Half Moon Bay camping areas span across coastal bluffs at elevations ranging from sea level to 200 feet, with coastal forests extending further inland. The region experiences steady 50-60°F temperatures year-round with frequent morning fog, often clearing by afternoon. Wind conditions can change rapidly, particularly at exposed oceanfront sites where gusts frequently exceed 20mph.
What to do
Beach exploration: 5 miles of accessible coastline within walking distance of Francis Beach Campground. "Loved camping here! So peaceful, easily accessible from San Francisco," shares Amrita R. The campground offers both RV and tent sites directly adjacent to the beach with easy access to coastal trails.
Horseback riding: Available near Samuel P. Taylor State Park during all seasons. One reviewer noted, "This campground has a beach that dogs are allowed to walk on and beautiful places to hike. There is horse back riding available and coin operated hot showers," according to Debbie R. Coastal trail rides range from 1-3 hours depending on experience level.
Redwood forest hiking: Multiple trail networks connect campgrounds to ancient groves. At Big Basin Redwoods State Park, a camper explains, "More han 140 campsites available with flish toilets, water, and large campsites for groups. Rangers drove by each night to keep the larger parties quiet past 10pm." The park features trails suitable for all ability levels with distances from 0.5 to 10+ miles.
What campers like
Ocean proximity: Sites within hearing distance of waves rank highest in reviews. At Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground, "The atmosphere here is wonderful. It's quiet and right on the beach. Some RV spaces with hookups back right up to the sand/vegetation," states Michell C. Sites on the western edge of the campground provide the most direct ocean access.
Varied glamping accommodation types: From cabins to yurts with different comfort levels. Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA campers appreciate the versatility: "Very nice stay for a long weekend. The pull through spaces are extremely tight to the point that our slide out was hitting vegetation and our neighbors awning was about two feet from our Rv. But, if you expect that, it's a great place to stay," according to Andrea A.
Redwood setting: Natural shade and cooler temperatures throughout summer months. At Sanborn County Park, "This is a nice camping away from the car experience. It's a short walk up a paved path from the parking to the campsites. The park provides carts to help with hauling gear, and storage boxes are provided at the site, near the picnic table," notes Amanda P.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Book 3-6 months in advance for weekend stays. Steep Ravine Campground on Mount Tamalpais is notoriously difficult to secure: "How is it possible that I am the first to review this place, the number one most difficult to reserve spot in all of California (and therefore presumably all of America)?!" writes Adam. Reservations open precisely six months in advance at 8:00 AM.
Varying water and shower facilities: Many glamping sites in Half Moon Bay lack full facilities. "The bathrooms were dirty/sandy (although you are right on the beach), probably because not only are they being overused by day trippers to the beach and the many campers. Although, they do have coin-operated hot showers available (2 minutes per quarter)," notes Elliott B. about Francis Beach.
Wind exposure: Coastal sites experience strong gusts year-round but especially March through August. One camper at Bicentennial Campground warns, "Had to walk all the way down to get to the camp site with all the gear, it was to windy to put up our tent." Bring extra stakes and guylines for tents.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: On-site programs available at several locations. A Costanoa KOA visitor shared, "We arrived on Sunday and left on Tuesday, so we didn't get to experience the weekend activities. We will be back for that! Grandkids wanted to ride the bikes before we left, kiosk wasn't open yet, but the gentleman at the camp kiosk helped us. They are harder than they look."
Site selection for privacy: Upper loops offer more space between neighbors at most campgrounds. "Most of the sites are pretty decent, but 44 was the best," advises a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park. Families particularly appreciate the creek access: "This campground has great bathroom facilities and has a creek that runs through it that the kids loved playing in all day."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk offer best sightings of local fauna. A Steep Ravine Campground visitor reported, "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." Morning hikes provide optimal viewing times for birds and small mammals.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most campgrounds restrict length to under 35 feet. Francis Beach Campground offers some of the most spacious options: "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," notes Carina B.
Utility hookups: Limited availability throughout the region. Pelican Point RV Park provides full hookups but at premium rates: "The best thing about this place was how clean the bathrooms were. A lovely change! We arrived late with no booking and received a really warm welcome and they had space for us! The facilities were kept clean and the location is unbelievable. It is expensive at $75 / night no hook up," reports Sam B.
Leveling requirements: Coastal sites often have grade issues requiring blocks or levelers. At Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA, "We're hoping to get a spot with less of a hill to climb but on the top it's a nice flat terrain." Consider requesting specific sites when making reservations if traveling with longer rigs.
