Kirill B.
Scout
ScoutMineral Springs Trailhead
Good spot, but I was waken up by a cop in a car at 2am asking me to leave.
Good spot, but I was waken up by a cop in a car at 2am asking me to leave.
Camping near Menlo Park, CA
151 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Campgrounds near Menlo Park in the San Francisco Bay Area span developed RV parks with full hookups to primitive tent sites, with several options located within a 30-mile radius. The region includes Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay in Fremont and Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground along the coast, both offering developed sites for tents and recreational vehicles. Trailer Villa RV Park in Redwood City provides the closest full-hookup option specifically for RVs, while Anthony Chabot Regional Park offers more natural surroundings with both drive-in and walk-in access. Most campgrounds in the area feature picnic tables, restrooms, and fire rings, with varying levels of hookup availability.
Reservations are highly recommended throughout the region, especially during summer months when Bay Area campgrounds often reach capacity. Many campsites require booking several months in advance, particularly for weekend stays. "The campground is so new that the laundry facility is not up and running yet. Bathrooms were spotless and backing into our site was a breeze," noted one visitor about Dumbarton Quarry. The climate remains mild year-round, though coastal areas experience fog during summer mornings, while inland locations can reach high temperatures. Most campgrounds near Menlo Park maintain paved or gravel parking areas suitable for standard vehicles, though some tent sites require short walks from parking areas. Cell reception is generally reliable throughout the area, unlike more remote camping destinations.
Several campgrounds provide access to hiking and biking trails, with Coyote Hills Regional Park and Anthony Chabot offering miles of recreational paths. Campers frequently mention the convenience of staying near urban amenities while still enjoying natural settings. A visitor to Dumbarton Quarry commented, "We appreciate how convenient it is for people who live in the Bay Area and if you want to visit the area from out of state, it would be a great place to park your camper and explore." Sites with electric hookups and shower facilities command premium rates compared to basic tent sites. For those seeking more solitude, Black Mountain Backpacking Camp requires a 1.5-mile hike to reach primitive sites but rewards with sunset views and fewer crowds than developed campgrounds closer to urban areas.
Best Campgrounds near Menlo Park (151)
1. Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay
"What they do have are scores of hookup sites for $60 / night and three tent / drive-in no hookup water-only sites for $45 / night."
"Since it's a new campground, the trees are young and don't supply much shade, but since it's close to the SF Bay, the bay breeze helps."
from $45 - $65 / night
Check Availability2. Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground
"We rarely make reservations to camp in California Beach Parks, as they are usually filled up weeks or even months in advance."
"Beautiful beach walking distance from campground. Bike or walking trails to wonderful beaches and places to eat. Short drive to many other areas. small but good size sites for where it is."
from $35 - $165 / night
Check Availability3. Anthony Chabot Regional Park
"as usual some spots are better than others but most close to restrooms and/or water. lots of poison oak and star thistle right off trail. great deterrent for kids to stay out of tick areas but id worry"
"Midweek in June the park, which is fairly large, is still nearly empty."
from $25 - $200 / night
Check Availability4. San Mateo Memorial Park
"It's a great place to use as a basecamp for exploring the myriad of hiking trails that exist in the redwoods and nearby coastal hikes. "
"Given all that and its proximity to SF, I’ll be aiming to get reservations here every summer, and some winter seasons too."
from $35 - $50 / night
Check Availability5. Lower Blooms Creek — Big Basin Redwoods State Park — CAMPGROUND CLOSED
"Not far from the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area in California. When you arrive it's like stepping in to a whole other world. Huge redwoods blanket the mountain and line every site."
"So sad the devastation of last month's fires on the oldest state park in California, home to thr biggest redwoods south of San Francisco."
from $35 / night
Check Availability6. Sanborn County Park
"This is a nice camping away from the car experience. It's a short walk up a paved path from the parking to the campsites."
"Great walk-in campground so close to home in the South Bay Area (albeit walk is slightly uphill)."
from $33 / night
Check Availability7. Trailer Villa RV Park
"Clean, has some views from far border of the hills but the spots are tight and there is not much to do but hook-up."
"After-hours check-in was a breeze, as the checkin instructions were taped to the main door of the office at the park entrance."
8. Ben Ries Campground — Butano State Park - CLOSED INDEFINITELY
"It is a smaller park than many of the other redwoods parks in Northern California, so it was very nice and peaceful. Butano is a bit off the beaten path to get to, but so worth it."
