Pescadero, California offers accessible tent camping options in an area marked by coastal fog belts that moderate temperatures year-round. The terrain combines coastal scrub with redwood groves at elevations ranging from sea level to 2,800 feet at Black Mountain's summit. Camping opportunities include both established state parks and more secluded backcountry sites, with many campsites requiring advance reservations during peak summer months.
What to do
Hike to ocean views: Castle Rock Trail Camp requires a 2.5-mile hike to reach the campground, making it perfect for beginners wanting to try backpacking. "The hike itself is great, offering sweeping views of the Santa Cruz mountains and the Pacific ocean to the west," notes a camper. On clear days from the ridgeline trails, hikers can see all the way to the ocean.
Visit local farms and shops: Ben Ries Campground at Butano State Park provides easy access to local agricultural attractions. "The campground is very close to PCH/Highway 1 and the beaches are lovely. PCH is also dotted with farms and fruit stands, artisan pies, etc. The closest town is Pescadaro, and has a tiny main street with an excellent coffee shop, and grocery store with fresh baked pies, breads, jams, sauces," shares one reviewer.
Explore connected trail systems: When tent camping in Pescadero, California, you'll find extensive trail networks connecting several parks. Black Mountain Backpacking Camp offers "plenty of trail options to tack on more mileage on either the hike in or out," making it adaptable for campers of varying experience levels. The main hike in is only 1.5 miles but can be extended for those wanting more challenge.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Ben Ries Campground, campers appreciate the thoughtful layout. "The sites are spaced apart nicely," notes one visitor. Another adds, "Large, user-friendly campsites surrounded by redwood trees. Great ferny hiking trails for every level of camper/hiker."
Beginner-friendly backpacking: First-time backpackers frequently mention how Castle Rock Trail Camp provides an accessible backcountry experience. "Great campsite with picnic tables and fantastic view for sunset," reports one camper. The site includes a shelter with tables for rainy weather, making it more approachable for those new to backcountry camping.
Dark night skies: Despite the tree canopy at many Pescadero area campsites, visitors can still experience night sky viewing. "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," explains a camper. The coastal location away from major urban light pollution contributes to better astronomical viewing.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many tent camping sites near Pescadero have unreliable water sources. At Castle Rock Trail Camp, "Although there is a communal water source at the campsite entrance, the water was deemed not safe to drink when I was there, and that had been the case for a while." Always check current conditions and bring water filters or extra water.
Weather patterns: Coastal camping near Pescadero means preparing for temperature fluctuations. At Ben Ries Campground, "Coast was a cool 60's-70's but warm in the sun (the coast/beaches are windy), night time was a lovely 55-59 degrees, easy to sleep, not too cold (first week in August)." Pack accordingly with layers for these microclimate variations.
Aggressive wildlife: Small animals may be a nuisance at some campgrounds. One camper at Butano State Park noted: "Feels super remote and primitive. Tucked in a redwood grove. Hikes are awesome. Flush toilets. But aggressive squirrels." Use provided food storage lockers and practice proper food storage techniques.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For families tent camping in Pescadero, look for campgrounds with convenient facilities. Ben Ries Campground offers "potable water throughout the campground, recycle bins, trash bins (animal proof) and bear lockers and firepits at each site. It does have a dishwashing station." These amenities make family camping more manageable.
Select appropriate hiking trails: Half Moon Bay RV Park provides easy access to family-friendly coastal trails. "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." These flat trails are suitable for children of various ages.
Consider site layout: When booking multiple sites for family gatherings, pay attention to site configurations. At Butano State Park, a camper advised, "If I were to come back and want two large sites to connect, I would choose either 6 and 8 or 10 and 13. If it's just two people, site 3 is pretty private as well as 14. 16 is also a good site, but too slanted."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: True RV camping near Pescadero is primarily limited to Half Moon Bay RV Park. "We enjoyed our 4 week stay... The RV Park is clean and secure. There are many full time residents that take pride in their community and it shows," reports one long-term visitor. Reservations are recommended well in advance, especially during summer months.
Site accessibility: RVers should call ahead about site assignments and access. "Prior to check in while enroute we appreciated her call assigning our site and the best way to enter it," noted a visitor. Some sites are more accommodating than others, with pull-through options available for larger rigs.
Alternative options: For RVers wanting to experience the redwoods, consider using Half Moon Bay as a base camp and taking day trips to the state parks. "We stayed thru the month of Nov 2021... Just a couple of minutes to downtown Half Moon Bay and 10 minutes to Pillar Point." This allows RV campers to experience both coastal and forest environments while maintaining hookup access.
