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Steep Ravine Cabins and Campground

16 units · Tent, Lodging

Get in on a little secret that lies just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco.

Let us introduce you to the elusive Steep Ravine Cabins and Campground in Marin.

On Mt. Tamalpais, just to the north of the city, there are a group of wooden structures that date back to the 1940s. They are insanely popular and rightfully so. Each cabin features a wood stove, picnic table and several benches, sleeping platforms, and of course, an outdoor barbeque.

The cabins do not have running water or electricity, but primitive toilets, water faucets, and firewood are nearby. The best attribute is that they all feature expansive ocean views, as they are perched high up on the side of a cliff.

The Steep Ravine Environmental Campground is also a great choice (if not one of the best in the area!) for Mount Tamalpais camping. If you like tent camping, then this is your spot. It’s also hugely popular and fills up fast, as there are only seven campsites.

It is on the western edge of the park, and just to make matters more awesome, they are all overlooking the ocean. There’s lots of privacy and tons to do right around camp.

The campsites are a few hundred yards from the parking area. Each site has a table, fire pit, food locker, and space for a tent. Primitive toilets and water faucets are nearby. There are no showers, but don’t worry... it’s totally worth it.

What this place offers
Campfire allowed
No pets allowed
No showers
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic tables
No sewage hookups
No electric hookups
16 units
Tent, Lodging
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97%
117 Ratings · 20 reviews
LocationSteep Ravine Cabins and Campground, Mount Tamalpais State Park, California, United States
Is anything missing?Suggest edits to improve this listing for fellow campers.
What this place offers
Campfire allowed
No pets allowed
No showers
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic tables
No sewage hookups
No electric hookups

Your guide to camping in Steep Ravine Cabins and Campground

Overview

Biking

While Mount Tamalpais is the birthplace of mountain biking it also offers unparalleled options for road bikers (not to mention it can be quite the challenge as well!). For road bikers, the main challenges are the infamous seven sisters and the twisting road to the top while mountain bikers can enjoy the Coast View and Dias Ridge multi-use trails as well as park fire trails.

Fishing

If you bring your fishing gear to Mt. Tam, you could easily come home with dinner. Lakes in the park have catches such as bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish. This is a wonderful place to go and “get away from it all,” all the while answering that rumbling in your stomach. Some of these reservoirs do have special guidelines, so be sure to read up before you go.

Hiking

There are more than 50 miles of trails within the park that connect to a much grander 200 mile trail system. The climb to the peak is an incredible journey that will be rewarded by stunning panorama views of the Bay Area. You know those days when the entire bay is foggy and cold? On those days, the peak of Mt. Tam rises majestically above the fogline only to be matched by its sister peak, Mt. Diablo across the bay. These foggy days may be our favorite time to hike the mountain - especially for sunrise! The Steep Ravine Trail is another favorite. You can start from Stinson Beach or the top at the Pantoll Ranger Station, either way you’ll be exploring the beautiful lush ravine with its waterfalls and old growth Redwoods. The shade protection makes this the perfect hike for a hot day. Reward yourself with a dip in the Pacific Ocean at the end! The hike up to Cataract Falls is another epic one There are also frequent guided hikes hosted by the amazing Friends of Mt Tam, open to the public.

Horseback riding

Mount Tamalpais is known for its beautiful views, and it can be even more beautiful when taken by horseback. Given the right day, you can see the Sierra Mountains and Farallon Islands in the distance. The park features a variety of trails, so saddle up!

Climbing

Mount Tamalpais is well suited for both novice and expert climbers. If you make it to the top, you won’t be disappointed - the peak features stunning views of the Pacific ocean. Climbing classes are available, and make sure you get an overview of the various routes.

Wildlife watching

Mount Tamalpais is a great place to see some of California’s wildlife . The park has more than 150 bird species along with deer, cats of prey and even the occasional gray whale spotted at Steep Ravine.

  1. Steep Ravine Cabins and Campground

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16 unitsTent, Lodging