"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."
from $35 / night
Check Availability9. Castle Rock Trail Camp — Castle Rock State Park
"The parking lot for the trail head is just a bit further down Hwy 35. "
"There is a nearby shooting range and you can hear the gunshots during the daylight hours."
from $8 / night
Check Availability10. Coyote Hills Regional Park
"We walked through and enjoyed the nature areas so much. We continue to go back and spend time at Cayote Hills because it is so beautiful. We can't wait until thwe next time."
from $75 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 21 min from San Jose, CA
- 31 min from San Francisco, CA
- 41 min from Santa Cruz, CA
- 58 min from Vallejo, CA
Recent Camping Photos near Menlo Park, CA
255 Photos of 151 Menlo Park Campgrounds
Alana S.
Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay
Sky W.
SkyWanda Sanctuary
Lily H.
Black Mountain Backpacking Camp
Carl N.
San Mateo Memorial Park
Alicia F.
Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground
Juliana S.
Castle Rock Trail Camp — Castle Rock State Park
Kali C.
Sanborn County Park
Amanda P.
Anthony Chabot Regional Park
Kelly S.
Ben Ries Campground — Butano State Park - CLOSED INDEFINITELY
Armando M.
Lower Blooms Creek — Big Basin Redwoods State Park — CAMPGROUND CLOSED
Name
Sunrise Point at Candlestick Point SRA - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
John G.
Redwood Resort RV Park & Campground
Recent Reviews near Menlo Park, CA
878 Reviews of 151 Menlo Park Campgrounds
- Lauren S.
TravelerHalf Moon Bay State Beach Campground
Beachside getaway
We stayed at Francis Beach Campground, we snagged a spot the week of since they release a few throughout the week. I’m so glad they do that for locals!
Campground is well maintained, there was an individual picking through the trash though so we made sure to lock up some stuff.
Sites are easy to get in and out of, pretty spacious. The middle sites aren’t too great, but the ones bordering the beach and the bike trail are very nice. We loved our spot, we had a trail right behind our trailer onto the beach!
Dump station is $10. Fresh water smelled a bit off, but we filled up and just used it for washing up.
- TTom H.Traveler
Sunset State Beach Campground
Gorgeous views, great weather, great location
I love this place and have been coming here for 50 years. It is dry camping nestled between a strawberry farm and the ocean. Get rest among hills of dirt and sand, but the sites are paved. Sunset beach campground consist of three sections. The south is the best, followed by the north campground. The center section is basically an overflow campground with little pavement and lots of sand. There are many trees to create shade. It is a short walk down a staircase to the beach with lots of beach to explore and enjoy. Dogs are not allowed on the beach. Be aware that sometimes thefts occur from people walking through and taking advantage of opportunities. But in all the years, as long as you are aware, your equipment is safe. For simple, enjoyable camping Sunset beach is unsurpassed.
- TTom H.Traveler
Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday
Great place for kids, lots to do.
Koa’s in this area are typically expensive and this is no exception. But, for families it may be worth it. Playground, jumping, bouncing area, dog yard. Lots to do. It has good shower facilities, bathrooms are clean. For retirees and older folks, it may not be worth it. Not much room between sites and lots of kids for the nervous folks. My site (35) was electric and water only with a dry creek behind us. My only beef (and it was not only with the campground, but with irresponsible dog owners) was the piles of poop I had to pick up before I could safely walk around. Come on people! If you own a dog, please take care of them and pick up after them. Otherwise, the location was convenient, the place was clean (exception noted) and I will likely return.
Rosa M.ScoutCarnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area
Stayed 2 nigths, it was perfect
We stayed 2 nigths, 10$ per night. The staff was very kind. The place has showers and bathrooms clean enough for being it the middle of towns. Each space has a fire ring and a table. There's a little bit of noise in the morning and afternoon because of the cars that avoid the highway and pass nearby. It's first come first served. Overall, it's a very safe and good place to camp
- NNameTraveler
San Francisco RV Resort
Beautiful park
Beautiful part, you can see the ocean from your site. There’s a dog park close by if you want to go get down to the sandy beaches within walking distance great hookups water pressure is a little high. If you don’t have a meter I recommend getting one it was at 80 psi which an older rig was older seals. It could easily blow a seal.
- PPaula S.
