Camping options near Pacifica, California range from coastal bluffs to wooded inland sites within a 30-minute drive. Pacifica sits at sea level while nearby camping areas reach elevations of 600-1,200 feet in the coastal hills. Fog often rolls in during summer evenings, creating temperature drops of 15-20 degrees between daytime and nighttime at coastal campsites.
What to do
Beach exploration and tide pools: Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground offers direct beach access for tide pooling. "The atmosphere here is wonderful. It's quiet and right on the beach. Some RV spaces with hookups back right up to the sand/vegetation," shares Michell C.
Waterfront hiking and biking: Coastal trails extend for miles along the shoreline. "Bike or walking trails to wonderful beaches and places to eat. Short drive to many other areas," notes Carina B. about the beach path system.
Urban adventures and city exploration: Candlestick RV Park provides a base for San Francisco trips. "Lyft/Uber 25 minutes to Fishers Wharf ~$25-30. Or Muni which takes about double the time including walk to the station," according to Kirsten, who used it as a city base.
Island camping: For a unique experience, take the ferry to Sunrise Campground on Angel Island. "There are only 10 sites on the island and being so accessible from the San Francisco Bay Area (only a ferry ride away from Pier 39), you can see why it is in so high demand," explains Bryan R.
What campers like
Bridge views and city skylines: Kirby Cove Campground offers premium Golden Gate views. "This is an incredible spot, if you can get a reservation. Worth hiking to for the day if you can't. Right at the base of the Golden Gate with an easily accessible beach," reports Ashley S.
Wooded seclusion: For tree cover and forest camping, Anthony Chabot Regional Park delivers. "The eucalyptus groves make the air smell wonderful, and there is so much wildlife to see (deer, turkeys, owls, etc.). It's a great natural area that is so conveniently located in the Bay Area," Amanda P. explains.
Oceanfront proximity: Waterfront sites remain popular among reviewers. "Loved camping here! So peaceful, easily accessible from San Francisco," says Amrita R. about camping at Half Moon Bay State Beach.
Free overnight alternatives: Budget travelers appreciate the H. Dana Bower Rest Area. "We arrived around 5:30pm, and were able to park for the night. There are several parking spots. Several other campers soon pulled in around us," notes Reed G. about this unofficial option.
What you should know
Reservation competition: Many sites book quickly, especially during peak season. For Steep Ravine Campground, "you need to be ready to click 'reserve' on the website at no less than 5 minutes before the window opens for your dates of interest," advises Adam.
Noise considerations: Many coastal sites experience fog horn sounds. "BRING EARPLUGS. The fog horn doesn't quite if its foggy. And its LOUD," warns Ashley S. about Kirby Cove.
Wildlife interactions: Several sites report persistent wildlife. "I've been camping my whole life and NEVER have I seen raccoons so persistent. Not aggressive. Just persistent. And fearless. They. Will. Not. Leave. You. Alone," Daniel D. reports about Kirby Cove.
Urban camping realities: Sites closer to the city often reflect urban issues. "The streets are lined with homeless living in RVs etc leading up to the RV park and after," notes Devon M. about Candlestick RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety awareness: Not all beach locations allow swimming. At Half Moon Bay, "No dogs allowed in the beach in the park but a short walk away there is a public beach that is dog friendly, so that was nice for our doggo," Michell C. mentions.
Space between sites: Look for campgrounds with adequate separation. At Bicentennial Campground, "All three sites here are next to each other and have no separation," warns august M.
Transportation planning: Consider ferry schedules when camping on islands. "You have to take a boat to get out to Angel Island so you have to drive up to Tiburon and park your car and get onto one of the Ferry Boats," explains Marion D.
Tent versus cabin options: Families might appreciate cabins during winter or foggy periods. For Steep Ravine Cabins, "If you're intent on having the cabin experience, or if you're staying in winter, or staying for more than a couple days, or have kids and really want to set up house, then go for a cabin," recommends Adam.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites with full hookups are limited. At San Francisco RV Resort, "Spots are tight. Staff is great! Laundry hot tub pool are always clean. Right on the ocean (on a cliff)!" says Corrie G.
Proximity limitations: Most RV parks near Pacifica function more like parking lots. "Kind of magical really. But seriously this place is literally falling into the sea. Visit soon!" Kelly humorously warns about San Francisco RV Resort.
Urban accessibility: RVers prioritize proximity to attractions over spaciousness. "The area is a bit industrial but quick access to San Fran and the other sites around town. Nice bike trail right on the water," Mike M. notes about San Francisco RV Resort.
Cost considerations: Expect premium pricing. "Costs a lot but great for a basecamp to explore SF. People were nice amenities are basic, it's a parkinglot," Kelly candidly states about San Francisco RV Resort.
