Best Campgrounds near San Jose, CA
San Jose camping areas include several good options for a weekend getaway. New Brighton State Beach Campground offers ocean views and direct beach access, though you'll need to book ahead since spots fill quickly. California Veterans Memorial Park Campground sits among trees and gives campers a quieter setting not far from Monterey. Francis Beach Campground in Half Moon Bay puts you right by the shoreline with great coastal views. These sites each have different amenities depending on what you're looking for in a camping trip. Most campgrounds can be reached via paved roads, but it's smart to check conditions if you're visiting during rainy periods. The wildlife is active throughout these areas, so store your food properly to keep animals away from your campsite. Rules differ between campgrounds - many require advance bookings and have specific rules about fires. Most places limit stays to about 14 days to keep sites available for everyone. Group camping may require special permits at certain locations. Summer brings warm weather that's great for beach camping, while spring and fall have milder temperatures and fewer people around. Winter camping works too, but bring extra layers for cold nights. Always check the latest rules before heading out, as restrictions can change seasonally. The San Jose region has camping options ranging from beachfront to forest settings for any type of outdoor trip.