Bicentennial Campground
4.3789 reviewsBicentennial Campground, Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Bicentennial Campground
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Tent-only, non-electric campsites are available for $25 per night. Reservation fees may apply for bookings made online ($8), via contact center ($9), or in-person ($3).
About this campground
Perched among windswept cypress trees on the dramatic Marin Headlands, Bicentennial Campground offers an intimate tent-camping experience where the wilderness meets the city. This secluded haven rewards adventurers with breathtaking panoramas of the Golden Gate Bridge glowing against San Francisco's skyline, while Pacific waves crash against the rugged coastline below. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape without venturing far from urban comforts, this small campground serves as a tranquil basecamp for hikers exploring the headlands' extensive trail network.
Bicentennial Campground is a tent-only, walk-in facility with a limit of three campsites. The campground does not accommodate RVs or car camping, and there are no options for group camping, cabins, or glamping.
Historical SignificanceCamping at Bicentennial means sleeping atop layers of fascinating military history. The surrounding Marin Headlands serve as an outdoor museum of America's coastal defense heritage, featuring massive 20th-century gun batteries that once guarded the Golden Gate. Nearby, the historic Point Bonita Lighthouse has guided mariners since the 1850s, while the preserved Nike Missile Site SF-88 offers a glimpse into Cold War tensions. These remarkable sites transform a simple camping trip into a journey through time, where each trail might lead to concrete fortifications or hidden bunkers with stories to tell.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground's coastal location creates a dynamic weather experience that changes with each passing hour. Persistent ocean breezes sweep across the bluffs throughout the year, growing stronger as darkness falls and creating a symphony of rustling cypress branches. Morning and evening fog often rolls in like a living blanket, temporarily veiling the spectacular views in mysterious beauty before burning off to reveal the stunning vistas once more. While rain rarely interrupts camping plans, the maritime climate brings crisp temperatures that can surprise unprepared visitors, especially during winter and spring nights when the thermometer dips low enough to see your breath in the moonlight.
ElevationThe campground occupies a privileged position atop the coastal bluffs, where rolling headlands meet the endless Pacific. This elevated vantage point places campers high above the crashing waves, offering commanding views that stretch from the Farallon Islands to the East Bay hills.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's grandeur unfolds in every direction from this cypress-sheltered sanctuary. The iconic Golden Gate Bridge frames the eastern horizon like a rust-colored masterpiece, while San Francisco Bay sparkles beneath its span. To the west, the vast Pacific Ocean stretches endlessly, its moods shifting from serene blue to tempestuous gray. The protective cypress grove creates a natural amphitheater where campers share their space with the headlands' wild residents – clever raccoons that emerge at dusk, coyotes whose haunting calls echo through the night, graceful deer browsing in nearby meadows, and wise owls hooting from their hidden perches.
Geological RegionBicentennial Campground sits within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty. The Marin Headlands' dramatic coastal bluffs tell a story written in stone and soil, rising from the confluence of San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Sheltering cypress groves cling to these windswept heights, framing panoramic vistas that encompass both the raw power of the open ocean and the glittering expanse of one of the world's most beautiful bays.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe 200-yard trail to the campsites is moderately steep and packed dirt. Accessibility may be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations.
Sites SizeEach site includes a small leveled tent pad, with some users noting that larger tents may not fit.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are close together (~50 feet apart) and lack significant privacy. However, the surrounding cypress grove offers some seclusion.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors recommend bringing a wagon for heavy gear and earplugs for fog horns. Sites are close together; renting all three ensures privacy.
Best CampsitesSite #3 is frequently praised for its shaded location and unobstructed views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is allowed any time after 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Up to 3 consecutive nights per visit, and 3 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 3 guests per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree campsites are positioned closely within a grove of cypress trees. Each site has a tent pad, picnic table, grill, and food storage locker.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round (January 1 - December 31).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned; reservations are recommended due to limited sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the reservation start date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (after midnight local time one day prior to check-in) forfeit the first night's use fee in addition to the cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is ideally situated for hiking and exploring the Marin Headlands. Activities include camping, hiking, mountain biking, and visiting nearby historic sites such as the Point Bonita Lighthouse, the Nike Missile Site, and coastal defense gun batteries. The site also offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and enjoying scenic vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco.
