RV campgrounds near Fairfax, California provide access to both coastal and inland settings within 30-45 minutes of driving distance. Most camping facilities in the area operate year-round with higher occupancy during summer months when temperatures average 70-85°F. Fall and spring seasons offer more availability while winter camping requires preparation for occasional rain and cooler temperatures in the 40-55°F range.
What to do
Beach exploration: 15-20 minute drive from Fairfax to multiple coastal access points. "It's a bit industrial but quick access to San Fran and the other sites around town. Nice bike trail right on the water," notes a visitor at San Francisco RV Resort.
Wine tasting: Sonoma County vineyards located 20-30 minutes north of Fairfax. "Lots of nice walking opportunities!" mentions a camper staying at Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park, which serves as a good base for exploring the coastal vineyards.
Coastal hiking trails: accessible from several campgrounds. "When it's clear you can see the farralon islands 30 miles offshore," reports one camper about views from trails near Pacifica. "We even saw whales too" during spring migration periods.
Farmers markets: seasonal options throughout the region. "On Saturdays there is a farmer's market on the property adjacent to the park," notes a reviewer about Bodega Bay RV Park, adding convenience for fresh produce shopping.
What campers like
Ocean proximity: waterfront sites available at coastal parks. "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 a visitor to Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park. Several campers mention seeing whales during migration season.
Public transportation access: reduces driving needs. "30 mins away from the City. A bit pricy but that is to be expected in SF," notes a camper at Novato RV Park. The park's location allows for commuting into San Francisco without moving your RV.
Clean facilities: regularly maintained at select parks. "Bathrooms and showers clean and the staff is great. Will be back often," comments a visitor to San Francisco RV Resort. Multiple reviewers note the attention to cleanliness at the better-maintained facilities.
Location convenience: proximity to local attractions. "For what this RV park is designed to be, it is done very well. It's a parking lot with full hookups strategically located to public transit direct to San Francisco," explains a camper about Marin RV Park.
What you should know
Site spacing variations: most parks have limited separation between sites. "Spots are narrow. The ground is made up of small rocks, but is perfectly level," describes one camper. At San Francisco RV Resort, another visitor notes "it's more like a parking lot than a campground, but everyone is friendly and the overall vibe is good."
Reservation requirements: essential for weekend stays. "Made reservations Thursday afternoon for 3 nights. Decent clean facilities," reports a camper at Tradewinds RV Park. During summer, parks fill quickly, especially those closer to San Francisco.
Price considerations: premium locations command higher rates. "Price is higher than other places but this close to the city with all of the amenities a pretty good deal," notes one camper. Rates increase during summer months and at parks with ocean views.
Cell reception: varies by location. "Both AT&T and Verizon has service in this area," confirms a visitor to coastal camping areas, while inland parks generally provide stronger coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Child-specific policies: vary significantly between parks. "This campground is one of the best. Best friendly and helpful staff," says a visitor to Bodega Bay RV Park, which gets high marks from families. However, another camper notes: "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: educational for children. "Our group stayed here in early August. Thank goodness we brought the kids' bikes!! If you are willing to sacrifice the close proximity to neighbors, there are some killer views of the Pacific Ocean. We even saw whales!!"
Space considerations: limited at most parks. "Every now and then there's garbage scattered around and someone comes and picks it all up. The raccoon part is not a complaint, I thought it was funny!" notes a parent at Candlestick RV Park, highlighting how children might enjoy the wildlife encounters.
Scheduling advice: weekday visits offer better experience. "We spent a comfortable night here on our way through the Bay Area. Very convenient location," mentions a family traveling through the region, noting fewer crowds mid-week.
Tips from RVers
Slide-out space limitations: common issue at most parks. "Narrow sites. No room for awning. Close to gather," cautions an RV owner at Marin RV Park. Another notes "If we would both open our front doors at the same time, there would be a bit of an awkward situation."
Leveling conditions: mixed reviews on site preparation. "Sites are gravel, not level and close together," reports an RVer at Novato RV Park, while others note that some facilities provide level sites despite close spacing.
Hookup positioning: sometimes requires extensions. "Hookups are pretty far away and needed my sewer extension," advises one RV owner. Multiple campers recommend bringing extra-length hoses and cables.
Larger rig accommodation: available but tight at most parks. "This RV Park gets 5 stars purely for its location. Drive in, park and then walk to all the sights you want to see in San Francisco," explains a camper at Marin RV Park. Sites accommodating big rigs often require advance reservation and careful maneuvering.
