One Of California's Hidden Gem Campgrounds Is A Beautiful Site Near The Golden Gate Bridge

If you're looking for a unique camping getaway to San Francisco with gorgeous views, check out Kirby Cove Campground. This state campground is a remote walk-in campground down a steep hill that puts you right at the Golden Gate Bridge.

There are only five overnight campsites and one day-use site, making it a great little spot to get away from the crowds while seeing one of the most iconic views of the city. At only $25 per night for the overnight camp sites, it's an affordable option to visit San Francisco. These campsites do require a reservation and are a hot commodity because of the views, so if you want to score one of them, it might take some planning. The campground is open from April 1 to November 30. Reservations can be made up to three months in advance, so if you want to nab a spot, definitely set your alarm for when it opens up three months before you want to visit.

While you're camping at Kirby Cove Campground, there are attractions such as hiking and bird watching, or just taking in the unique views of the Golden Gate Bridge throughout the day. For history buffs, Battery Kirby was an active fort from 1898 to 1934. You can visit this fort in Kirby Cove at the bottom of the trail down to the beach. Best of all, it's only about a 30-minute drive from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – and you'll drive right through Golden Gate Park to get there.

Since the campground is remote, you need to plan to bring in all of your own water and supplies — and carry everything about 200 yards from the parking lot to your campsite. There are also pit toilets, but obviously no sinks, so bring more than just drinking water. It's a tent-only ground, so you'll have to carry in all of your gear — and take it out with you (including your trash).

Remember that since it's a steep downhill trail, you will have to make a steep climb back out to get back to your car. Due to the steep climb to the park, it is mostly inaccessible to people with disabilities, but don't worry — it is possible to get approval in advance to have vehicle access onto the beach for disabled guests. Also, pets aren't allowed at Kirby Cove, so you'll have to leave them at home for this trip. However, the water is usually calm, so it's perfect for swimming — but keep in mind that there are no lifeguards. The area is particularly good for biking and hiking, with a moderate two-mile hike from the parking area to the cove and back.

While you're packing up, keep in mind that San Francisco has notoriously fickle 'microclimates,' which means you should pack layers so that you're prepared for whatever weather comes your way. The temperatures are often mild in the area, with lows in the 50s and highs in the 60s, so layers will definitely come in handy.

The most budget-friendly time to visit San Francisco is actually autumn, but you should plan your trip based on what activities you want to do while you're visiting. Since the views are what you're largely coming to Kirby Cove for, keep in mind that the area can be very foggy sometimes, and especially so from May to September.

If you're a bird watcher, then visiting in the fall is ideal because you may catch a glimpse of migrating birds while you're there. If you're lucky, you may see birds like hawks, falcons, and other raptors as they head south for the winter. If you decide to go for a swim, just keep in mind that the Pacific is cold — even when the weather is warm. If you're looking to explore the area and see some other great views, Baker Beach is right across from Kirby Cove and is another great spot to catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge.

If you aren't able to get a campground reservation, you can still go to Kirby Cove to walk along the trail or enjoy the park by the beach and bluffs. While you can't guarantee when it will be foggy, hope for some clear skies to see the Golden Gate Bridge in all its glory.