Pantoll Campground
4.5852 reviews801 Panoramic Highway, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Pantoll Campground
$7.00 - $25.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$7.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are $25 per night for regular sites, which include 1 vehicle. Extra vehicles cost $8 per day. Hike-and-bike sites are priced at $7 per night.
About this campground
Tucked away in the enchanting forests of Mount Tamalpais State Park, Pantoll Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience just north of San Francisco. This intimate retreat features 16 first-come, first-served walk-in sites, each one a secluded haven approximately 100 yards from the parking area. Dense canopies of ancient trees create natural cathedral ceilings above your campsite, where you'll find everything needed for a memorable stay: sturdy picnic tables for evening meals, crackling fire pits for storytelling sessions, convenient grills for outdoor cooking, plus modern flush toilets and fresh potable water to keep you comfortable under the stars.
Pantoll Campground offers first-come, first-served tent camping with additional options for hike-in and accessible sites.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape steeped in centuries of human connection. Long before Mount Tamalpais became a beloved recreational paradise in the 19th century, the Coast Miwok people called these sacred slopes home, living in harmony with the land for thousands of years. Today, remnants of the mountain's colorful past whisper through the trees—from the historic Gravity Car Barn that once housed the famous 'Crookedest Railroad in the World' to ancient trails that have carried countless generations of adventurers to breathtaking vistas. Every path you walk connects you to this rich tapestry of cultural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic moods of California's coastal climate at Pantoll, where nature orchestrates an ever-changing symphony of weather. Morning fog rolls through the redwoods like a living thing, often condensing into gentle 'tree rain' that patters softly on tent roofs—a phenomenon unique to these misty mountains. Spring and summer bring glorious contrasts: sun-drenched days reaching into the comfortable 70s and 80s give way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire gatherings. As autumn arrives, the temperature settles into a mild rhythm, with fall and winter days hovering around a crisp 50 degrees—ideal weather for hiking without breaking a sweat.
ElevationPerched on the lower slopes of majestic Mount Tamalpais, Pantoll Campground offers the perfect basecamp for mountain exploration. Here, three distinct ecosystems converge in spectacular fashion: sun-baked chaparral clings to exposed ridges, stately oak woodlands provide dappled shade along winding trails, and mysterious redwood canyons plunge into cool, fern-lined depths. This unique positioning allows campers to experience the mountain's diverse personalities without venturing into the more challenging upper elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where towering redwoods and majestic Douglas firs create a verdant sanctuary. The campground pulses with life—melodious birdsong fills the air from dawn to dusk, while curious raccoons and wild turkeys occasionally parade through camp like local ambassadors. But the true magic reveals itself on the nearby trails, where each turn unveils panoramic treasures: the rolling Marin hills painted in golden grass, the sapphire expanse of San Francisco Bay glittering below, and on clear days, endless ocean vistas stretching to the horizon. This is California nature at its most cinematic.
Geological RegionPantoll Campground sits at the geological crossroads of one of California's most fascinating landscapes. Mount Tamalpais State Park showcases nature's architectural diversity across its 6,300 acres in the heart of Marin County. Here, chaparral-cloaked ridges rise like ancient sentinels above sweeping grasslands, while hidden valleys shelter groves of oak and bay laurel. Deep canyons carved over millennia cradle some of the region's last remaining old-growth redwoods, their roots anchored in distinctive serpentine rock formations that tell the story of tectonic forces at work. Just miles from the infamous San Andreas Fault, this dynamic landscape continues to evolve, offering campers a front-row seat to California's ever-changing geological theater.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAn accessible campsite near the parking lot and restroom is available. The ranger station has accessible parking and provides maps of surrounding trails.
Sites SizeSites are decently sized, with flat surfaces suitable for tents. Some sites are larger and offer more privacy than others.
Sites PrivacySites are well-spread out, offering moderate privacy depending on the location within the campground.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for sites closer to the parking lot for easier access or higher hilltop sites for better views.
Best CampsitesSites 14–16 are noted for their elevated location and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Payment is made at the ranger station upon arrival.
Check-out
Campers must vacate sites by noon.
Stay Limit
- First-come, first-served basis only
- reservations are not available.
