Best RV Parks near San Mateo, CA

If you're looking for a place to park your RV near San Mateo, look no further. Find the best information on RV campsites and dispersed camping near San Mateo, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your RVing experience. The Dyrt can help you find the perfect RV campsites that are scenic and easy to access.

Best RV Sites Near San Mateo, CA (77)

    Camper-submitted photo from San Francisco RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from San Francisco RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from San Francisco RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from San Francisco RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from San Francisco RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from San Francisco RV Resort

    1. San Francisco RV Resort

    11 Reviews
    39 Photos
    165 Saves

    Just 15 miles from the Golden Gate Bridge, Half Moon Bay, Fisherman's Wharf, Alcatraz, and many of the SF Bay area's other favorites, Encore's San Francisco RV Resort's great location can't be beat! San Francisco RV Resort is situated on a 60ft bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean with amazing sunset views. The Pacific Ocean is ideal for surfers, tide-pool adventurers, and loungers alike! At this oceanside SF Bay area RV campground, our knowledgeable staff is eager to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Whether you would like help getting settled or want advice about planning a day-trip, San Francisco RV Resort is at your service

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Pillar Point RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pillar Point RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pillar Point RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pillar Point RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pillar Point RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pillar Point RV Park

    2. Pillar Point RV Park

    6 Reviews
    21 Photos
    106 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $67 - $84 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Ranch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Ranch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Ranch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Ranch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Ranch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Ranch Campground

    3. Santa Cruz Ranch Campground

    4 Reviews
    12 Photos
    66 Saves

    Nestled in the trees just minutes from Scotts Valley and Santa Cruz, our resort serves your RV vacation needs. Since the days of California's first inhabitants, Scotts Valley has been a popular place to stay. On Santa Cruz Ranch RV Resort are many Indian Grinding Rocks that were once used to grind acorns next to Carbonero Creek, which winds its way past our RV park. Santa Cruz is well-known for watersports such as sailing, diving, swimming, paddling, and surfing get active during your Santa Cruz RV camping vacation! It is the home of O'Neill Wetsuits, Santa Cruz Surfboards, Santa Cruz Skateboards, and Santa Cruz Bicycles. While enjoying Santa Cruz RV camping , turn up the fun at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - California's oldest amusement park. An easy trip from Santa Cruz Ranch RV Resort, you'll have great ocean views from the 1924 Giant Dipper roller coaster and 1911 Carousel together a National Historic Landmark. Santa Cruz RV camping in a well-known area for watersports Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Santa Cruz Ranch RV Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Marin RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Marin RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Marin RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Marin RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Marin RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Marin RV Park

    4. Marin RV Park

    10 Reviews
    7 Photos
    104 Saves

    If you’re planning an RV trip to San Francisco, Marin Park is the perfect place for your stay. As the nearest RV campground to San Francisco, the park is within walking distance of public transit services like the Larkspur Ferry and Golden Gate Transit (the bus). We offer a full range of amenities, including water and electrical RV hookups, laundry machines, and free Wi-Fi and cable TV. Pet-owners can enjoy a scenic dog walking area that overlooks the San Francisco Bay, and summer lodgers can cool off in our heated swimming pool. Plus, the park is staffed 24/7 to provide for any emergency needs that may arise. Both short- and long-term lodgers are welcome at Marin Park, so regardless how long you plan to stay, we have a space for you.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort

    5. Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort

    18 Reviews
    18 Photos
    293 Saves

    Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort is nestled in the redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Situated on the beautiful San Lorenzo River, and backed by Henry Cowell State Park, our clean and well maintained RV Park and campground offers guests a year-round, family-oriented, place to relax. Or a comfortable base camp for your outdoor adventure. We welcome families, groups, and RV clubs of most sizes. Experience the richness of Santa Cruz County where a hiking journey begins in an old-growth redwood forest, winds past graceful waterfalls, and ends on a pristine beach. Great outdoor fun awaits you with hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain bike riding. All RV sites come equipped with full hookups (electric, water, & sewer) and cable TV. There's also a spacious clubhouse on-site, clean bathrooms, hot showers, and much more.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotillion Gardens RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotillion Gardens RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotillion Gardens RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotillion Gardens RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotillion Gardens RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotillion Gardens RV Park

