Best Campgrounds near Palo Alto, CA

Camping near Palo Alto offers a great escape into nature, with beautiful campgrounds that cater to various preferences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly spot, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The local trails and creeks were breathtaking," making it a perfect spot for novice hikers.
• Beach Access: Enjoy the sun and surf at New Brighton State Beach Campground. A visitor shared, "Great views and easy access to the beach," highlighting the campground's prime location.
• Wildlife Watching: At Anthony Chabot Regional Park, you might spot wild turkeys and other wildlife. One camper noted, "We were able to take a closeup look at them," making it a fun experience for nature lovers.

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the beautiful surroundings at Mount Madonna County Park. A reviewer said, "What a gem of a campground! We’ll definitely come back!"
• Clean Facilities: Many enjoy the well-maintained restrooms and showers at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground. One visitor remarked, "Showers and toilets looked clean," which is always a plus when camping.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like New Brighton State Beach are popular with families. A camper mentioned, "Lots of families and lots of kids," making it a lively spot for children.

What you should know:

• Crowded Sites: Some campgrounds can feel cramped. At Saddle Mountain Ranch, a visitor noted, "The sites are very close to each other," which might not suit everyone.
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. For instance, California Veterans Memorial Park Campground has basic facilities, and one reviewer said, "A bit too expensive for what you get."
• Wildlife Caution: Be mindful of wildlife, especially at Anthony Chabot Regional Park. One camper warned about aggressive yellow jackets, saying, "We reported the experience to the attendant."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like New Brighton State Beach, where families can enjoy the beach and playgrounds. A reviewer said, "The camp site is located on park grounds," making it convenient for kids.
• Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or games to keep kids entertained. One camper at Mount Madonna County Park mentioned, "There are quite a few trails that are currently closed due to storm damage," so check trail conditions before heading out.
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy. A visitor at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground noted, "You’re going to have to stay up the rest of the night," so be prepared for late-night munchies.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site dimensions. A camper at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground mentioned, "Not sure that this place would be good for giant rigs."
• Use Dump Stations: Familiarize yourself with nearby dump stations, like the one at New Brighton State Beach, which charges $20.
• Book Early: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during weekends. 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."

Camping around Palo Alto, California, offers a variety of experiences, from beach fun to forest hikes. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor adventure!