Creekside Loop Campground

Nestled within the breathtaking Samuel P. Taylor State Park in Lagunitas, California, Creekside Loop Campground offers a truly enchanting escape into the heart of Northern California's iconic redwood forests. This "magical place," as one visitor aptly described it, is a sanctuary of towering trees, lush greenery, and the soothing sounds of Lagunitas Creek. For California locals yearning to reconnect with nature, to breathe deeply in the shade of ancient giants, and to experience the tranquility of a pristine forest environment, Creekside Loop Campground presents an ideal and easily accessible destination.

More than just a place to pitch a tent, Creekside Loop provides a foundational experience for immersing oneself in the natural splendor of West Marin. It's a place where outdoor adventures begin, from serene strolls along the creek to invigorating hikes through dense woodlands. The campground's setting within Samuel P. Taylor State Park means access to a wealth of recreational opportunities, all framed by the extraordinary beauty of Marin County's rolling hills and majestic redwoods. It’s a perfect spot for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a memorable and profoundly beautiful camping experience right in their Californian backyard.

Creekside Loop Campground is conveniently located at 5 Taylor Park Rd, Lagunitas, CA 94938, USA, deep within the lush confines of Samuel P. Taylor State Park. This prime location in Marin County places it within easy reach for many Northern California residents, making it an excellent choice for a spontaneous weekend getaway or a planned family vacation.

The park is approximately a 40-minute drive from San Francisco, providing a relatively quick and scenic escape from urban environments. Access is straightforward via Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, which winds through picturesque West Marin. Upon entering Samuel P. Taylor State Park, the Creekside Loop is one of the primary camping areas, known for its proximity to Lagunitas Creek. The campground is a drive-in facility, meaning campers can park their vehicles directly at or very near their campsites, making it highly accessible for those with gear. Many sites can accommodate both tents and smaller RVs or trailers (typically up to 27 feet for trailers and 31 feet for RVs, though campers should always verify specific site dimensions). For those with accessibility needs, Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers designated accessible campsites within the Creekside Loop (specifically sites #15 & #21), as well as accessible restrooms and showers nearby, ensuring that the beauty of the redwoods can be enjoyed by a wide range of visitors. The park also features a partially paved Cross Marin Trail, which is wheelchair-accessible for 3.5 miles, providing easy, flat access along Lagunitas Creek for walking and biking.

• Varied Campsites: Creekside Loop offers a range of campsites suitable for both tent camping and small RVs or trailers. Sites are generally spacious, with reviewers noting "plenty of room" and the potential to fit "2-3 tents (depending on size) at this site and park 2 cars."

• Potable Water: Piped drinking water is available throughout the campground, a vital amenity for all campers.

• Flush Toilets: The campground is equipped with flush toilets and sinks with running water, providing a higher level of comfort than more primitive campgrounds. However, it's worth noting from customer reviews that the cleanliness of these facilities can be inconsistent, with one reviewer mentioning them being "disgusting" and needing more frequent cleaning.

• Showers: Hot showers are available, typically coin-operated, offering a welcome convenience after a day of exploring the park. Similar to the toilets, cleanliness can vary and is a point raised in some feedback.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite comes equipped with a sturdy picnic table, ideal for meal preparation, dining, and gathering.

• Fire Rings/Grills: Campsites feature fire rings or barbecue grills, allowing for campfires (when conditions permit) and outdoor cooking. Firewood may be available for purchase within the park, but it's always wise to check current fire restrictions.

• Food Storage Lockers: To protect food from local wildlife, secure food storage lockers are typically provided at individual campsites.

• Accessible Features: Samuel P. Taylor State Park makes efforts towards accessibility, with designated accessible campsites (like sites #15 & #21 in Creekside Loop), accessible restrooms, and some accessible trails like portions of the Cross Marin Trail.

• Majestic Redwood Forest Setting: The most striking feature of Creekside Loop is its immersion in a "dense forest of spectacular redwood trees." Campers are surrounded by "extraordinary beauty" and "stunning and amazingly gorgeous" redwoods, creating a truly awe-inspiring backdrop for any outdoor adventure. One reviewer called it "one of the most memorable campsites" due to this natural grandeur.

• Creek-side Views and Sounds: Many sites, particularly within the Creekside Loop, offer direct views and sounds of Lagunitas Creek. This provides a serene auditory experience and opportunities to observe the creek's ecosystem. Reviewers loved the "view of the creek" from their sites.

• Extensive Trail Network: Samuel P. Taylor State Park boasts a wide network of hiking and biking trails. From gentle strolls along the paved Cross Marin Trail to more challenging climbs up Barnabe Peak, there are options for all fitness levels. The park is an excellent hub for exploring the "local trails and creeks."

• Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black-tailed deer, raccoons, skunks, and various bird species. In late fall through winter, Lagunitas Creek is a vital spawning ground for endangered coho salmon and steelhead trout, offering unique viewing opportunities (seasonal creek access restrictions apply to protect spawning fish).

• Mild Climate: Marin County's coastal influence provides a mild, temperate climate, making camping enjoyable for much of the year, although fog is common, especially in summer mornings.

• Proximity to West Marin Attractions: Beyond the park, campers are ideally positioned to explore the charm of West Marin. Nearby towns like Point Reyes Station and San Anselmo offer unique shops, restaurants, and a glimpse into the local culture. Point Reyes National Seashore, with its dramatic coastline and elephant seals, is also just a short drive away.

Creekside Loop Campground is managed by California State Parks as part of Samuel P. Taylor State Park.

Address: 5 Taylor Park Rd, Lagunitas, CA 94938, USA.

Phone for Reservations and General Information: (415) 488-9897. This is the main number for Samuel P. Taylor State Park, where you can get information about camping, park rules, and current conditions.

Mobile Phone: +1 415-488-9897.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season (summer) and on weekends throughout the year, as this popular campground often fills up quickly. Reservations can be made through the California State Parks reservation system (ReserveCalifornia™).

For California locals, Creekside Loop Campground at Samuel P. Taylor State Park represents an accessible and deeply rewarding opportunity to reconnect with the natural world. Its prime location in Marin County means that residents of the Bay Area and beyond can quickly transition from urban landscapes to the serene embrace of a majestic redwood forest. This ease of access makes it ideal for spontaneous weekend escapes or planned family vacations, minimizing travel time and maximizing outdoor enjoyment.

The campground's direct immersion within the "extraordinary beauty" of the redwoods provides an immediate and profound sense of peace and wonder. Waking up surrounded by these ancient giants, with the tranquil sounds of Lagunitas Creek nearby, offers a unique and restorative experience that is hard to find elsewhere so close to major metropolitan areas. Families will appreciate the spacious campsites and the diverse network of trails suitable for all ages and abilities, including the accessible Cross Marin Trail. While cleanliness of facilities has been a past concern for some, the core draw of Creekside Loop remains its stunning natural setting and the abundance of outdoor activities available right from your tent door. From hiking and biking through lush forests to observing local wildlife, including the possibility of spotting spawning salmon, Creekside Loop Campground truly allows Californians to experience the very best of their state's natural heritage, leaving them refreshed, invigorated, and with memories to last a lifetime.

Creekside Loop Campground

5 Taylor Park Rd, Lagunitas, CA 94938, USA