    6. Cotillion Gardens RV Park

    13 Reviews
    10 Photos
    73 Saves

    Welcome to Cotillion Gardens RV Park. Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, right next to Henry Cowell Redwood State Park, our secret little garden is hidden amongst the massive redwood trees and waiting for your arrival.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Treasure Island MH and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Treasure Island MH and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Treasure Island MH and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Treasure Island MH and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Treasure Island MH and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Treasure Island MH and RV Park

    7. Treasure Island MH and RV Park

    3 Reviews
    7 Photos
    29 Saves
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Smithwoods RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Smithwoods RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Smithwoods RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Smithwoods RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Smithwoods RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Smithwoods RV Park

    8. Smithwoods RV Park

    7 Reviews
    28 Photos
    128 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Trailer Villa RV Park

    9. Trailer Villa RV Park

    4 Reviews
    1 Photo
    53 Saves
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • RVs
    • Trash
    • WiFi
    • Showers
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Morgan Hill
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Morgan Hill
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Morgan Hill
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Morgan Hill
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Morgan Hill
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Morgan Hill

    10. Thousand Trails Morgan Hill

    7 Reviews
    32 Photos
    110 Saves

    Morgan Hill RV Camping , a Thousand Trails RV campground in California , offers all of the famous views and vineyards that draw visitors year after year. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Santa Cruz Mountains in the southern end of the Silicon Valley (Santa Clara County), this 66-acre RV campground preserve is a perfect home base in California for touring many of the popular attractions and destinations in the Central Coast. More than 20 wineries and vineyards inhabit the local area, and there is a train depot only six miles from Morgan Hill and the RV camping preserve. Additionally, Uvas Creek flows through the campground, offering scenic views. At Morgan HIll RV Camping , you'll find plenty to do on-site as well as have access to nearby hiking trails and fishing areas that connect to our RV campground in California. Scenic RV Campground in California Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Morgan Hill RV Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 77 campgrounds

Recent RV Reviews In San Mateo

490 Reviews of 77 San Mateo Campgrounds


  • Günter S.
    Camper-submitted photo from French Camp Recreational Vehicle Park
    Oct. 25, 2024

    French Camp Recreational Vehicle Park

    Camp Site doesnt accsist!

    The coordinate given are Not valid. It is a residential area and not an RV nore an campsite! Reservation per phone with none refondable possibility. Be carefull! Dont book!

  • Cloey J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Wilderness Park
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Skyline Wilderness Park

    Beautiful location

    Beautiful view we were in campsite 40. A beautiful view of vineyards and the sunset and people riding their horses. So calm and beautiful and so many activities here to do. Also there is showers, bathrooms, and hookups, we love this place. Only 8 mins from downtown Napa

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Olema Campground
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Olema Campground

    Spacious and Accommodating

    We visited this park earlier this spring. Yes it was wet, but we didn't mind. Liked the spaces and layout so much...we are going back this fall. Plus we love that whole area.

    However, DYRT got some info wrong. While there are plenty of full hookup spaces for RVs, there are no pull thru sites. Only back in for trailers and drive-in for coaches. Many tent camping spaces and RV spaces w/just water and power. The folks are friendly and helpful.

    M.R.

  • UThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Coyote Valley RV Resort
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Coyote Valley RV Resort

    Buttoned up, formal atmosphere RV resort

    High priced. Nice people at desk. Damon who helped us park was very friendly. Almost entirely high-priced big rigs, some of whom seem settled here but it's clean, 'orderly,' very quiet. Rigid rules keep the order; nice that no political flags/signs allowed. 2 dog parks and lots of grassy areas to take for a walk. Showers in locker-room/bldg, bathrooms nice and clean. Green grass. Also has laundry with 2.50 wash and.25 dry for 8 min. Skunk wandered by site in the night. Cool train sounds from nearby tracks at night. Was probably the most convenient to San Jose, otherwise we likely would've been in mtns. and too far away from town for our needs at the time. Would not be a regular choice for us.

  • Carly C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from H. Dana Bower Rest Area Northbound
    Oct. 6, 2024

    H. Dana Bower Rest Area Northbound

    Great location

    Great location overlooking the city, has facilities like toilets and drinking fountains. Very busy when I was here on a Saturday night with locals, tourists and Mexican street vendors. Can’t complain because it’s free and close to the city

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from New Brighton State Beach
    Sep. 30, 2024

    New Brighton State Beach

    Love it here

    There are a ton of reviews for this place already so I will try to keep it short and only add info that I didn't see mentioned in previous reviews.

