Tent camping near Half Moon Bay offers experiences ranging from redwood forest environments to coastal views. The area sits along the San Mateo coastline where marine fog frequently moderates temperatures, creating consistent 55-60°F nights even during summer months. Walk-in campsites typically require campers to carry equipment short distances from designated parking areas, with most locations enforcing strict crumb-free policies to minimize wildlife encounters.
What to do
Hike the ridge trails: Black Mountain Backpacking Camp provides a relatively easy 1.5-mile hike to tent sites with panoramic views. "The hike in is only 1.5 miles, but there's plenty of trail options to tack on more mileage on either the hike in or out," notes one Black Mountain Backpacking Camp visitor.
Explore coastal beaches: The campgrounds near Half Moon Bay provide access to secluded beaches along Highway 1. "The campground is very close to PCH/Highway 1 and the beaches are lovely. PCH is also dotted with farms and fruit stands, artisan pies, etc," shares a camper at Ben Ries Campground.
Visit Pescadero: This small coastal town near many Half Moon Bay camping areas offers local provisions and dining options. "The closest town is Pescadero, and has a tiny main street with an excellent coffee shop, and grocery store with fresh baked pies, breads, jams, sauces, and a deli counter as well as sundry items," mentions a Ben Ries camper.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent camping options near Half Moon Bay provide good separation between campsites. At Castle Rock Trail Camp, "The sites were spaced nicely to allow for privacy. Frog Flat seemed a bit more secluded than the main camp," notes one reviewer.
Night sky viewing: Coastal fog conditions create opportunities for unique stargazing experiences in the mountains above Half Moon Bay. "Hard to find stars as you are canopied in trees but if you walk a little out, the night sky is dark and stars a plenty," shares a camper from Ben Ries Campground.
Diverse hiking options: The area offers hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. "Large, user-friendly campsites surrounded by redwood trees. Great ferny hiking trails for every level of camper/hiker. Very easy access to campsites and near Pescadero and Highway One," writes a visitor at Steep Ravine Campground.
What you should know
Limited availability: Most tent sites near Half Moon Bay require advance planning, especially during peak seasons. "Extremely hard to get a reservation. Can get very windy! Georgeous spot to pitch your tent on the ocean cliffs," warns a visitor about Steep Ravine Campground.
Weather variability: The coastal location means conditions can change quickly. "Great weather, lots of shade at the campsite and on the hikes. Coast was a cool 60's-70's but warm in the sun (the coast/beaches are windy), night time was a lovely 55-59 degrees," explains a reviewer at Ben Ries Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Small animals frequently visit campsites. "But aggressive squirrels. But one of my favorite spots in CA," mentions a camper at Ben Ries Campground, highlighting the importance of proper food storage.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: For families new to camping, several locations provide accessible experiences. "Super user-friendly campsites that are good for beginners. Lots of great hiking trails in redwoods for all levels," notes a visitor to Bicentennial Campground.
Consider day-use alternatives: Some families prefer visiting campgrounds during the day before committing to overnight stays. "Did a 12 hour hike around the entire park. It was long but gorgeous!" shares a day visitor to Ben Ries Campground.
Select sites strategically: Research specific site numbers when making reservations for the best family experience. "If I were to come back and want two large sites to connect, I would choose either 6 and 8 or 10 and 13. If it's just two people, site 3 is pretty private as well as 14," advises a Ben Ries Campground reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping areas near Half Moon Bay focus on tent camping with limited RV facilities. Half Moon Bay RV Park offers one of the few dedicated RV camping options, with a reviewer noting, "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."
Access challenges: Many RV sites require careful navigation of narrow, winding roads. "It went the same way for check in. Prior to check in while enroute we appreciated her call assigning our site and the best way to enter it," mentions an RV camper about staff assistance at Half Moon Bay RV Park.
Proximity to coastal trails: RV parks provide convenient access to coastal recreation. "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. Great ocean views," notes a Half Moon Bay RV Park visitor.
