RV camping options near Half Moon Bay offer Pacific Coast access with varying levels of amenities and proximity to attractions. The area experiences mild coastal temperatures year-round, with summer fog often clearing by midday. Most campgrounds operate on asphalt or concrete pads with limited shade due to the coastal environment.
What to do
Beach exploration: Walk directly from Pillar Point RV Park to nearby shorelines. The location puts you steps from coastal activities without needing to drive. "Great spot right off the highway and on the beach. Surfing, walking/bike trails, kayaking... Pet friendly," notes one camper.
Coastal trail access: Connect to the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail system. This paved pathway runs for miles along the coastline. "From the park you can head about a quarter of a mile and walk or ride the coastal path all the way to the marina or south to the Ritz Carlton," according to a visitor at Half Moon Bay RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for marine mammals from oceanfront spots. Whales can sometimes be spotted from shoreline locations. "Saw a couple whales too. When it's clear you can see the farralon islands 30 miles offshore," reports a camper at San Francisco RV Resort.
What campers like
Proximity to restaurants: Walking distance dining options near harbor areas. Several eateries can be reached without driving from some campgrounds. "Cameron's Pub is a fun place to eat and is located right next door. Just a couple of minutes to downtown Half Moon Bay," notes a reviewer at Half Moon Bay RV Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and common areas. Cleanliness standards vary by location but many parks maintain good conditions. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, "Restrooms had 3 stalls and 4 free showers available. Cleaned and stocked daily."
Level sites: Properly graded camping spots with solid hookups. RVers appreciate well-designed infrastructure. "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," reports a camper at Half Moon Bay RV Park.
What you should know
Site spacing: Many parks feature tight quarters between RVs. Compact layouts are common at coastal locations. At San Francisco RV Resort, "Our group stayed here in early August of 2017. This RV resort gets packed!! RVs were super close together so it's a roll of the dice on what kind of neighbors you're gonna get!!"
Price considerations: Expect higher rates than inland locations. Coastal premium pricing is standard in this region. "Costs a lot but great for a basecamp to explore SF. People were nice amenities are basic, it's a parkinglot."
Reservation requirements: Book well ahead, especially for summer weekends. Advanced planning is essential during peak periods. "We had an absolutely amazing time during our week-long stay at the RV Park. The place was impeccably clean and secure."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Seek out parks with play areas. Some locations offer recreation options. "We spent 2 nights here with our 2&3 year olds. Sites are a little tight but worth being nestled in the redwoods. Lots of hiking and exploring right from the campsite. Kids liked the pool and clubhouse," notes a visitor at Cotillion Gardens RV Park.
Bike-friendly locations: Bring children's bicycles. Several parks have space for riding. "This RV park is clean, in a nice area and close to San Jose and San Francisco. We really enjoyed our stay. I really liked how our site was level and easy to get to."
Alternative lodging options: Consider cabin rentals. Some parks offer structures beyond traditional camping. "Fun place, relaxed atmosphere. It's a nice laid back area. People are friendly, weathers great, lots of activities for everyone."
Tips from RVers
Extension hose needs: Prepare for distant hookups. Some parks have utilities positioned away from parking pads. "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 Ranch Campground.
Size restrictions: Confirm your rig will fit before booking. Many coastal parks have limited space for larger vehicles. "The spots are tight. Staff is great! Laundry hot tub pool are always clean. Right on the ocean (on a cliff)!"
Road conditions: Follow campground directions carefully. Some locations have challenging access routes. "Getting there takes some attention. Do not take highway 9 from Santa Cruz as the RV park will tell you. Our car navigation changed our route even after we were approaching 17 north."
