RV camping near La Honda, California offers diverse options from coastal sites to forested retreats in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The region sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation in redwood forests with moderate temperatures year-round. Cell reception varies dramatically between mountain and coastal locations, with high-elevation sites frequently experiencing service limitations.
What to do
Coastal trail access: San Francisco RV Resort in Pacifica provides direct access to waterfront paths. "Nice bike trail right on the water," notes Mike M., who appreciated the convenience despite the "area is a bit industrial but quick access to San Fran and the other sites around town."
Redwood hiking: Explore trails directly from Cotillion Gardens RV Park in Felton. "There are great hiking trails assessable from the campground," explains Linda S., who found this made up for the sites being close together. The park's location puts you within walking distance of larger state park systems.
Steam train adventures: Take a historic rail journey through the forest near Smithwoods RV Park. "We could hear the train whistle in the daytime coming from Roaring Camp Railroad," describes Christina R., adding that "the drive is beautiful on the way in and out through the trees" to nearby towns.
What campers like
Ocean views: Coastal locations allow for wildlife watching from your campsite. At Pillar Point RV Park, campers report excellent shore access. "Walking distance to shops and restaurants, walking and bike trails, beach access, and friendly staff," writes Raven P., though she cautions about road noise when the park is full.
Swimming options: Many mountain RV parks maintain heated pools for family recreation. "Kids could ride bikes freely, heated pool (90 degrees), clean shower and restroom, plus laundry room," Jessica D. says about her family's stay at Smithwoods RV Park, noting the campground is "mostly flat and surrounded with Redwoods."
Recreation facilities: Morgan Hill RV Resort provides extensive outdoor activities. Derek & Kristen A. describe "Great culture here - friendly, lots of things to do (pool, basketball, volleyball, horse shoes, playground, billiards, karaoke, tennis)." They noted the campground runs kids' activities daily even in October.
What you should know
Reservation timelines: Summer months require advance planning, particularly for coastal locations. At Half Moon Bay RV Park, campers recommend booking months ahead. "Lisa was helpful when making this reservation a few months ago," reports Patrick J., who appreciated the staff calling while he was en route to give specific directions for his assigned site.
Site spacing variations: Mountain RV parks often feature tighter spaces than pictured online. "Sites can get a bit tight, but there are definitely some gems hidden in the redwoods," says Tim & Cleo D. about Cotillion Gardens RV Park, suggesting weekday stays for better site selection.
Wi-Fi limitations: Mountain locations have limited connectivity even with park Wi-Fi. David H. noted at Smithwoods RV Park: "Be ready for no cell or WiFi. We occasionally got 1 bar of cell service in our site if we stood in a certain spot. (AT&T) There was WiFi up at the office but it was inconsistent."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Choose parks with dedicated recreation areas for children. "The kids loved the resident cats. The pool was huge and well loved. Lots of recreation," Jennifer H. writes about Morgan Hill RV Resort, appreciating the organized activities.
River access options: Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort offers paths to water play areas. "There is a little trail that goes down to the River where you can find a neat little beach. It's a goofy little descent/climb to get there and out but worth it," explains Jaime C., who found the clean facilities made up for limited extra amenities.
Seasonal considerations: Mountain parks maintain different activity schedules throughout the year. "In mid October the campground is still running kids activities daily and they're good!" reports Derek & Kristen A. about Morgan Hill RV Resort, where they appreciated making day trips to Monterey and Carmel.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Request outer loop sites for more privacy at mountain parks. "The sites are well marked. They are a bit narrow, so much of the camp side you will have a close look at your neighbors utilities," notes Patrick J. about Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, recommending weekday stays when "not as busy and more room is likely."
Hookup extensions: Pack additional sewer hose length for mountain campgrounds. "Bring your sewer hose extension. Most other sites had them from what I could see," advises Patrick J., who also noted satellite internet limitations with "Starlink was heavily obstructed by trees so worked at 40% speed."
Navigation challenges: Plan your route carefully through mountain roads. "Entrance is a little nerve racking on your first visit, but once your at your site you can relax," Ben T. explains about Cotillion Gardens RV Park, adding "no cell service but good WiFi if your close to the office."
