Tent camping near Daly City, California presents logistical challenges that many visitors don't anticipate. The coastal region experiences frequent summer fog with temperatures averaging 10-15°F cooler than inland areas. Most campgrounds require reservations months in advance, with Angel Island sites booking up to six months ahead and weekend spots filling within minutes of availability.
What to do
Beach access from camp: From Steep Ravine Campground, campers can access secluded beaches during low tide. "The wildlife is off the hook..I've seen deer in the seaside vernal pools, wild miniature ocean bunnies boxing in the morning sunshine, and a great white shark off the cliffs one fine day," notes one visitor.
Morning wildlife viewing: Early risers at Haypress Campground might spot local wildlife. "There are owls perched in eucalyptus trees next to the campsite, and coyotes. Came across one on the way back from a sunset hike to the beach," reports a camper.
City camping: Experience urban camping at Rob Hill Campground, the only overnight campsite within San Francisco city limits. The campground has "4, 30 person, group sites. Pitch tent on wood chips. Level. Fire pits, water. Nice and close, yet feels a ways away. Accessible to many trails."
Island exploration: At Angel Island State Park, visitors can hike the entire island in a day. "The island itself is about a 5 mile hike from one end to the other with a very modest elevation gain so it's definitely worth doing," shares a reviewer who recommends getting "a campsite towards east ridge so you can get a view of Alcatraz and both the Bay and Golden gate bridge."
What campers like
Night sky views: The darkness at Bootjack Campground allows for stargazing despite proximity to urban areas. A camper shares, "you can see the city shine in the distance," making this walk-in site particularly special for astronomy enthusiasts.
Campground layouts: At Bicentennial Campground, site selection matters. "Site 3 is closest to the views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the trails connected to the campground but they all have easy access," notes a visitor who enjoyed the "gorgeous sunset and sunrise from camp or even better up the closest hill which is a 6 minute walk tops."
Historic features: Many campsites feature remnants of earlier park development. At Bootjack, "many of the sites feature beautiful historic stone grills. Some of the sites are two levels. Many are next to the creek," creating unique camping experiences.
Solitude options: Haypress Campground offers surprising privacy despite being close to urban areas. A camper explains it's a "meadow sites against a row of trees. There is very little privacy between sites but the couple times I have been here it was not full. It can get windy - there is some shelter under the trees."
What you should know
Site spacing and noise: While most campsites appear secluded, proximity varies significantly. At Bicentennial Campground, "all three sites are next to each other and have no seperation," while a Bootjack visitor warns, "most sites are near the road and you'll hear bicycles all night."
Reservation requirements: For popular sites like Hawk Campground, advance planning is essential. A visitor clarifies, "you need to make reservations through recreation.gov for one of the three sites up there. Also, it's $25 as listed on the site. Not a place for stealth camping due to the requirement for a parking permit."
Water availability: Many campgrounds lack reliable water sources. At Haypress, campers are reminded: "You are on your own here. Bring your own water. No fires." The campground provides only "a picnic table and a food storage locker, nothing else."
Weather preparation: Fog and wind affect all coastal camping sites. A camper at Bicentennial notes "it was to windy to put up our tent," while others suggest bringing layers regardless of season as "mornings can get foggy here, so bring a sweatshirt regardless of the season."
Tips for camping with families
Group site options: For family reunions or large gatherings, Alice Eastwood Group Camp offers exceptional facilities. "There are two group spots. Group A holds 50 people. There is a kitchen area with a huge grill and a large canopy covering a dining area. Group B holds 25 and has more privacy."
Alternative Muir Woods access: Alice Eastwood provides a back entrance to crowded Muir Woods. A visitor explains, "For those familiar with the area, getting into the Muir Woods can be huge hassle. You have either reserve a parking spot in advance, or take a shuttle into the park... Alice Eastwood group camp is one such spot" that allows alternative access.
Carry distance planning: When camping with children, consider the walk-in distance. At Bicentennial, a visitor warns, "Had to walk all the way down to get to the camp site with all the gear," while another at Haypress notes it's "about a 0.75 mile hike from the Tennessee Valley trail head."
Safety considerations: Keep wildlife precautions in mind. Most campgrounds provide food lockers, and visitors should always secure food. Campers regularly report raccoon and coyote activity throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Full-hookup RV camping near Daly City is scarce, with Half Moon Bay RV Park being one of few options. A recent visitor notes, "Full hook ups with 30 amp. (used my 50 amp adapter), no issues."
Proximity to trails: From Half Moon Bay RV 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."
Tight spacing: Expect compact sites at most RV parks in the area. One reviewer mentions, "Our site was a little tight, that would be the only thing I wish was better. Most of the other available sites are much larger with picnic tables and grills."