    Showers are $0.25 per min ($0.50 min to start).  You don't get to adjust water temp, but it was pleasantly hot. Showers are non-gendered and individual.

    Dump station is no longer free; all California State Parks are charging $10 to dump now, even for campers.  You pay at the dump site with a credit card. There are 4 dump holes and a potable water fill as well.

    We love staying here as it's so convenient to Capitola. We were able to park our RV in Capitola and walk to the shops. We got last minute reservations (it's really hard to book a site here in the summer), but had to move sites in between days, and so we used that 2 hour block between noon checkout and 2pm checkin to drive the RV to Capitola. It seemed like it would have been too much of a hassle to try and get to move to the new spot before checkin, so this worked out fine.

    We love all the state parks along the beach in California, and I'm sure we'll be back at some point.

  • Mouni The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from H. Dana Bower Rest Area Northbound
    Sep. 24, 2024

    H. Dana Bower Rest Area Northbound

    Rest Stop

    I’m not sure that this can be considered established or even legal camping since it is a rest stop. The location is awesome considering it’s right beside of the Golden State Bridge, but it also makes it a popular spot for a lot of people to hang out at and watch the sunset and other tourist attractions and even local activity.

  • CJ S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Enchanted Forest Mountain Redwood Retreat
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Enchanted Forest Mountain Redwood Retreat

    Not great for the price

    The pictures here are very deceiving. Driving in, the first 4 campsites are occupied by broken down trailers, an overturned couch and broken BBQ pits. We stayed in site #6 which was probably one of the best sites. Great shade and car was able to be parked nearby (you walk down non-maintained "stairs" with rotted tree branches as the steps).  

    Overall, I had high hopes based on the description here especially reading: "Our onsite staff will go around and enforce the rules." but this is clearly a non-maintained campground that was probably very nice 45 years ago. No hiking trails are maintained, the bathrooms are "rustic" which is fine--nice to have running water when you've got little ones to clean. But the floors were rotted and I was afraid we'd step through the floorboards. 

    If you are a true car camper who can lock your doors at night, this is probably the spot for you. Running water, showers and washing machine. If you are a tent camper with small kids like me, this is not where you want to stay. I'm disappointed I paid the price I did to stay here, I'd pay $25/night because this is essentially a parking space in a poorly maintained campground.

  • Sean Z.
    Camper-submitted photo from Anthony Chabot Regional Park
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Anthony Chabot Regional Park

    Great time inconvenienced by yellow jackets

    We love to camp here for barbecuing, mountain biking and hiking. We always do it during 7/4 holidays except for this year when the park canceled our reservation due to high heat. So we booked for the Labor Day weekend. Temperature was perfect and biking and hiking were enjoyable as usual. This year we had two new types of visitors to the the site. A couple of wild turkeys came to pick up the dropped food on the ground. We were able to take a closeup look at them and they were beautiful birds with big eyes spotting tiny bits of crumbs. They come and go from one site to the next quietly and gently. Very cute and we took pictures with their presence. Then came the aggressive yellow jackets. We never had yellow jackets in our previous 7/4 outings here. Oh boy, they fought for the meat relentlessly. At the end of the outing, both my finger and my wife’s were stung. We reported the experience to the attendant at the gate when leaving. She said the park is looking for a solution. In the meantime, she suggested contacting them early on so they might be able to provide another site. Hopefully, next year, we won’t encounter so many nasties.

  • Martin L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Olema Campground
    Aug. 23, 2024

    Olema Campground

    Great getaway spot

    Ok, I was originally hoping for a cabin, which is included in my search, but this CG is either tent or RV only. Luckily, I also brought a tent.

    I was there 2 weeks ago. It's a fairly large area and flat. Lots of space for kids to play including a play area.

    Sheep roam freely in one area towards the back.

    It's a great place for families. Showers are great. Includes a small shop for goodies.

    I love it there. Only negative is there are only portapotties. Except for a couple that are constantly in use.

  • Elisha E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Seacliff Center Trailer Park
    Aug. 9, 2024

    Seacliff Center Trailer Park

    Amazing people, amazing location

    After weeks on the road, we were so grateful to find a last minute spot a short, beautiful, and whimsical walk away from the beach!!! The campground itself is simple but full of good vibes with FREE showers and ice cream two minute stroll away!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from H. Dana Bower Rest Area Northbound
    Jul. 25, 2024

    H. Dana Bower Rest Area Northbound

    Great spot and free but really dirty

    The rest area was surprisingly quiet given its location. There was ample parking, and thankfully, the parking spots weren’t illuminated by bright street lamps, which was a nice touch considering we stopped her to sleep. However, the bathrooms were filthy during our stop, which was quite disappointing. Another downside was the lack of vending services; if you’re in need of caffeine or snacks, be sure to bring them along.

