Devil Gulch Group Campground
03 reviews8889 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Lagunitas, CA 94938
Devil Gulch Group Campground
$8.00 - $35.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$8.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard camping sites cost $35 per night, day-use parking costs $8. Additional fees apply for group sites, equestrian sites, and cabins. Extra vehicle fees may cost $15 per night.
About this campground
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.
Devil Gulch Group Campground offers tent camping and equestrian camping accommodations. The equestrian site is unique in including a corral, hitching racks, and water troughs.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds on storied ground within Samuel P. Taylor State Park, where history whispers through the trees. This land bears the legacy of Samuel P. Taylor himself, a visionary pioneer who not only built Northern California's first paper mill but also created one of the region's earliest recreational camping destinations. As you gather around your campfire, you're continuing a tradition of outdoor recreation that stretches back over a century, connecting modern adventurers to the area's rich heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Northern California's seasons at Devil Gulch, where summer days warm to a comfortable low 80s—perfect for hiking without the scorching heat found elsewhere. As winter arrives, the landscape transforms with crisp mornings hovering around freezing and the melodic patter of frequent rainfall nurturing the verdant hillsides. Seasoned campers know the secret here: pack layers to embrace the mountain's moods, from misty mornings to sun-drenched afternoons.
ElevationPerched at 935 feet above sea level, Devil Gulch offers a refreshing retreat from the heat of the valleys below. This elevated position gifts campers with crisp, clean air and panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills that seem to roll endlessly toward the horizon. The altitude creates a microclimate where morning mists dance through the valleys and evening breezes carry the scent of wild herbs and forest floor.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a California postcard where sweeping grassy meadows flow like golden rivers between groves of majestic live oaks, their gnarled branches creating natural sculptures against the sky. The landscape comes alive with the deep green of laurel trees, the distinctive red bark of madrone, and towering Douglas-firs that stand as sentinels over your campsite. Come spring, the hills burst into a painter's palette as buttercups splash yellow across the grasslands and Indian paintbrush adds bold strokes of crimson to nature's canvas.
Geological RegionDevil Gulch sits like a hidden gem within Marin County's diverse tapestry of landscapes, where ancient coast redwood groves give way to sun-dappled oak woodlands and rolling hills that seem to breathe with the seasons. This unique corner of the park showcases nature's artistry through its distinctive wide grassy slopes, punctuated by groves of live oak, aromatic laurel, and smooth-barked madrone trees. The undulating terrain tells the geological story of millions of years, creating the perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures in this quintessentially Californian landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are detailed for Devil Gulch Group Campground.
Sites SizeThe equestrian site can accommodate up to 20 people, while the tent-only sites can accommodate up to 10 people each.
Sites PrivacyThe equestrian-use site is specialized and may offer privacy due to its specific use restrictions, but there is no detailed commentary on privacy for the other sites.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe equestrian-use campsite is ideal for groups with horses. Tent-only group sites provide a quieter setting for smaller gatherings.
Best CampsitesThe equestrian group site is popular due to its specialized facilities, including a corral, hitching racks, and water troughs.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum occupancy per campsite is six persons. Group sites and cabins have different capacity limits.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six people maximum are allowed per campsite. Group sites can accommodate larger numbers.
Groups
The equestrian-use site accommodates up to 20 people and 12 horses, while two tent-only sites each accommodate up to 10 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout includes three distinct sites: two tent-only group sites and one equestrian-use-only site.
Open and Closed SeasonDevil’s Gulch Group Camp is open through mid-August and closed until the end of February.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through www.parks.ca.gov or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites may be available but are not guaranteed. Sites marked 'W' on the reservation platform indicate walk-up availability on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled without penalty up to 48 hours before check-in time. Different rules may apply for group or cabin bookings.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Devil Gulch Group Campground are closely tied to the broader offerings of Samuel P. Taylor State Park. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, equestrian activities, and nature viewing. Fishing is prohibited within the park to protect endangered species.
HikingThe Barnabe Peak trail, accessible from Devil’s Gulch, offers a 7-mile round-trip moderate hike with an elevation gain of 1,300 feet. Notable views include Point Reyes, Tomales Bay, and Mount Tamalpais. The trail begins at Devil’s Gulch and traverses through mixed forests, meadows, and historical sites.
BikingBiking is permitted on multi-use trails, including the Cross Marin Trail, which is partly paved and runs for approximately six miles through the park.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of black-tailed deer, coyotes, bobcats, and a variety of bird species such as kestrels and turkey vultures. Coho salmon and steelhead trout may be observed in Lagunitas Creek during spawning seasons.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in provided fire rings. Firewood can be purchased at the ranger station.
- Quiet hours are strictly enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsRaccoons and other wildlife frequently visit campsites, posing theft risks. Poison oak is prevalent. Ticks and yellowjackets can also be hazards.
Active alertsShowers and restrooms are closed due to limited water availability. Creek access is restricted between December 1st and June 15th to protect spawning salmon.
Weather forecast
52
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 91%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Foggy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency contacts: Dial 911. The closest hospital is MarinHealth Medical Center in Greenbrae, approximately 16 miles away. Police and ranger services are reachable at (415) 488-9897. Ranger station located at Camp Taylor entrance.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is generally during summer months (May through August), with high visitation on weekends.
Trash and recyclingFood lockers are provided for convenience but are not critter-proof. There is no mention of dedicated trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresNear Lagunitas Creek, though access is restricted seasonally to protect fish populations.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include noise disturbances from other campers and limited privacy at communal hike-and-bike campsites.
HostNo specific host information is available for Devil Gulch.
Campground Map
8889 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Lagunitas, CA 94938
Driving directionsFrom San Rafael, head west on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard for approximately 15 miles. Look for the 'Camp Taylor' entrance for camping or picnic activities. For Devil's Gulch, continue one mile west of 'Camp Taylor' and park in the large pull-out on the left side of the road. Walk across Sir Francis Drake Boulevard to access the trailhead.
The campground is accessible via a paved road, Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, but users are advised to park carefully if accessing Devil's Gulch trailhead. Seasonal closures or maintenance may affect nearby trails.Nearby places
San Rafael (15 miles, 30 minutes), Point Reyes Station (8 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Lagunitas (3 miles, approximately 5 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be obtained at Lagunitas (approximately 3 miles east). Additional supplies can be found in San Rafael (15 miles east).
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Devil Gulch Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the uniqueness of Devil Gulch Group Campground, emphasizing its equestrian-friendly features and scenic hiking trails. However, the absence of basic facilities like restrooms and showers is a noted drawback.
Review Summaries
The equestrian site is praised for its specialized facilities such as a corral and water troughs. Reviewers also appreciate the proximity to hiking trails offering scenic views and the peaceful...
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Common complaints include the lack of restroom and shower facilities and restricted access to potable water due to conservation measures.
Campers recommend bringing sufficient water supplies and preparing for minimal facilities. Equestrians are advised to ensure their horses are comfortable with the corral and hitching racks provided.
User experiences vary significantly by season. Summer is preferred for its warmer weather and accessibility to trails, whereas winter and spring bring challenges such as trail closures and cooler...
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"The equestrian campsite was perfect for our group of riders. Having a corral and water troughs on-site made everything so much easier." "The absence of flush toilets and showers was a bit of a...
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The equestrian site is often singled out as the best for those with horses, while tent-only sites receive mixed reviews due to limited amenities.
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features for campers with disabilities are available.
Pets are allowed at the campground, but must be kept on leashes and confined to tents or vehicles at night. Some users praise this policy for maintaining a safe and clean environment.
Last updated July 31, 2025