Most RV campgrounds near San Bruno, California sit within a 30-mile radius of the city, providing convenient access to both coastal and bay attractions. The area experiences mild year-round temperatures, with summer highs rarely exceeding 75°F and winter lows seldom dropping below 45°F. Local campgrounds typically remain open throughout all seasons, though advance booking is essential during peak travel periods from May through September.
What to do
Beach access nearby: Several campgrounds offer quick access to coastal activities. At Pillar Point RV Park in Half Moon Bay, visitors can enjoy "walking and bike trails, beach access, and friendly staff" with "lots of activities and places to eat within walking distance."
Hiking opportunities: The region offers numerous trails through diverse terrain. Near Cotillion Gardens RV Park, campers appreciate the "great hiking trails assessable from the campground" and one visitor noted there are "lots of hiking and exploring right from the campsite."
Public transit exploration: Many area campgrounds provide connections to public transportation. Marin RV Park campers particularly value that "the ferry and bus bus stops are within walking distance (10 min walk or 5 min drive)" allowing visitors to "enjoy a day of San Francisco without worrying about the RV."
What campers like
Ocean views: Waterfront campgrounds are highly rated for their scenic locations. One camper at San Francisco RV Resort described it as "an interesting rv park on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean" where visitors can enjoy "spectacular sunsets over the pacific if the fog permits" and even spotted "a couple whales too."
Redwood camping atmosphere: Several campgrounds feature old-growth redwoods creating a distinctive camping experience. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, guests describe it as a "cozy tight quarters but just enough room for a picnic bench, fire pit and hanging out area" with the campground "covered entirely by redwoods with plenty of shade for a cool vacation."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained amenities are consistently mentioned in positive reviews. Campers at Half Moon Bay RV Park note the "RV Park is clean and secure" with "facilities are clean, the atmosphere friendly and hospitable."
What you should know
Space limitations: Most RV campgrounds in the area have compact sites. One camper at Candlestick RV Park noted "it's a parking lot with close neighbors" though they appreciated the "nice and clean facilities."
Reservation requirements: Booking well in advance is essential, particularly for holiday weekends and summer months. Many campgrounds fill up months ahead of time for peak season.
Noise considerations: Proximity to highways and urban areas means some campgrounds experience traffic noise. Reviewers frequently mention road noise at coastal campgrounds, noting it's a trade-off for convenient locations.
Variable pricing: Nightly rates fluctuate significantly between seasons and locations. Coastal campgrounds generally command premium prices ranging from $90-$130 per night for full-hookup sites.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational amenities: Look for campgrounds with family activities included. Cotillion Gardens RV Park offers multiple options as "there's a pool, hiking trails, a little river" and visitors noted "lots of kids around using the playground, bicycling, playing basketball, and swimming in the pool."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide access to nature programs. Parents appreciate campgrounds near state parks where rangers often conduct interpretive programs during summer months.
Space for children: Consider the limited space at some facilities when traveling with families. One visitor noted that at some oceanfront RV parks, "there are a few picnic tables around, but nothing in terms of entertainment for kids."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Request specific site measurements when booking. Many RVers report tight conditions, with one noting their San Francisco RV Resort experience: "spaces were so cramped. Couldn't put our awning out."
Utility placements: Bring extension hoses and cords as hookup locations vary. A visitor at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort mentioned "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose."
Navigation challenges: Plan your arrival route carefully, particularly to campgrounds in wooded or hilly areas. A camper advised that at one redwood campground, "entrance is a little nerve racking on your first visit, but once your at your site you can relax."
Road access considerations: Be mindful of road restrictions when traveling to campgrounds. Several RVers mentioned avoiding certain routes with larger rigs, with one specifically advising "do not take highway 9 from Santa Cruz as the RV park will tell you."