    An important point to note is that you can only access this rest area when traveling northbound off the bridge. If you miss it, you’ll have to cross the bridge again, which costs $9-10 each time you head south into San Francisco. This is a significant consideration for those planning their stops carefully.

    Also, cold here in the summer. Pack for fall weather.

  • Vincent B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from New Brighton State Beach
    Jul. 23, 2024

    New Brighton State Beach

    Good spot with availability

    Despite the website showing every site booked, we drove in about 4 pm to a decent number of sites. Entry ranger was available pretty late. Site was $35 I believe, and has paid showers and restrooms. Site had a fire pit, paved parking for a larger vehicle, table and decent amount of shade. Lots of families and lots of kids. Cool weather along the beach, can't ask for much more.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Enchanted Forest Mountain Redwood Retreat
    Jul. 9, 2024

    Enchanted Forest Mountain Redwood Retreat

    This was an excellent getaway

    Booked this as a last minute escape from the heat where I live and it didn’t disappoint. Towering Coastal Redwoods provide for tons of shade and really nice campsites. Definitely a dry time of year but there were still some beautiful wildflowers to be seen. There’s a lovely easy trail that takes you to a stream along a mostly shaded path. I imagine that during the spring you’ll get a greater runoff but it was still really nice. Saturday was pretty bust with campers but Sunday was almost all vacant so it felt like I had the whole place to myself and the wildlife showed up. The hosts were communicative and descriptions and directions were great. Zero cell service with Verizon but it was nice to just unplug. I would definitely recommend this one. Happy camping!

  • Alma L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Del Valle Regional Park
    May. 28, 2024

    Del Valle Regional Park

    Distance from home was the highlight

    I had a very different take on this place than the others. The RV spot was a fair distance from the neighboring spots, it was low-density, quite, all good qualities, but there was very little see or do near the loop. There were no hikes suitable for young kids as far as I could tell. There was a little store for ice cream and camping supplies and dump station on the loop.  HOWEVER, WARNING: the road around the campground looks wide but there are boulders every 10 feet or so making it insanely hard to back into our spot - and we had only a 22ft trailer! I can't see myself coming back here. The maps do accurately depict the relatively narrow space you have for back in spots. Once we were in, it was fine.  The pedestal and sewer set-up was just fine. No issues there. It's just not worth the hassle. 

    As for the park/water part of the park, well, it was covered in garbage from the day-trippers. It was packed and only accessible by driving to it. Truly not a place I wanted to BBQ or picnic at.  Cars, people, dogs, loud music, and garbage. A gross diaper on the shore.     We took a very nice hike starting at the dog run. That was beautiful, but not worth the trip.

    I didn't bother to photograph our site. There were all adequate, just avoid back in site here. There are so many better places to visit.  I checked this off the list, no reason to return. I don't believe there was reception either from the campsite.

    Last thing, we peaked in on the cabins in our loop. They looks very nice and maintained.

  • Steinar G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from H. Dana Bower Rest Area Northbound
    May. 8, 2024

    H. Dana Bower Rest Area Northbound

    Great place to stay

    Stayed for two nights, great view. Reasonably quiet on the side away from the road. Very safe, police patrols throughout the day/night. Good hiking areas nearby. Bathrooms and trash cans. Highly recommend as it is also completely free.

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area
    May. 3, 2024

    Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area

    1 Night

    We stayed 1 night and it was perfect. The staff was very nice and the place was clean and quiet. There are toilets and showers on the campground and it only cost 10$!

    the campsite is perfect for traveling through and getting a night's sleep.

  • Tina M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Morgan Hill
    Apr. 26, 2024

    Thousand Trails Morgan Hill

    Good location

    We liked the surrounding area and gorgeous rolling hills and while we were able to get a good spot it was not a campground that stood out too much to us. The pool is great though it was too cold to use it while we were there. No sewer hook up but dump station was close from our side. Overall happy with the stay

  • Tony G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Basin Redwoods State Park (Temporarily Closed)
    Apr. 18, 2024

    Big Basin Redwoods State Park (Temporarily Closed)

    Closed to camping

    Big Basin is unfortunately closed to camping. You can't even bring a trailer in for day use as parking is very limited. This is due to a fire a few years back that devastated the park and completely burned down all structures, including ranger station, store, and all restrooms.

