perfect for a leisurely springtime lunch. One of the most popular spots is the Rock Spring Picnic Area which features tables nestled among towering redwood trees and offers easy access to several hiking trails.

Finally birdwatching is a popular activity in the park during the spring when a variety of migratory birds make their way through the area. The Bolinas Lagoon located near the park’s southern boundary is a prime spot for birdwatching with over 100 species of birds spotted in the area.

  • Summer activities

When summer rolls around Mount Tamalpais State Park becomes a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the most popular activities is hiking with trails ranging from easy to challenging. The Matt Davis Trail which starts near the Pantoll Campground is a favorite among hikers for its scenic views of the ocean and coastal redwoods.

Mountain biking is also a popular activity in the park during the summer months with several trails designated for biking. The Coastal Trail which runs along the park’s western edge offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is suitable for riders of all skill levels.

For those looking to cool off the park’s numerous swimming holes are the perfect destination. The Steep Ravine Trail leads to several secluded swimming spots including the popular Cascade Falls.

The park’s rich history is also on display during the summer months with ranger-led tours of the historic West Point Inn. This charming inn which dates back to the early 1900s offers a glimpse into the area’s past and features stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Finally the park’s numerous picnic areas are perfect for a summer barbecue. The Bootjack Picnic Area located near the Panoramic Highway features tables nestled among towering redwood trees and offers easy access to several hiking trails.

  • Fall activities

One popular fall activity for RV campers at Mount Tamalpais State Park is the annual Tamalpais Mountain Bike Race which takes place in late October. This challenging race attracts cyclists from all over the Bay Area and beyond who come to test their skills on the park’s rugged trails. The race starts at the park’s headquarters and winds its way through the mountains offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Another must-see landmark for fall visitors to Mount Tamalpais is the East Peak which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay Area. The East Peak can be reached by hiking or driving up the winding mountain roads and is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves are changing color. Visitors can also explore the historic East Peak Observation Deck which was built in the 1930s and offers a glimpse into the park’s past.

For those who prefer more low-key activities the park’s numerous hiking trails offer a chance to enjoy the fall foliage and wildlife. The Steep Ravine Trail for example takes hikers through a lush fern canyon and past several waterfalls while the Matt Davis Trail offers sweeping views of the ocean and coastline.

Another popular fall activity for RV campers is the annual Pumpkin Festival at nearby Nicasio Valley Farms. This family-friendly event features hayrides pumpkin picking and live music as well as delicious food and drink from local vendors.

Finally fall is a great time to visit the park’s many historical sites such as the Gravity Car Barn. This museum is dedicated to the history of the Mount Tamalpais and Muir Woods Railway which once transported visitors to the top of the mountain. Visitors can see restored gravity cars learn about the railway’s history and even take a ride on a replica car.

  • Winter activities

During the winter months Mount Tamalpais State Park offers a different set of recreational activities for RV campers. One popular winter activity is snowshoeing which allows visitors to explore the park’s snow-covered trails and take in the stunning winter scenery. The park offers several snowshoeing trails ranging from easy to challenging and rents snowshoes for those who don’t have their own.

Another winter activity for RV campers is sledding at the nearby Bootjack Picnic Area. This popular sledding spot offers a fun and family-friendly way to enjoy the snow and is easily accessible from the park’s main entrance. Visitors are advised to bring their own sleds or tubes as the park does not rent equipment.

For those who prefer indoor activities the park’s visitor center offers a variety of educational exhibits and programs. Visitors can learn about the park’s history geology and wildlife as well as attend ranger-led talks and workshops.

Another popular winter activity is birdwatching as the park is home to a variety of bird species that can be seen year-round. Winter is a particularly good time to see birds of prey such as hawks and eagles as they soar over the park’s mountains and valleys.

Finally winter is a great time to visit the park’s many waterfalls which are often at their most spectacular during the winter months. The Cataract Falls for example are a series of cascading waterfalls that can be reached via a moderate hiking trail. Visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear and clothing as the trail can be slippery and wet during the winter months.

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