Best Campgrounds near Los Altos Hills, CA
The Santa Cruz Mountains west of Los Altos Hills, California feature a diverse range of camping environments within a 30-45 minute drive. State parks and county lands provide options from coastal bluffs to redwood forests, with notable sites including Castle Rock Trail Camp, Sanborn County Park, and San Mateo Memorial Park. Most campgrounds in this region offer tent camping with basic amenities, while RV-friendly options with hookups can be found at Half Moon Bay State Beach and Dumbarton Quarry Campground. The proximity to both redwood forests and Pacific beaches creates a unique camping landscape where visitors can experience dramatically different ecosystems within short driving distances.
Reservations are essential for most established campgrounds, particularly during summer months when sites fill months in advance. As one camper noted, "California Beach Parks are usually filled up weeks or even months in advance." Coastal campgrounds experience cool, foggy conditions even in summer, while inland sites can reach high temperatures. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with complete bans common during dry months. Many walk-in sites require short hikes from parking areas, with some parks providing carts for gear transport. Cell service is limited or non-existent at most forest campgrounds, though coastal and bay-facing sites typically maintain coverage.
Redwood forest camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with many highlighting the shade and moderate temperatures. "Every site is surrounded by giant redwood trees, and it is an absolutely gorgeous campground," noted one camper about Butano State Park. Site spacing varies considerably between parks, with some offering privacy while others place campers in close proximity. Coastal campgrounds provide easy beach access but often experience nighttime fog and cooler temperatures. Wildlife sightings are common, particularly deer and turkeys in early mornings. Ticks and poison oak are prevalent in many areas, requiring appropriate precautions, especially with children and pets.
