RV campgrounds near Loma Mar, California sit within a forested region between the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Pacific coast. This area features elevations ranging from sea level to over 2,000 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-60°F while summer brings 60-85°F days with coastal fog often rolling through morning and evening hours. Cell service varies dramatically between coastal and mountain locations.
What to Do
Redwood hiking trails: Access Henry Cowell State Park directly from Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort. "There's 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," notes one camper who found the location excellent for family activities.
Steam train excursions: Located near several RV parks in Felton, the historic Roaring Camp Railroad offers narrated tours through redwood forests. "We could hear the train whistle in the daytime coming from Roaring Camp Railroad. This location isn't too far from Santa Cruz and Felton if you want to go into town and do activities," shares a visitor who enjoyed the convenient access.
Coastal trail exploration: The Half Moon Bay area provides extensive oceanfront walking paths accessible from campgrounds. One camper at San Francisco RV Resort reported, "Nice bike trail right on the water" and another mentioned, "When it's clear you can see the farralon islands 30 miles offshore."
What Campers Like
Oceanfront locations: Campers appreciate sites with direct ocean access despite some drawbacks. "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," shared one visitor who spotted whales from their campsite.
Swimming pools: Several campgrounds maintain heated pools for year-round swimming. A camper at Cotillion Gardens RV Park mentioned their facility has "a pool, hiking trails, a little river. So beautiful and peaceful here."
Recreation facilities: Many parks offer additional amenities beyond basic camping. At Thousand Trails Morgan Hill, campers enjoy "pool, basketball, volleyball, horse shoes, playground, billiards, karaoke, tennis" according to one reviewer who appreciated the friendly culture and daily kids activities even in mid-October.
What You Should Know
Site spacing concerns: Many RV parks in the region feature tight arrangements between vehicles. A visitor to Pillar Point RV Park noted, "When the park is full the spaces can get pretty tight." Similar comments appear across multiple facilities, suggesting this is a regional pattern rather than isolated to specific parks.
Seasonal pricing fluctuations: Rates vary significantly by season and location, with coastal sites commanding premium prices. Winter rates typically run 20-40% lower than peak summer months. One camper commented on Half Moon Bay accommodations: "For $136/night, I'd expect internet to be included."
Traffic noise levels: Campgrounds near Highway 1 and other main roads experience constant traffic sounds. A reviewer mentioned, "Sleeping near a highway is a little loud at night" while staying at an oceanfront park, though they still enjoyed exploring nearby beach trails.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several parks feature dedicated play areas for children. "I gave it 4 stars because the price is so high. There are just four tent sites here. We were in T2 which was just over a small footbridge over a creek from our parking spot," noted a parent camping at Smithwoods RV Park who added their children enjoyed using the clubhouse while adults set up camp.
Heated pools: Off-season swimming remains possible at parks with heated facilities. "The pool is huge and very very well kept," reported one family who visited during cooler months and still enjoyed water activities.
Kid-friendly hiking routes: Look for campgrounds with gentle trails accessible for all ages. "Family friendly, beautiful location... Kids could ride bikes freely, heated pool (90 degrees), clean shower and restroom, plus laundry room," shared a visitor traveling with five children who appreciated the mostly flat terrain.
Tips from RVers
Power considerations: Many campgrounds offer 30-amp service with limited 50-amp availability. Bring adapters if your rig requires specific power configurations. "Full hookups with 30 amp. (used my 50 amp adapter), no issues," reported one RVer about their stay.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require significant effort to level RVs. One camper mentioned, "The sites are not level" at a local campground, recommending bringing extra leveling blocks even for sites advertised as level.
Hookup extensions: Several parks have utilities positioned in unusual locations. "Hookups are pretty far away and needed my sewer extension," advised one RVer, suggesting bringing additional hose and cable lengths to accommodate variable hookup placements throughout the region.
