Camping near San Francisco: Amazing Kirby Cove

Just north of the hustle and bustle of San Francisco is a quiet beach with superb camping and incredible views. Kirby Cove is part of the National Park Service and it has quickly become one of Northern California's most popular campgrounds. The small cove sports a beach just yards from four campsites nestled in the pine, cypress and eucalyptus trees; unique to this part of the Marin Headlands.

The camping is very basic, but with the views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the northern part of San Francisco you may not notice that the amenities are scarce. There is no water available and you must bring in your own firewood. Parking for the campsites is close and wheelbarrows are provided to haul your gear.

Kirby Cove camping books quickly. There is a day- use area with a bar-be-cue and picnic table which is often reserved as well. If you'd like to visit the park without reservations, be prepared to walk down the mile-long gravel road to the site. Those who make camping and day use reservations are given a code for the locked gate at the top of the hill and are allowed to drive down.

Kirby Cove was named for the Battery Kirby which operated between 1898 and 1934. The remnants of the battery remain, giving an opportunity to explore it's massive cement structure. The real gem, however, is the incredible view you get from the beach at Kirby Cove. Try it out on a full moon, and watch the magnificence as La Luna rises above the sweep of the Golden Gate.

For information on reservations, contact the National Park Service at (800) 365-CAMP or visit their website at http://www.recreation.gov