Tent campsites near Palo Alto, California range from coastal retreats to mountain refuges, typically at elevations between 500 and 2,500 feet. The region's Mediterranean climate means summer camping temperatures often reach 80-90°F during days, while dropping to the low 50s at night. The Santa Cruz Mountains create diverse microclimates where fog can roll in quickly during evening hours, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season.
What to do
Hiking waterfall trails: At Uvas Canyon County Park, the waterfall loop trail offers a gentle introduction to the area's natural beauty. "The trails are large and well defined for a very entry level experience," notes Derek B. Even during drought conditions, the network of small waterfalls provides scenic stops along the 6-mile trail system.
Explore redwood groves: The trails at Butano State Park wind through dense redwood forests. "Did a 12 hour hike around the entire park. It was long but gorgeous!" shares Tyler B. The park's varied elevation trails allow for both quick nature walks and full-day adventures.
Rock climbing: Many campers use Castle Rock Trail Camp as a base for climbing activities. The park offers various climbing routes suitable for different skill levels, with sandstone formations that attract climbers from throughout the Bay Area. Evening hiking along the ridgelines provides sunset views over the Pacific Ocean on clear days.
What campers like
Coastal proximity: Sites near Half Moon Bay provide easy beach access. "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," reports Patrick J. from Half Moon Bay RV Park.
Shaded campsites: The redwood canopy at many local campgrounds creates natural temperature regulation. "Large, user-friendly campsites surrounded by redwood trees. Great ferny hiking trails for every level of camper/hiker," mentions Renee W. about Butano State Park. This shade is particularly valuable during summer months.
Night sky viewing: Despite proximity to urban areas, certain campsites offer dark sky opportunities. "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," notes Kathleen C. Areas on ridge trails provide better sky visibility than valley locations.
What you should know
Water availability varies: At Black Mountain Backpacking Camp, there's no drinking water on site. "The pit toilet and bear boxes on site take a lot of the stress out for beginner backpackers," writes Lily H., though campers must pack in all needed water.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience unexpected noise interference. At Castle Rock, "There is a nearby shooting range and you can hear the gunshots during the daylight hours," reports Juliana S. Check campground reviews for specific noise factors before booking.
Seasonal restrictions: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Towle Campground in Palo Alto Foothills Park is only open May through October and limits reservations to Palo Alto residents. Wildfire danger often leads to fire bans during dry months regardless of posted fire pit availability.
Wildlife encounters: Food storage is critical at primitive tent sites near Palo Alto. "It is a crumb free park and they take it very seriously," explains one camper about Butano State Park. Even small food particles can attract wildlife, from aggressive squirrels to larger mammals.
Tips for camping with families
Short hiking distances: Castle Rock State Park Trail Campground offers a relatively accessible backpacking experience. "Hike a short 2.5mi to get to the campsite. 20 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings (when allowed)," reports Esther Y. This shorter distance makes it manageable for families with older children.
Clean facilities: Uvas Canyon County Park maintains family-friendly amenities. "Extremely beautiful & peaceful surroundings. Lots of trees. Rock walls heavy with moss. Facilities well constructed and maintained," shares Tom and Marianne H. The campground includes showers and flush toilets, unlike more primitive options.
Site spacing: Consider site proximity when camping with children. "The sites are close together so maybe bring ear plugs in case you have loud neighbors," advises one Uvas Canyon visitor. Some campsites at Butano State Park offer better separation: "Overall, the sites are spaced apart nicely."
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: For those camping in vehicles at Uvas Canyon County Park, site selection matters. "If you plan to sleep in your car, you may want to take leveling blocks as I found the car parking spot to be not leveled at all," recommends Mon M. Sites 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, and 12 are noted as having flatter parking areas.
Length restrictions: Many campgrounds in the Santa Cruz Mountains have tight turns and limited space. "Not sure if it can handle longer recreational vehicles and the road leading to the campground itself is quite narrow," cautions one camper about Uvas Canyon. Most tent camping sites near Palo Alto cannot accommodate large RVs or trailers over 25 feet.
