RV camping near Newark, California offers access to both urban amenities and natural attractions. Most parks in the region sit within 20-40 miles of Newark, with locations ranging from coastal bluffs to redwood forests. Winter temperatures average 40-60°F, while summer brings consistent 65-80°F days that attract campers year-round.
What to do
Coastal trails access: At Pillar Point RV Park in Half Moon Bay, visitors can enjoy convenient beach activities. "Walking distance to shops and restaurants, walking and bike trails, beach access, and friendly staff!" Multiple trails connect directly from the campground to coastal paths suitable for different activity levels.
Redwood forests: The redwood groves near Santa Cruz provide short day hikes with minimal elevation gain. "We took a few hikes in the area that were very nice. Gas, propane and food are all located down the street," notes a camper at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort. The campground offers easy access to Henry Cowell State Park with several miles of trails.
Train experience: Take a historic steam train ride near Felton. "It was a short nice hike to the state park and the train through the red woods. Fun experience on a real steam locomotive," writes one visitor who stayed at Smithwoods RV Park. The Roaring Camp Railroad operates daily during summer months and weekends year-round.
What campers like
Ocean proximity: Waterfront views are highly valued by campers visiting coastal sites. "When it's clear you can see the farralon islands 30 miles offshore. On the downside 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," comments a guest at San Francisco RV Resort.
Redwood setting: The tall trees provide natural shade and cooler temperatures during summer. "Camp host went above and beyond! Happily told us things to do with our kids and how close places were. Santa Cruz is only 10 miles away. The campground is all natural! Trees and nature all around," shares a family who visited Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Family facilities: Several parks offer amenities specifically for children. "Clean, quiet campground nestled in the big trees. Friendly staff and a quick drive into the Santa Cruz beach communities," writes a visitor to Cotillion Gardens RV Park. Many parents appreciate the recreational options when weather conditions change.
What you should know
Tight spacing: Most RV sites throughout the region have limited space between units. "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," notes a camper at San Francisco RV Resort, reflecting the common space limitations.
Price expectations: Costs typically range from $75-140 per night depending on location and season. "Not a bad place to stay. It's just very crowded with zero privacy. All big Rv, there's a pool hall and a river. It's super close to a few bars and about a mile away from the Henry Cowell entrance," explains a camper regarding seasonal pricing patterns.
Reservation requirements: Advance booking is essential, particularly for sites with special features. "We did a same day drop-in reservation for an overnight stay over the phone. After-hours check-in was a breeze, as the checkin instructions were taped to the main door of the office at the park entrance," shares a visitor at Trailer Villa RV Park, highlighting their efficient system.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Several campgrounds maintain heated pools for family use. "Kids could ride bikes freely, heated pool (90 degrees), clean shower and restroom, plus laundry room. Staff is very friendly and Sant Cruz beaches are 15min away," notes a parent who stayed at Smithwoods RV Park with five children.
River access: Some parks offer water features beyond swimming pools. "Viewing areas that allow all to enjoy the stream, at the back of the resort, and paths to take a closer look. A safe and quiet location. I felt safe, with my young kids, that everyone was driving slowly and respecting the rules," reports a family visiting with young children.
Recreation options: Look for parks with multiple activities on-site. "It's a nice laid back area. People are friendly, weathers great, lots of activities for everyone. Nice trails to hike and towns not far away if you need anything," writes a visitor to Cotillion Gardens RV Park, which maintains playground equipment and common areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations based on your specific RV configuration. "Getting there takes some attention. Do not take highway 9 from Santa Cruz as the RV park will tell you. Our car navigation changed our route even after we were approaching 17 north. Keep your eyes out for the highway signs," advises an RVer at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Extended hookups: Some sites require additional equipment for full connections. "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose. Shore chord was fine as was the water spigot," notes a camper regarding layout variations that affect hookup accessibility at Half Moon Bay RV Park.
Navigation challenges: Urban RV parks often have specific entry requirements. "The site was a pull through as well as our friends who were able to face the opposite way to have a common camp side with us. Of course the utility sides were in great position for that. Full hook ups with 30 amp (used my 50 amp adapter), no issues," explains an experienced RVer about managing space constraints.