Guests Allowed Per Site
All regular sites include 1 vehicle and accommodate up to 5 people.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned for Pantoll Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged along a hillside, with the majority close to the parking lot and some higher up the hill.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with restrictions during severe weather conditions.
Reservation PlatformsNone, as sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served only for all 16 sites; arrive early to secure a spot, especially during weekends and holidays.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations are not accepted.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
WiFi
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Pantoll Campground is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and proximity to iconic spots like Stinson Beach and Muir Woods. Seasonal fog and unique weather patterns add to the ethereal experience of the area.
HikingPantoll Campground is surrounded by numerous trails, including the Dipsea and Matt Davis Trail loop, Steep Ravine Trail, and Lower Old Mine Trail. Trail lengths range from short accessible walks to challenging hikes with stunning vistas.
BikingCampground location supports road biking on challenging routes like the Seven Sisters climb and nearby multi-use trails.
Wildlife viewingCampers can observe turkeys and other wildlife in abundance. Seasonal bird migrations also provide birdwatchers with opportunities to spot various species.
Beach activitiesActivities are available near Stinson Beach, accessible via hiking trails from Pantoll.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsGuided hikes and interpretive programs are offered year-round. Nearby, the Mountain Theater hosts events including astronomy programs.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire pits and are prohibited during red flag alerts.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated, but rowdy groups are occasionally reported.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include poison oak, ticks, raccoons, and mountain lions. Fog can create condensation, making certain areas appear as if it's raining. High winds are also reported near hilltop sites.
Active alertsStorm-related closures and possible trail hazards are common, including fallen trees, limbs, and rock slides.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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
Mill Valley Fire Department (9 miles); Marin General Hospital (10 miles); Pantoll Ranger Station (on-site).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak visitation periods include spring and summer; weekends and holidays tend to be particularly busy.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but there is no explicit mention of recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Webb Creek and close to trails leading toward Stinson Beach and Muir Woods.
Common complaintsLack of reservable sites and occasional rowdy campers. Fog condensation often leads to wet campsites.
HostPantoll Ranger Station is on-site and staffed during operational hours. Rangers are noted for being helpful and friendly.
Campground Map
801 Panoramic Highway, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Driving directionsFrom Highway 101 north of San Francisco, take Highway 1 to the Stinson Beach exit and follow signs up the mountain. Note that the campground is located off Panoramic Highway.
Pantoll Campground is accessible from Panoramic Highway, which is paved. Seasonal closures may occur due to weather conditions, including closures of Pantoll Road. Road access may be challenging during storms due to fallen trees, limbs, or rock slides.Nearby places
Mill Valley (9 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Stinson Beach (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
San Francisco (approximately 20 miles, about a 40-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Firewood, maps, pins, stickers, and basic supplies can be purchased at the Pantoll Ranger Station. Additional camping supplies, groceries, and fuel may be obtained in Mill Valley.
Camper Reviews
4.6
52 reviews
Pantoll Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Pantoll Campground’s scenic beauty, cleanliness, and proximity to outdoor activities. However, the lack of reservation options and occasional parking issues are noted.
Review Summaries
Clean bathrooms, large campsites, plenty of tree cover, and convenient access to trails. Campers appreciate the peaceful ambiance and beautiful surroundings.
Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends. Some campers expressed dissatisfaction with rowdy behavior and lack of privacy at certain sites.
Arrive early to secure a site, especially on weekends. Prepare for foggy and wet conditions, even in summer. Bring waterproof gear and a good tent to stay dry.
Winter reviews mention less crowded conditions and easier access to sites, while summer reviews highlight the high demand for camping spots. Fog and condensation are frequently noted regardless of...
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"Great camping location that is surrounded by many trails. This campground is first come first serve." "The campsites get rained on from condensation in the trees—you really think it's raining until...
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Sites 14-16 are noted for their elevated positions offering nice views. The accessible site is praised for its proximity to facilities.
One accessible campsite is available near the parking lot and restroom. Accessibility features are appreciated by reviewers.
Dogs are allowed in developed areas but prohibited on trails and backcountry zones. Campers noted the campground is suitable for pets, as long as they are leashed.
Last updated July 20, 2025