GuidePinto Lake City Park
Urban Setting, Long Time Campers
This was a very urban park with the majority of obviously long term campers. Lots of geese and lots of bird droppings all over the park. Expensive for the value
Lee D.
LegendSanta Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday
Many options for families
General: So many options, including full hookup back-in or pull-thru sites, sites with just w/e, pet sites, nine different types of cabins, and tent sites. Some sites are paved and some are gravel.
Bath/Shower: The one closest to our site had a women's and men's restroom, and the showers are individual units but shared for both genders. I expected a more upscale shower (it was ok but a little tight, skimpy on hooks and no bench).
Activities/Amenities: So many amenities including a pool and hot tub, playground, jump pad, climbing “palms”, rec center with bike rentals and concessions, and a train (I’ve probably missed a few). Laundry is available on site (operated via an app and your phone).
Although this is not our preferred type of camping, after five nights in California State parks with limited amenities, we stayed here for hot showers, laundry, and full hookups for van maintenance. This was a typical KOA in many ways, but one thing that was different was that we had to wear wristbands, and there was a gate to enter and leave. While it should have made us feel safe, I wondered why there were extra security features.
Phillip S.ScoutBeach RV Pleasure Point
Very Convenient Spot
A very nice and well kept spot to park and enjoy Santa Cruz. You are close enough to walk to the beach and several restaurants. The sites are very close together. We were pleased on how clean and neat the area is kept. The temperatures were amazing for July.
Guide to Menlo Park
Camping near Menlo Park, California, offers a great mix of nature and adventure. With beautiful parks and campgrounds just a short drive away, you can enjoy the great outdoors without straying too far from home.
What to do:
- Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground. One visitor noted, “The local trails and creeks were breathtaking. Hiking through the forest felt like you were walking through a scene from Fern Gully.”
- Beach Access: Visit New Brighton State Beach Campground for a day at the beach. A camper shared, “Great views and easy access to the beach.”
- Wildlife Watching: At Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground, keep an eye out for local wildlife. One reviewer mentioned, “We were harassed by cute little chipmunks and birds that didn’t seem too intimidated by humans.”
What campers like:
- Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the beautiful surroundings. One visitor at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground said, “West Marin is BEAUTIFUL.”
- Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness of Mount Madonna County Park. A reviewer remarked, “Loved everything about this campground! It was quiet and peaceful.”
- Family-Friendly Activities: Families love the amenities at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA. One parent noted, “This place is busy and expensive, but great for kids with activities like petting zoos and jumping pillows.”
What you should know:
- First-Come, First-Serve: Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A visitor at California Veterans Memorial Park Campground advised, “Your best bet to get a site is to show up a day or two early.”
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may have limited facilities. A camper at New Brighton State Beach Campground mentioned, “Bathrooms were fine, no lines ever, but not very private.”
- Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. One camper at Anthony Chabot Regional Park shared, “We had two new types of visitors... a couple of wild turkeys came to pick up the dropped food on the ground.”
Tips for camping with families:
- Plan for Activities: Choose campgrounds with family-friendly features. A parent at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA said, “Great playground, jumping pillow, petting farm and mining fun.”
- Check Amenities: Make sure to check the amenities before booking. A reviewer at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground noted, “The bathrooms were about what you’d expect to see at a public facility, nothing fancy and clean enough to use.”
- Bring Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. One camper at California Veterans Memorial Park Campground mentioned, “Showers, restrooms, tables and fire rings make it really sweet for the family on a light camping adventure.”
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at New Brighton State Beach Campground said, “Spot 64 was humongous and extremely private.”
- Use Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump stations are. A camper at Mount Madonna County Park mentioned, “There is a very convenient FREE dump station just inside the entrance to the park.”
- Be Prepared for Crowds: Some campgrounds can get busy. A reviewer at Francis Beach Campground noted, “The campground was full so the bathrooms were not very clean.”
Whether you’re looking for the best camping near Menlo Park, CA, or just a quick getaway, these campgrounds offer something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Menlo Park, CA?
What camping is available near Menlo Park, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Menlo Park, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 151 campgrounds and RV parks near Menlo Park, CA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Menlo Park, CA?
Which is the most popular campground near Menlo Park, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Menlo Park, CA is Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay with a 4.7-star rating from 13 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Menlo Park, CA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Menlo Park, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Menlo Park, CA.
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