RV camping near El Granada, California offers coastal access within 30 minutes of San Francisco. Sites in this region typically experience foggy conditions throughout summer mornings, with afternoon temperatures averaging 65-75°F year-round. Most RV parks in the area remain open through winter, though coastal winds intensify during December through February.
What to do
Beach exploration: San Francisco RV Resort provides access to a coastal walking trail along the bluffs. "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," notes Tom H. The park sits on a cliff above the Pacific.
Biking opportunities: Many RV parks connect to bike paths along the coastline. "Nice bike trail right on the water," reports Mike M. about San Francisco RV Resort. The coastal paths extend for several miles, connecting different beach access points.
Santa Cruz activities: Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort serves as a convenient base for boardwalk visits. "Santa Cruz is only a 10 minute ride down Hwy 9," mentions Pat F. The campground sits in redwoods next to the San Lorenzo River, offering a natural contrast to beach activities.
What campers like
Ocean views: From elevated sites at coastal parks, whales and distant islands become visible on clear days. "On a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It has a ca beach town feel, but is just 20 minutes from San Francisco," writes Tom H. about San Francisco RV Resort.
Redwood camping atmosphere: Cotillion Gardens RV Park offers sites surrounded by mature redwoods. "Sites are a little tight but worth being nestled in the redwoods. Lots of hiking and exploring right from the campsite," shares Jacob B. This park remains significantly cooler in summer than open coastal sites.
Convenient amenities: RV parks near El Granada typically maintain clean facilities despite high usage. "Clean, has some views from far border of the hills but the spots are tight and there is not much to do but hook-up," reports Mary C. about Trailer Villa RV Park. Most parks provide full hookups though space remains limited.
What you should know
Tight spacing reality: Nearly all RV parks near El Granada maximize space at the expense of site width. "Spots are tight. Staff is great! Laundry hot tub pool are always clean. Right on the ocean (on a cliff)!" explains Corrie G. about San Francisco RV Resort.
Variable internet connectivity: Marin RV Park provides reliable WiFi despite cellular limitations. "Free excellent wifi and over 100 TV channels with full hookups," notes Al M. Other parks charge additional fees for internet access or offer limited bandwidth.
Reservation essentials: Many campers report frustration with last-minute booking attempts. "After-hours check-in was a breeze, as the checkin instructions were taped to the main door of the office at the park entrance," mentions Tony C. about Trailer Villa RV Park. Reservations should be made 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends.
Weather considerations: Coastal fog affects morning visibility year-round. "The park is clean, in a nice area and close to San Jose and San Francisco," states Kim O. Morning temperatures often remain in the 50s even during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Pillar Point RV Park offers convenient beach access for families. "Walking distance to shops and restaurants, walking and bike trails, beach access, and friendly staff!" shares Raven P. The park connects to a network of paved paths suitable for children's bikes.
Pool availability: Several parks maintain pools for children despite limited overall amenities. "Kids liked the pool and clubhouse. Look forward to our next visit," reports Jacob B. about Cotillion Gardens RV Park. Pool hours typically run 10am-8pm during summer.
Safety considerations: Some parks enforce strict quiet hours to accommodate families. "Spots were leveled with dirt. No tent camping allowed in RV sites," notes GotelRV about Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort. Most parks maintain quiet hours from 10pm-8am.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: RV sites throughout the region generally provide concrete pads. "The grounds are clean; parking pads are concrete and flat; and drive lanes AND parking spots are wide and spacious for maneuvering large RVs," shares Tony C. about Trailer Villa RV Park. Most sites require minimal leveling.
Hookup locations: Half Moon Bay RV Park provides full-service connections though some require extensions. "The site was a pull through as well as our friends who were able to face the opposite way to have a common camp side with us. Of course the utility sides were in great position for that. Full hook ups with 30 amp. (used my 50 amp adapter), no issues," explains Patrick J.
Site selection strategy: Many parks offer premium locations at significantly higher rates. "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose. Shore chord was fine as was the water spigot," mentions Patrick J. about Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort. Requesting specific sites when booking improves placement odds.
