Cabins and tent sites near Daly City provide coastal access at temperatures that rarely climb above 65°F during summer months. The weather pattern creates morning fog and afternoon clearings that affect camping conditions year-round, with a 30-60 minute average driving time from Daly City to most campgrounds. Winter camping often sees nighttime temperatures drop into the 40s, requiring proper bedding even in glamping accommodations.
What to do
Hike to hidden beaches: At Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground, trails connect to miles of sandy shoreline. "Beautiful walk in site (about 200 feet from car). other sites were crowded (more of a parking lot) but amazing location with access to beach," writes Theresa N.
Wildlife spotting along coastal trails: Olema Campground offers access to Point Reyes National Seashore where visitors regularly spot deer, seals and shorebirds. "We nestled our Sprinter between to large pine trees and took the dog for a walk. Then headed down the road for our first dinner indoors since February!" notes Maureen F.
Explore Marin Headlands: At Bicentennial Campground, you'll find three tent sites with views of the Golden Gate Bridge. "Short hike down service road from car to sites (~200'). Port-a-potty was serviced/clean. At the parking/picnic site at top of road there's a regular toilet," reports Nicole.
Visit hot springs: Seasonal tidal conditions create natural hot springs near some coastal sites. At Steep Ravine Campground, "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... and we didn't even get into the mermaid hot springs gracing the beaches during super low tides!" shares Nikata L.
What campers like
Ocean proximity: Sites at Steep Ravine Campground perch directly above the Pacific. "Georgeous spot to pitch your tent on the ocean cliffs. Unique and wonderful place to camp. Lots of space between you and other campers. Wear layers of clothing. Can't beat the view!" reports Kelly S.
Urban escape: Rob Hill Campground offers rare in-city glamping near Daly City with surprising seclusion. "Looked like there was easily room for at least a dozen small tents at each of the sites and nice restrooms accessible via combination punch pad," writes Elliott B.
Redwood groves: Samuel P. Taylor State Park provides old-growth forest camping. "Lovely site in redwoods. Sites are close, but have some privacy. Stream is accessible shallow. Beautiful trees," notes gabriel F.
Shower facilities: Many campgrounds in the area provide hot showers, essential for longer stays. "Bathrooms and showers on site. We stayed in a spot without hookups and it was $35 per night. Gate staff was friendly and helpful," reports Michell C. at Half Moon Bay State Beach.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Steep Ravine cabins and coastal sites book months in advance. "This is the number one most difficult to reserve spot in all of California (and therefore presumably all of America)?! You need to be ready to click 'reserve' on the website at no less than 5 minutes before the window opens for your dates of interest," advises Adam.
Mice issues in cabins: Prepare accordingly if staying in rustic structures. "Mice. There were several brand new mouse traps provided at the entrance to my cabin. You'll need them. In two days, I caught three and actually had to buy more traps," warns Adam about the Steep Ravine cabins.
Weather variability: Coastal fog can make glamping near Daly City unexpectedly cold. "Bring layers of functional clothes since the weather on the coast of the SF bay can be anything from roasting to foggy frigid cold during the day and night year round. Don't just look at weather online and go," cautions Patrick O.
Limited facilities: Some sites lack amenities. "Only 3 tent sites available, You have to reserve ahead of time, No drive in access, unloading our staff was very big work," reports Jasim at Bicentennial Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers organized recreation for children. "Playgrounds, swimming pool, lots of space to run and scream. We stay when visiting the area and endure the screaming kids. The kids do have fun, I give them that," shares Linda A.
Noise considerations: Samuel P. Taylor State Park can get crowded during peak times. "Because of the holiday and the proximity to Oakland/San Fran, the campground was in FULL EFFECT with a gang of variant families camp site hopping," explains Kathleen C.
Creek access: Several campgrounds offer shallow water play areas for children. "The stream is accessible shallow. Beautiful trees," notes gabriel F. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Site selection strategy: For more privacy with families, choose strategically. "Sites 47-44 had no one across the way, more private, set back... if I returned I would snag site 44. Just trust me on this," recommends Kathleen C.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: At Half Moon Bay State Beach, "Limited electrical hookups" are available according to Jill F., so arrive early or reserve sites with utilities well in advance.
Tight spaces: Many RV campgrounds have narrow sites. At Treasure Island MH and RV Park, "Spaces for rvs are unpaved and additional cars are on cement. Hookups are pretty fast away and needed my sewer extention. There are full time residents along with short term. If you have slide outs, careful to not hit your neighbor!" warns C. W.
Road access challenges: Larger rigs face difficulties navigating to some coastal sites. "It's a classic, twisty ride on Highway 1 to get to the entrance, and then another steep, curvy ride down to the campground. Campers sensitive to motion sickness or vertigo be warned," advises Adam about accessing Steep Ravine.
Convenience versus natural setting: RVers must balance hookup needs with experience. "This has it all. Beautiful beach walking distance from campground. Bike or walking trails to wonderful beaches and places to eat. Short drive to many other areas. small but good size sites for where it is," explains Carina B. about Half Moon Bay.
