RV campground options near San Carlos, California range from coastal settings to redwood-surrounded facilities within a 30-mile radius. The peninsula location puts campers between the cool ocean climate to the west and the warmer inland temperatures to the east. Most RV parks in this area operate year-round with strong cellular connectivity throughout the region.
What to do
Coastal trail exploring: Access the coastal trail system directly from Pillar Point RV Park in Half Moon Bay. "Walking distance to shops and restaurants, walking and bike trails, beach access, and friendly staff! Only cons are the extremely busy road is right next to the park, it can be very loud and when the park is full the spaces can get pretty tight."
Whale watching: The Pacific coastline provides opportunities for marine wildlife viewing. "When it's clear you can see the farralon islands 30 miles offshore. On the downside the 'campsites' are close together… it's more like a parking lot than a campground, but everyone is friendly and the overall vibe is good."
Redwood hiking: Multiple trails near Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort offer hiking opportunities among ancient trees. "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."
What campers like
Proximity to San Francisco: Most RV parks serve as convenient bases for city exploration. "This is an interesting rv park on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It has a ca beach town feel, but is just 20 minutes from San Francisco. Walgreens, Safeway, and a couple coffee shops, local bakery and restaurants all walking distance."
Ferry access: Marin RV Park provides strategic access to public transportation. "The location is really convenient given that the ferry and bus bus stops are within walking distance (10 min walk or 5 min drive). We parked the RV at the ferry station and where able to enjoy a day of San Francisco without worrying about the RV."
Beach sounds: Several RV parks along the coast feature wave sounds. "Sunset was nice, crashing waves to sleep to were nice." Another camper noted, "Loved the view but sleeping near a highway is a little loud at night... nice place to go explore the beach and trails."
What you should know
Site spacing limitations: Most RV parks in the area feature tight spacing between sites. "If you have slide outs, careful to not hit your neighbor!" Another camper observed, "It's a parking lot with close neighbors. Nice and clean facilities."
Bathroom quality varies: Trailer Villa RV Park in Redwood City stands out for cleanliness. "The park is clean, in a nice area and close to San Jose and San Francisco. We really enjoyed our stay. I really liked how our site was level and easy to get to."
Reservation policies: Many parks have specific cancellation fees. One camper reported, "Prior, I had to change the dates and was rewarded a $35 change fee. I did it online, so it wasn't like I put anyone to any tedious task."
Price considerations: RV parks closer to San Francisco charge premium rates, often $100+ per night. "122 US$ for one night" noted one camper about a standard site.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Cotillion Gardens RV Park offers family-friendly recreation. "I loved this campsite! Plenty of trees for shade, there's a pool, hiking trails, a little river. So beautiful and peaceful here."
Game facilities: Some parks provide indoor activities. "There was also a large clubhouse with foosball, ping pong and arcade games which is open from 9am - 9pm. My daughters used the clubhouse while I set up camp and after waking up while I stayed in bed for a little while."
Kid-friendly atmosphere: Several parks have dedicated play areas. "There are lots of kids around using the playground, bicycling, playing basketball, and swimming in the pool." One visitor emphasized safety aspects: "I felt safe, with my young kids, that everyone was driving slowly and respecting the rules."
Tips from RVers
Leveling: Many parks offer concrete pads for easy setup. "The sites were 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."
Utilities: Half Moon Bay RV Park provides full connections with some layout variations. "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose. Shore chord was fine as was the water spigot."
Site selection strategies: When possible, visit during weekdays for better spacing. "When the park is full, it is close. Go on weekdays, not as busy and more room is likely. Bring your sewer hose extension. Most other sites had them from what I could see."
Internet access: Several parks offer WiFi with varying quality. "My Starlink was heavily obstructed by trees so worked at 40% speed." Another camper noted, "Free excellent wifi and over 100 TV channels with full hookups."
