Tent camping near Menlo Park offers access to varied microclimates across the Santa Cruz Mountains, with coastal areas typically 10-15°F cooler than inland sites. The region's elevation ranges from near sea level to over 2,800 feet at the highest ridgelines, creating distinct camping experiences within a 25-mile radius. Many trails connect these campgrounds, allowing hikers to trek between sites without returning to trailheads.
What to do
Creek exploration: 1.5-mile hike to Little Yosemite area in Sunol Regional Wilderness features distinctive rock formations and seasonal water flow. "The hike starts along a creek/river which is referred to as Little Yosemite. Fun creek area with lots of water/rock formations. Then climb and climb the hill," notes one Sunol visitor.
Ocean viewing from ridgeline trails: 2-3 hour hike from Ben Ries Campground provides panoramic Pacific views. "If you hike up to the ridge on a clear day you can see the ocean. There is also an old landing strip on the hill you can hike to as well. Great hike along the ridge where you can backpack into a trail camp," explains a camper at Ben Ries Campground.
Stargazing away from light pollution: Best at sites furthest from urban centers. "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," recommends a Ben Ries Campground reviewer.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good spacing for solitude. "The sites are spaced apart nicely... Fellow campers were there to camp, not to party, so that's always a plus," notes a camper about Ben Ries Campground.
Multiple difficulty levels for trails: The area offers hiking options for all abilities. "The park itself has great hikes, thick with Redwoods, immediately you feel like you are in Ewok territory. Lots of varying levels as well," shares a visitor at Ben Ries Campground.
Proximity to coastal attractions: Easy access to beaches and coastal towns from many sites. "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," writes a camper at Half Moon Bay RV Park, which also accommodates tent campers.
What you should know
Water availability varies significantly: Many sites require bringing your own water. "The sites are primitive and the water source questionable and unreliable. I hiked in all the water I needed," advises a visitor about Sunol Regional Wilderness.
Fire restrictions change seasonally: Check current rules before arrival. "Fires are increasingly banned in the dry months (i.e most of the year) in California now, but in January, when I was there they were allowed," reports a camper at Castle Rock Trail Camp.
Noise factors beyond your control: Some areas have unexpected sound impacts. "There is a nearby shooting range and you can hear the gunshots during the daylight hours," notes a visitor to Castle Rock Trail Camp.
Cell service limitations: Most sites have poor or no connectivity. "There is no cell service," states a Ben Ries Campground camper, making offline maps essential for navigation.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with shorter hike-in distances: Some campgrounds are more accessible than others. "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," recommends a visitor to Black Mountain Backpacking Camp.
Pack for variable temperatures: Evening temperatures can drop 20-30°F from daytime highs. "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, night time was a lovely 55-59 degrees, easy to sleep, not too cold," advises a Ben Ries Campground visitor.
Select sites with appropriate facilities: Some areas offer better amenities for families. "The pit toilet and bear boxes on site take a lot of the stress out for beginner backpackers," notes a camper about Black Mountain Backpacking Camp.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options near Menlo Park: Few full-hookup sites available within 30 miles. "Lisa was helpful when making this reservation a few months ago. 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," shares a visitor to Portola Redwoods State Park Campground about the reservation process.
Check site dimensions carefully: Many local sites have tight clearances. "Our site was a little tight, that would be the only thing I wish was better. Most of the other available sites are much larger with picnic tables and grills," explains a camper at Half Moon Bay RV Park.
Adapt to variable weather conditions: Coastal fog and inland heat require preparation. "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," recommends a Half Moon Bay RV Park visitor.