Hiking
Numerous trails in the Marin Headlands offer varying difficulty levels and scenic views. Day hikes to Rodeo Beach (1.5 miles) and Tennessee Cove are popular, and ambitious hikers can tackle a 9-mile trail to Muir Beach with significant elevation change.Biking
The area is suitable for both biking and mountain biking. Users noted that the Marin Headlands' trails are popular with cyclists.Wildlife viewing
Frequent wildlife sightings include deer, raccoons, coyotes, owls, and hawks. Visitors are advised not to feed wildlife and to store food securely to prevent encounters.Cultural and Educational Programs
Programs include ranger-led tours of the Nike Missile Site and Point Bonita Lighthouse. Seasonal birding and history hikes are also offered.Winter Activities
Limited winter activities due to strong winds and rain. The campground remains open year-round but requires proper preparation for cold and wet weather.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Wood fires are prohibited; only gas stoves and charcoal grills may be used.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent strong winds and occasional wildlife encounters (coyotes, raccoons) can pose challenges. Poison oak is present, especially near trails.
Active alertsPotential fire restrictions apply during wildfire season; check Recreational Fire Regulations before grilling.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 95%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 16.9 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
For emergencies, call 911 or Park Dispatch at (415) 561-5656. The nearest staffed emergency services are located in Sausalito.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31 (peak pricing applies year-round).
Trash and recyclingThe campground provides trash and recycling bins. Reviews indicate regular emptying and maintenance of these facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is approximately 1.5 miles from Rodeo Beach and overlooks San Francisco Bay.
Common complaintsReviews cite strong winds, uphill hiking trails from the parking area, proximity of campsites leading to noise, and lack of running water and fire pits as recurring issues.
HostNo specific host information is provided.
Campground Map
Bicentennial Campground, Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Driving directionsUpon entering the Marin Headlands, drive approximately 2 miles on Bunker Rd. Turn left onto Field Rd, and drive less than 0.5 miles uphill and make a left turn onto Rathbone Rd. There will then be an immediate right onto a one way road. You will see signs for Bicentennial Campground. Either parallel park on the road or in the small dirt pull-out.
The campground is accessible via paved roads up to the parking area. The trail to the campsites is a packed dirt path approximately 200 yards downhill, which makes accessibility challenging for individuals with mobility issues or for carrying heavy camping gear.Nearby places
Sausalito (15 minutes by car), San Francisco (about 20 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Sausalito is the closest town with access to groceries, camping supplies, and fuel, approximately a 20-minute drive from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.4
89 reviews
Bicentennial Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and proximity to San Francisco as major draws. However, challenges include the steep trail to the campsites, lack of water, and windy conditions. Many users recommend the campground for its tranquility and unique location, but caution that it may not be suitable for inexperienced campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 89 reviews
What Campers Love
• 'This tiny gem of only three campsites above the mouth of the Golden Gate Bridge is a must visit.'
• 'Spectacular sunrise views over the Golden Gate Bridge.'
• 'Quiet, clean, and private.'
Based on 89 reviewsCommon Concerns
• 'No water available at the campground.'
• 'Wind speeds and chill can be intense.'
• 'Campsites are close together with limited privacy.'
Based on 89 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
• Bring a rolling cart for transporting supplies up and down the trail.
• Prepare for wind and cold weather; bring earplugs for fog horns.
• Ensure all food is stored securely in bear-proof lockers...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and Fall are the most favorable seasons for camping due to moderate temperatures and clearer weather. Winter sees heavy rain and wind, making it less ideal. Summer fog can obscure views, but...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
• 'Billion dollar view for $20 a night.'
• 'The campsite was charming and beautiful. I enjoyed hiking and the beautiful views.'
• 'You can see the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco from the...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
• Site 3: Noted for the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge but slightly unlevel tent pads.
• Site 2: Full sun exposure, windy conditions, and proximity to the picnic area.
• Site 1: Closest to the...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility challenges include the steep 200-yard trail to the campsites. The campground is not recommended for those with mobility impairments.
Based on 89 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at Bicentennial Campground, with exceptions for trained service animals.
Based on 89 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025