RV sites near Berkeley, California are primarily located in urban or suburban settings due to the region's dense development. Most campgrounds in the area offer full hookups with 30 and 50-amp electric service, though sites tend to be compact with limited space between neighboring units. Winter temperatures in the area rarely drop below 40°F, making year-round camping viable, though Bay Area fog can create damp conditions from June through August.
What to do
Explore coastal trails: At Pillar Point RV Park in Half Moon Bay, campers have direct access to beachfront walking and biking paths. "Walking and bike trails, beach access, and friendly staff! Only cons are the extremely busy road is right next to the park," notes Raven P.
Visit San Francisco via public transit: The ferry near Marin RV Park provides a traffic-free route into the city. "A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown San Francisco. We spent a week here and only drove when we wanted the experience driving down Lombard St," shares Jeff T.
Experience beachcombing and whale watching: From oceanfront sites at Half Moon Bay RV Park, guests can walk a quarter mile to coastal paths. "From the park you can head about a quarter of a mile and walk or ride the coastal path all the way to the marina or south to the Ritz Carlton. Great ocean views," reports Patrick J.
What campers like
Ocean views: At some coastal parks, campers can spot marine wildlife from their sites. "If you are lucky enough to be in the front you'll have a sweet view. Definitely not my favorite place but if you need a place to stay the upside is the fact that it's right on the water," explains Alicia F. about Pillar Point RV Park.
Urban accessibility: RV parks around Berkeley offer proximity to major urban attractions. "30 mins away from the City. A bit pricy but that is to be expected in SF. Clean facilities but make no mistake about it... this is a parking lot with hook ups and the sites are in arms length in proximity to each other," notes Raf A. from Marin RV Park.
Security features: Sonoma County Fairgrounds RV Park, though further from Berkeley, provides additional safety measures. "They had a security guard on site until 11 PM every night so that was a plus," mentions Duncan G.
What you should know
Site spacing constraints: Most Berkeley-area RV parks feature minimal separation between sites. "The sites are narrow specially if you have slides out," warns Jean-Yves P. about Marin RV Park.
Road noise considerations: Coastal parks often sit near highways. "Loved the view but sleeping near a highway is a little loud at night... nice place to go explore the beach and trails," mentions Jesus R. about his stay at Pillar Point RV Park.
Variable internet access: WiFi quality differs significantly between parks. "Free excellent wifi and over 100 TV channels with full hookups. San Fran price though," reports Al M. about Marin RV Park.
Extended stay demographics: Many parks have significant numbers of permanent residents. "The RV part is comprised of 80% permanent residents. All rigs look to be maintained and sites without clutter. I was impressed really," notes Patrick J. about Half Moon Bay RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: San Francisco RV Resort offers swimming facilities, though quality varies. "Rec area was very run down. Laundry has mobile payment and was clean and accessible," reports Sary W.
Entertainment options: Many Berkeley-area parks lack children's facilities. "There are a few picnic tables around, but nothing in terms of entertainment for kids. Thank goodness we brought the kids' bikes!" advises Rosie R.
Alternative recreation: Urban-adjacent parks offer access to city attractions rather than on-site activities. "The location is really convenient given that the ferry and bus stops are within walking distance (10 min walk or 5 min drive). We parked the RV at the ferry station and were able to enjoy a day of San Francisco without worrying about the RV," explains Luc M.
Tips from RVers
Campsite positioning: At Tradewinds RV Park, site design allows easier maneuvering. "Sites are close together but easy entry. Level sites with FHU's," reports Mike H.
Utility extensions: Some parks have distance issues with hookups. "Hookups are pretty far away and needed my sewer extension," warns C.W. about Treasure Island RV Park.
Reservation processes: Booking procedures vary widely between facilities. "Reservation making is a pain since it's all via email/online," notes C.W. about Treasure Island RV Park.
Slide-out considerations: Limited spacing affects larger rigs with slide-outs. "The spaces for RVs are unpaved and additional cars are on cement. If you have slide outs, careful to not hit your neighbor!" cautions C.W.
