RV camping near Redwood City, California offers access to both urban amenities and natural landscapes. Sites range from oceanfront properties on coastal bluffs to forested spots surrounded by redwoods, with temperatures typically between 55-75°F year-round. Campers should expect higher prices than inland areas due to proximity to San Francisco Bay, with most full-hookup sites ranging from $75-125 per night.
What to do
Coastal trail access: San Francisco RV Resort provides direct access to coastal paths along the Pacific. One camper noted, "Nice bike trail right on the water" and another mentioned, "Nice trail to walk along the water and cliff, nice restoration project going."
Whale watching: From oceanside spots, wildlife viewing is possible without leaving your site. At San Francisco RV Resort, a visitor observed, "When it's clear you can see the farralon islands 30 miles offshore. Saw a couple whales too."
Explore redwoods: Within 30 minutes of Redwood City, Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort offers natural settings with tall trees. A visitor shared, "The campground is all natural! Trees and nature all around. Viewing areas that allow all to enjoy the stream, at the back of the resort, and paths to take a closer look."
Urban excursions: Marin RV Park serves as a strategic base for San Francisco visits. One camper explained, "30 mins away from the City... one can be in the city within 30mins. We will def stay here again."
What campers like
Oceanfront settings: Despite tight spacing, the Pacific views draw campers to coastal locations. A visitor to San Francisco RV Resort said, "It has a ca beach town feel, but is just 20 minutes from San Francisco... Spectacular sunsets over the pacific if the fog permits."
Walking-distance conveniences: Many sites have nearby services. One camper at San Francisco RV Resort pointed out, "Walgreens, Safeway, and a couple coffee shops, local bakery and restaurants all walking distance."
Clean facilities: Pillar Point RV Park maintains its amenities well. A visitor commented, "Great spot right off the highway and on the beach. Lots of activities and places to eat within walking distance."
Level sites: Many parks offer concrete or gravel pads that require minimal setup. At Trailer Villa RV Park, a camper noted, "The park is clean, in a nice area and close to San Jose and San Francisco. I really liked how our site was level and easy to get to."
What you should know
Tight spacing: Most RV parks prioritize capacity over privacy. A camper at Pillar Point RV Park cautioned, "When the park is full the spaces can get pretty tight."
Noise considerations: Traffic sounds can affect sleep quality at some parks. A Pillar Point visitor mentioned, "Sleeping near a highway is a little loud at night."
Reservation challenges: Some parks use online-only booking systems. At Treasure Island MH and RV Park, a camper noted, "Reservation was stressful and annoying!!! No person on site, but security drives around."
Variable pricing: Rates fluctuate based on location and view. At San Francisco RV Resort, rates surprised some visitors: "This place was $136/night for oceanview... For $136/night, I'd expect internet to be included."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Some parks offer swimming options. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, a visitor shared, "I loved this campsite! Plenty of trees for shade, there's a pool, hiking trails, a little river. So beautiful and peaceful here."
Kid-friendly activities: Look for parks with recreation options. One camper at Cotillion Gardens said, "Spent 2 nights here with our 2&3 year olds. Sites are a little tight but worth being nestled in the redwoods. Kids liked the pool and clubhouse."
Safe driving environment: Some parks enforce slow speeds for child safety. A visitor to Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort noted, "I felt safe, with my young kids, that everyone was driving slowly and respecting the rules."
Clubhouse availability: Indoor recreation spaces provide backup options. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, campers can access a "Clubhouse 9 am - 9 pm (Tv, couch, dining tables, fridge, microwave, board games) deck with public BBQ area."
Tips from RVers
Extension requirements: Hookup distances vary between parks. A visitor to Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort advised, "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose. Shore chord was fine as was the water spigot."
Internet access: WiFi quality varies significantly. At Candlestick RV Park, a camper reported, "Great WiFi" despite other limitations of the facility.
Maneuvering space: Roads and site access can be challenging. At Trailer Villa RV Park, a visitor appreciated that "drive lanes AND parking spots are wide and spacious for maneuvering large RVs."
Road access considerations: Some parks have tricky entrances. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, a camper warned, "Getting there takes some attention. Do not take highway 9 from Santa Cruz as the RV park will tell you... Roads to the sites are narrow, so again, keep your eyes pealed."
