RV campgrounds near Mountain View, California range from oceanside facilities to inland parks with direct access to San Francisco. Located within Silicon Valley at about 105 feet above sea level, the area experiences mild Mediterranean climate with dry summers reaching 80°F and cool winters averaging 58°F. Camping options extend throughout the greater Bay Area, with access points along major highways including I-5, I-280, and Highway 101.
What to do
Waterfront activities: 10 minutes from SacWest RV Park & Campground: Located along a river, campers can enjoy water activities during seasonal flows. "We stayed at the back along the river which was ideal with grassy spots along the river and campfire spots to use," notes one visitor.
Wine tasting: 75 miles from Mountain View: Flag City RV Resort provides easy access to local wineries. "We wished we'd spent a few more days to explore the area, especially the wineries," shares one reviewer who enjoyed the convenience of this stopover location.
Ocean wildlife watching: 25 miles west of Mountain View: The Pacific coastline offers opportunities to spot marine life. At San Francisco RV Resort, one camper reported: "When it's clear you can see the farralon islands 30 miles offshore. Saw a couple whales too."
What campers like
Convenient transportation: 15 miles north of Mountain View: Marin RV Park provides easy access to public transit. "A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown San Francisco," mentions one reviewer who appreciated not having to drive into the city.
Clean facilities: Throughout Bay Area parks: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. At Flag City RV Resort, one camper noted: "Squeaky clean and organized. Nice pool and hot tub, nice laundry facilities (more than one!), moderately sized paved and level sites."
Pet amenities: Important for traveling animal companions: Flag City RV Resort offers designated pet areas. "HUGE fenced area to walk your dog OFF LEASH," highlights one reviewer, emphasizing the convenience for pet owners.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Many RV parks in the region feature compact layouts. At San Francisco RV Resort, one camper observed: "The 'campsites' are close together… it's more like a parking lot than a campground, but everyone is friendly and the overall vibe is good."
Road conditions: Access challenges: Some locations have difficult approach roads. At Rio Viento RV Park, a reviewer warned: "The road to get into the park is rough but take your time, it's worth the drive."
Price considerations: Higher than national averages: RV campgrounds around Mountain View typically charge premium rates. "The price we paid was quite expensive for the overall experience," noted one camper at Marin RV Park regarding the cost-value relationship in this market.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Water features: SacWest RV Park & Campground offers attractions for children. "Lots of things to do for kids: great playgrounds, swimming pool, more than 100 ducks going around!" mentions one family who enjoyed the atmosphere.
Entertainment options: Limited at some parks: Not all facilities cater to children. At San Francisco RV Resort, one visitor noted: "There are a few picnic tables around, but nothing in terms of entertainment for kids. Thank goodness we brought the kids' bikes!!"
Wildlife encounters: Educational opportunities: Several parks feature natural elements. "We lived here full time and love it! It can get really windy though," shares a resident of Duck Island RV Park, where the Sacramento River provides wildlife viewing.
Tips from RVers
Hookup logistics: Check connections before setup: At Rio Viento RV Park, one RVer advised: "Very nice large sites with large grass areas pet friendly, amazing helpful and friendly staff. My only complaint is no Wi-Fi."
Site selection: Location within parks matters: Tradewinds RV Park offers varying site qualities. "Full hookup but sites are very tight and it's noisy being right against the freeway," warns one RVer about placement considerations.
Accessibility considerations: Level sites with amenities: Most parks accommodate various RV sizes, but preparation helps. "The sites are pull-through with electric, water, a picnic table and fire ring," describes a reviewer about site features common to regional parks.