Tent campsites near Belmont, California range from 800 to 2,600 feet in elevation, offering varied microclimates for campers. Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly even in summer, with coastal fog frequently rolling in during evening hours. Morning condensation is common at sites closer to the coast, requiring campers to properly waterproof tent floors.
What to do
Hiking options: Black Mountain Backpacking Camp provides access to several trails within Monte Bello Open Space Reserve. "The hike in is only 1.5 miles, but there's plenty of trail options to tack on more mileage on either the hike in or out," notes one camper at Black Mountain Backpacking Camp.
Explore coastal farms: When camping near the coast at Ben Ries Campground, visitors can access nearby agricultural attractions. "The campground is very close to PCH/Highway 1 and the beaches are lovely. PCH is also dotted with farms and fruit stands, artisan pies, etc. The closest town is Pescadaro, and has a tiny main street with an excellent coffee shop, and grocery store with fresh baked pies, breads, jams, sauces, and a deli counter," shared a camper.
Night sky viewing: Castle Rock Trail Camp offers opportunities for stargazing during clear nights. "Hard to find stars as you are canopied in trees but if you walk a little out, the night sky is dark and stars a plenty," mentioned a visitor about their camping experience.
What campers like
Separation between sites: Many campers appreciate the space between tent sites at Ben Ries Campground. A visitor noted, "Overall, the sites are spaced apart nicely." This provides privacy not always found at more crowded campgrounds.
Accessible backpacking: Castle Rock Trail Camp offers a manageable introduction to backpacking. "Hike a short 2.5mi to get to the campsite. 20 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings (when allowed). No other campers when I was there off season," shared one camper, highlighting the accessibility.
Weather conditions: The climate at coastal sites provides comfortable camping temperatures. "Night time was a lovely 55-59 degrees, easy to sleep, not too cold (first week in August)," reported a camper about their experience at Ben Ries Campground.
Convenience facilities: Many campers appreciate basic amenities that make primitive camping more manageable. "The pit toilet and bear boxes on site take a lot of the stress out for beginner backpackers," noted a visitor about Black Mountain Backpacking Camp.
What you should know
Water availability: Water access varies significantly between sites. At Half Moon Bay RV Park, full hookups are available, while Black Mountain requires carrying in all drinking water. Castle Rock Trail Camp has a communal water source, though it's occasionally deemed unsafe for drinking.
Reservation requirements: Most tent sites require advance booking. A camper at Black Mountain Backpacking Camp advised, "Reserve permits ahead of time and make sure to follow the rules posted online."
Fire regulations: Fire rules vary by location and season. A reviewer at Castle Rock noted, "Fires are increasingly banned in the dry months (i.e. most of the year) in California now, but in January, when I was there they were allowed."
Weather preparation: Coastal fog and temperature drops are common. "Great weather, lots of shade at the campsite and on the hikes. Coast was a cool 60's-70's but warm in the sun (the coast/beaches are windy)," reported a Ben Ries Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Towle Campground in Palo Alto Foothills Park provides accessible tent camping for families. Though reservations are limited to Palo Alto residents, the site includes amenities that make family camping more manageable.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for local wildlife sightings. "We did purchase firewood from the campground, and saw quite a few large banana slugs," mentioned a camper at Ben Ries Campground, highlighting a fascinating nature observation opportunity for children.
Easy hiking for kids: Multiple short trails are available from most campsites. "The park itself has great hikes, thick with Redwoods, immediately you feel like you are in Ewok territory. Lots of varying levels as well," shared a visitor about the trail system at Ben Ries Campground.
Bathroom facilities: Toilet availability varies by site. A camper at Castle Rock Trail Camp noted, "There are pit toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Fires are increasingly banned in the dry months in California now, but in January, when I was there they were allowed."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Rob Hill Campground explicitly states "RV, pop-up and camper-truck camping is not allowed in the Presidio. No hook-ups available." This restriction is common at many tent-focused sites near Belmont.
Size considerations: Half Moon Bay RV Park accommodates larger vehicles. "The site was a pull through as well as our friends who were able to face the opposite way to have a common camp side with us," noted a reviewer, mentioning the practical layout.
Electrical needs: Most tent-focused sites lack hookups. A camper at Half Moon Bay RV Park shared, "Full hook ups with 30 amp. (used my 50 amp adapter), no issues," highlighting one of the few locations offering electrical connections.
Long-term stays: Half Moon Bay RV Park permits extended stays. "We enjoyed our 4 week stay. We stayed thru the month of Nov 2021, and left Dec 3, 2021," noted a visitor, indicating the flexibility for longer-term camping needs compared to most tent sites.
