RV camping near Fremont provides access to coastal views and redwood groves within a 30-mile radius. San Lorenzo River runs adjacent to several campgrounds in the Santa Cruz Mountains area, offering summer water activities during warmer months. Winter temperatures in the region typically range from 40-65°F with occasional coastal storms affecting campsites nearest to the ocean.
What to do
Coastal trail exploration: At Pillar Point RV Park, visitors can access walking and biking paths directly from the campground. "Walking distance to shops and restaurants, walking and bike trails, beach access, and friendly staff," reports one camper. The oceanfront location provides convenient access to Half Moon Bay's coastal recreation.
Redwood hiking: Campers at Cotillion Gardens RV Park can access hiking trails directly from their sites. "Lots of hiking and exploring right from the campsite," notes a visitor with young children. The park connects to surrounding forest trails where wildlife observation opportunities are common during morning hours.
Train excursions: The historic steam locomotive at Roaring Camp Railroads operates near Felton campgrounds. "It was a short nice hike to the state park and the train through the red woods. Fun experience on a real steam locomotive," reports a visitor at Smithwoods RV Park. The train ride typically costs $31-41 for adults and operates daily during summer months.
What campers like
Riverside spots: Smithwoods RV Park offers sites with views of the San Lorenzo River. "We were in site J, on the point. It was nice and big. Full hook ups. We had a great view of the San Lorenzo River and Henry Cowell State Park," shared one reviewer. Several sites back up to the river with a small fence separating the camping area from the drop-off.
Heated amenities: Some parks maintain comfortable water temperatures year-round. "Kids could ride bikes freely, heated pool (90 degrees), clean shower and restroom, plus laundry room," noted a family staying at Smithwoods RV Park during October. The heated facilities make shoulder season camping more comfortable for families with children.
Urban accessibility: San Francisco RV Resort provides oceanfront camping with city conveniences nearby. "This is an interesting rv park on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It has a ca beach town feel, but is just 20 minutes from San Francisco. Walgreens, Safeway, and a couple coffee shops, local bakery and restaurants all walking distance," reports a visitor. The proximity to urban amenities allows for supply restocking without long drives.
What you should know
Site leveling: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain requiring adjustments. "Prior to check in while enroute we appreciated her call assigning our site and the best way to enter it," shared a visitor at Half Moon Bay RV Park. Planning for leveling blocks is recommended for most sites in the region.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service and internet access vary significantly across campgrounds. "No cell service but good WiFi if your close to the office," notes a camper at Cotillion Gardens. Another visitor adds, "The only reason to not give that last star is the WiFi coverage. While it can be a huge bonus to 'unplug' COVID has made internet connections much more important."
Security considerations: Most established RV campgrounds near Fremont maintain on-site staff or patrols. "Security drives around. Bathrooms and wifi were okay though," reports a visitor to Treasure Island RV Park, though they noted other aspects of their stay were less satisfactory. Gated access is uncommon at most facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort provides several amenities for children. "The camp host went above and beyond! Happily told us things to do with our kids and how close places were. Santa Cruz is only 10 miles away. The campground is all natural! Trees and nature all around," shares a parent who visited with young children. The resort maintains viewing areas along the stream for wildlife observation.
Safe biking areas: Several campgrounds offer protected areas for children to ride bikes. "I felt safe, with my young kids, that everyone was driving slowly and respecting the rules," notes a parent at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort. Most campgrounds enforce 5 mph speed limits on interior roads.
Group camping options: Family reunions or multi-family trips work well at certain facilities. "This is our favorite place to camp, Redwoods everywhere, 9 miles from Santa Cruz, kids love this place we have camped in the group area with 8 trailers and other spots on site," mentions a repeat visitor to Smithwoods RV Park. Advance booking is essential for group sites, especially during summer.
Tips from RVers
Sewer hose extensions: RV campers often need additional equipment for some sites. "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose. Shore chord was fine as was the water spigot," notes a visitor at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort. Packing extension cords and extra hose length helps accommodate variable hookup placements.
Shared space configurations: Some parks allow creative site arrangements. "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," shares a camper at Half Moon Bay RV Park. This setup creates a shared outdoor living space between two RVs.
Off-season benefits: Winter camping offers more seclusion at popular parks. "We stayed hear a couple years ago. I recommends rating here in the off season because you will basically have the place to yourself which makes it pleasant," suggests a visitor about Santa Cruz Redwoods. Shoulder season visits typically offer reduced rates and improved site availability.
