Most RV camping near El Cerrito, California falls within a 30-mile radius of the urban Bay Area environment. The region's Mediterranean climate offers mild temperatures year-round, with summer highs rarely exceeding 75°F and winter lows seldom dropping below 45°F. Wind conditions vary significantly by location, with waterfront campgrounds experiencing stronger gusts than inland options.
What to do
Beach access from camp: The coastal trail at Pillar Point RV Park puts campers within walking distance of shoreline activities. "Walking distance to shops and restaurants, walking and bike trails, beach access, and friendly staff!" notes Raven P., though she cautions about traffic noise and tight spaces when the park is full.
Ferry to San Francisco: Camp at Marin RV Park for easy public transit access to the city. Jeff T. explains, "Drive in, park and then walk to all the sights you want to see in San Francisco. A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown San Francisco."
Whale watching: Oceanfront sites at San Francisco RV Resort offer opportunities to spot marine life. Tom H. shares, "When it's clear you can see the farralon islands 30 miles offshore. Saw a couple whales too."
What campers like
Urban camping convenience: Candlestick RV Park provides access to city attractions. "Used this spot to attend an event at the Marconi Center and commuted on my bike without issue," reports Mike M., who found the campground amenities worked well despite the challenging neighborhood.
Grocery proximity: Many parks offer nearby shopping options. At Marin RV Park, Kathy S. notes there's a "Trader Joe's and Chevron a few blocks away," making supply runs convenient during your stay.
Level sites: Despite the hilly terrain around El Cerrito, Rio Viento RV Park offers stable parking. Kelly N. appreciates the "very nice large sites with large grass areas," and calls it "pet friendly" with "amazing helpful and friendly staff."
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Some parks have difficult booking systems. At Treasure Island MH and RV Park, one camper found "reservation making is a pain since it's all via email/online," and noted sewer hookups were "pretty far away" requiring extensions.
Space limitations: Most RV parks near El Cerrito feature compact sites. Brodie D. observed at San Francisco RV Resort that "if we would both open our front doors at the same time, there would be a bit of an awkward 'oops, sorry! You go first' situation."
Road conditions: Access routes can be challenging at certain parks. Kelly N. warns about Rio Viento RV Park: "The road in is very bumpy, so take your time," though she adds it's "worth the drive."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for parks with space for children to stay active. Rosie R. mentions San Francisco RV Resort has "nothing in terms of entertainment for kids. Thank goodness we brought the kids' bikes!!"
Pool availability: Half Moon Bay RV Park offers facilities appreciated by long-term guests. Gary R. explains, "Facilities are clean, the atmosphere friendly and hospitable," and mentions the "excellent trail that goes on forever within walking distance."
Security considerations: Some campgrounds offer better security than others. Gary R. found Half Moon Bay RV Park "clean and secure," noting, "There are many full time residents that take pride in their community and it shows."
Tips from RVers
Wi-Fi realities: Internet access varies widely. Kelly N. calls Rio Viento RV Park "very nice" but notes "my only complaint is no Wi-Fi," while Luke D. found San Francisco RV Resort had dependable connectivity included with the higher rates.
Site surface types: Parking surfaces differ between parks. Al M. describes Marin RV Park as having "gravel, but it's level and clean" with "free excellent wifi and over 100 TV channels with full hookups."
Registration timing: Arrive early for smoother check-in experiences. At Tradewinds RV Park, Robert W. made "reservations Thursday afternoon for 3 nights" and found "decent clean facilities" with "no complaints."