Tent campsites near Portola Valley, California range from primitive backcountry sites to more developed walk-in areas tucked into the Santa Cruz Mountains. The region sits at elevations between 400-2,800 feet, creating a mix of redwood forest and oak woodland ecosystems. Winter camping temperatures typically range from 40-60°F, with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F in most locations.
What to do
Climb unique rock formations: Castle Rock State Park features distinctive sandstone outcroppings popular with rock climbers of all skill levels. A camper at Castle Rock Trail Camp noted it's "sweet hike in trail camp. We have used it for two purposes. First when were were climbing in Castle Rock State Park and this was our hub and second when we were doing the Skyline to the Sea Trail."
Hike to ocean views: Many trails from campgrounds offer Pacific Ocean vistas on clear days. At Black Mountain Backpacking Camp, the 1.5-mile trail provides "plenty of trail options to tack on more mileage on either the hike in or out" with "the view at sunset was gorgeous."
Explore Pescadero: The small coastal town near Ben Ries Campground has local attractions worth visiting. "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, and a deli counter as well as sundry items. There are cheese farms/creameries as well surrounding the park."
What campers like
Varied difficulty levels: The region offers both beginner-friendly and more challenging camping options. At Black Mountain Backpacking Camp, "The hike in is only 1.5 miles, but there's plenty of trail options to tack on more mileage. The pit toilet and bear boxes on site take a lot of the stress out for beginner backpackers."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds provide adequate spacing between tent sites. One camper at Castle Rock Trail Camp mentioned "the sites were spaced nicely to allow for privacy. Frog Flat seemed a bit more secluded than the main camp."
Redwood canopies: Portola Redwoods State Park Campground and Ben Ries Campground offer camping beneath old-growth redwoods. A visitor described Ben Ries as "lush, shaded campsites among the redwoods" that are "good for beginners" with "lots of great hiking trails in redwoods for all levels."
What you should know
Water availability concerns: Many tent sites near Portola Valley have unreliable water sources. A camper at Castle Rock Trail Camp reported "there was no water running at the site when I stayed there, but vault toilets were available." At Sunol, a backpacker noted "the sites are primitive and the water source questionable and unreliable. I hiked in all the water I needed."
Noise considerations: Some campsites experience unexpected noise from nearby areas. At Castle Rock, "There is a nearby shooting range and you can hear the gunshots during the daylight hours."
Wildlife precautions: Several campgrounds require proper food storage due to active wildlife. A camper at Ben Ries Campground warned of "aggressive squirrels" while noting it "feels super remote and primitive. Tucked in a redwood grove."
Tips for camping with families
Short backpacking options: For families new to backpacking, several sites offer manageable distances. Black Mountain is "great for beginner backpackers" with only a 1.5-mile hike in, while Castle Rock Trail Camp requires "a short 2.5mi to get to the campsite. 20 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings (when allowed)."
Educational opportunities: Coyote Hills Regional Park provides family-friendly nature programs. One visitor shared: "We walked through and enjoyed the nature areas so much. We continue to go back and spend time at Cayote Hills because it is so beautiful. We can't wait until the next time."
Creek exploration: Children enjoy the water features at several campgrounds. At Sunol, a visitor mentioned it "starts along a creek/river which is referred to as Little Yosemite. Fun creek area with lots of water/rock formations."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The mountainous terrain around Portola Valley restricts RV camping primarily to Half Moon Bay RV Park. A visitor reported "the RV part is comprised of 80% permanent residents. All rigs look to be maintained and sites without clutter. 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."
Site positioning: When RV camping is available, positioning matters for social setups. One RVer at Half Moon Bay noted their 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."
Coastal trail access: RVers appreciate the accessibility to coastal trails from established parks. A Half Moon Bay camper shared that "lots of great beaches and an excellent trail that goes on forever within walking distance."
