RV camping near Corte Madera, California offers access to both bay and ocean views with elevation ranging from sea level to about 100 feet in most campgrounds. The coastal sites experience morning fog and afternoon clearing throughout summer months, while inland locations stay warmer. Sites along Highway 1 provide coastal access but experience traffic noise during peak tourist seasons.
What to do
Beach exploration: 30-minute walk from Bodega Bay RV Park to nearby shores. "Very enjoyable stay. The park is clean, quiet and there's a few trails that take you to the Beach. It's about a 30 min walk but an easy one," notes Brandon G.
Whale watching: Pacific viewpoints offer sightings from San Francisco RV Resort in Pacifica. "Spectacular sunsets over the pacific if the fog permits. Saw a couple whales too. When it's clear you can see the farralon islands 30 miles offshore," reports Tom H.
Cycling: Coastal trails accessible from several campgrounds. "Nice bike trail right on the water," notes Mike M. about San Francisco RV Resort, making it ideal for morning rides before crowds gather.
Walking paths: Bay views available near several parks. "Nice trail to walk along the water and cliff, nice restoration project going," mentions Jan G., highlighting opportunities for shoreline strolls without driving.
What campers like
Urban convenience: Grocery options within walking distance of Pillar Point RV Park. "Walking distance to shops and restaurants, walking and bike trails, beach access, and friendly staff!" says Raven P., highlighting the practicality of this location.
Transit access: Ferry options near Marin RV Park eliminate driving stress. "A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown San Francisco," shares Jeff T., making this location valuable for city exploration.
Laundry facilities: Limited availability at most parks. "Laundry has 3 washers and 3 dryers. Prices are high but normal for CA," reports Msmetoo48 S. at Bodega Bay RV Park, noting the practical amenities.
Weekend markets: Saturday shopping opportunities at Bodega Bay. "On Saturdays there is a farmer's market on the property adjacent to the park," Edward R. points out, providing a local food shopping option.
What you should know
Site spacing: Tight arrangements common at most parks. "Sites are gravel with a picnic table and divided by a fence. It's a packed place with no real views," explains Msmetoo48 S. about spacing expectations.
Road conditions: Challenging access for larger vehicles at many locations. "Sites are all gravel with a picnic table and divided by a fence," notes a camper at Bodega Bay RV Park.
Full-time residents: Long-term campers present at many parks. "Looks like many are residents here. The neighbouring lot is very deserted looking, and it just didn't feel safe. Dark, not well lit," reports Jan G. about San Francisco RV Resort.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects sleep quality at coastal sites. "Staying near a highway is a little loud at night... nice place to go explore the beach and trails," explains Jesus R. about Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Space limitations: Children's activities restricted at some parks. "No bike riding or scooting, so we had to walk them to the walking path. They also mention a few times about well behaved children," warns Stephanie E. about Bodega Bay RV Park policies.
Wildlife viewing: Morning marine life visible from harbor locations. "You can see the Milky Way at night while listening to the soft foghorn and every now and then a soft bark of a seal," describes Duranne C. at Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park.
Pet policies: Dog-friendly options with designated areas. "The dog runs were good," notes Linda A. about Bodega Bay RV Park, which provides spaces for pets to exercise away from other campers.
Safety considerations: Neighborhood quality varies by location. "The area is a bit industrial but quick access to San Fran and the other sites around town," mentions Mike M. about camping options, suggesting research before booking with children.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Site preparation essential at many locations. "Sites are gravel, not level and close together," reports Tammie L. about Novato RV Park, suggesting blocks and levelers are necessary equipment.
Hookup positioning: Extension cords needed at some sites. "Hookups are pretty far away and needed my sewer extension," notes C.W. about Treasure Island MH and RV Park, highlighting the need to pack extra connection equipment.
Site selection strategy: Book early for premium locations. "If you have slide outs, careful to not hit your neighbor!" warns C.W. about Treasure Island MH and RV Park, emphasizing the importance of securing wider spaces when available.
Arrival timing: Early check-in fees at some parks. "Do not go in early least you pay a $10 fee. They do maintain the grounds so an early arrival is not good," advises Linda A. about Bodega Bay RV Park's policies.