    It is a shame because it is/was a fantastic place.

  • Dustin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Olema Campground
    Apr. 3, 2024

    Olema Campground

    Great CG close to Pt Reyes!

    Just left here with a group of 33 3rd graders. We stayed in the meadow area. It was wet as it had just rained, but overall it was a nice place. Small store, full hookups in places (will bring our trailer back), tables, fire rings. Not much privacy but at least this weekend it was quiet (except for our group 🤣)

  • Joseph G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kirby Cove Campground — Golden Gate National Recreation Area
    Mar. 15, 2024

    Kirby Cove Campground — Golden Gate National Recreation Area

    Great Location with AMAZING Views

    My family and I spent two nights at campsite #5.  We had a really great experience here!

    We visited Kirby in March 2024 and the weather was not as bad as I thought it would be.  The temperature was in the 50's for the most part.  There was decent amount of wind but not enough to make a stink about.  I was comfortable in pants and a sweatshirt the whole time, never had to break out my jacket.  During the day, it was warm enough to wear a t-shirt.  It rained a little bit overnight both nights we were there but we were equipped to deal with the conditions.

    Each site has three square shaped wood-framed plots to pitch your tent on.   Two of them are covered in a bed of rocks and one of them was raised about two feet off the ground.  The third plot on our site did not have rocks.  I would recommend bringing a tent footprint to prevent the rocks from damaging the bottom of your tent.   Our site's fire ring was equipped with a thick steel BBQ grate that swivels laterally over the fire ring.  Our fire ring's grate covered a good portion of the fire ring so it was useful for cooking.  I'd like to note that not all campsites are equipped with the same style of fire ring as our site had.  Campsite #5 also had three picnic tables (two of them were bolted to the ground, one of them was not) and a bearproof storage container.

    The campgrounds itself is relatively small (only 5 overnight sites).  You will receive a gate code emailed to you upon reservation which you will need to unlock a gate that leads you down a long dirt road to the bottom of a valley where the campgrounds are located.  The parking lot is sort of small but finding a spot wasn't an issue.  The parking lot is sitting on top of a hill, overlooking the entire campgrounds.  The sites themselves aren't too far away from the parking lot, but hauling your gear back uphill to your vehicle after camping a couple nights can be tiresome.  There are a few pit toilets scattered throughout the campgrounds that were relatively clean.  There is no running water at Kirby, so make sure you bring enough water!  The old military ruins (I believe from the late 1800's)  were also cool to explore.  The views of the Golden Gate and the city are breathtaking.  We got to watch between 10-12 large shipping vessels float in and out of the bay, very cool!  

    All in all, we loved our stay at Kirby and will definitely be camping there again during the warmer months!



Guide to San Mateo

Camping near San Mateo, California, offers a great mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The local trails and creeks were breathtaking," making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • Beach Access: Visit New Brighton State Beach Campground for a day at the beach. A camper shared, "Great views and easy access to the beach," highlighting the convenience of this location.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground, keep an eye out for local wildlife. One visitor noted, "We were harassed by cute little chipmunks and birds," adding a fun twist to your camping experience.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground said, "It’s a lovely campsite with most sites being under tree canopies."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Mount Madonna County Park remarked, "The VERY cleanest restrooms, with the added convenience of hand soap!!"
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families enjoy the activities available. A camper at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA mentioned, "This place is busy and expensive but great for kids," thanks to its many amenities.

What you should know:

  • Reservations: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground said, "Always tough to get a reservation, but it never disappoints if you can get one."
  • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of wildlife, especially at Anthony Chabot Regional Park. One visitor shared, "We had two new types of visitors... aggressive yellow jackets," so keep food secured.
  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at New Brighton State Beach Campground noted, "Only one bar AT&T cell coverage," so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. One reviewer at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA mentioned, "Great playground, jumping pillow, petting farm and mining fun."
  • Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites. A family at Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground found, "The sites themselves are a little close quarters, but all provide just about enough space."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring food and snacks, as some campgrounds have limited markets. A camper at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground noted, "There is also no cell coverage for any of the major providers."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Mount Madonna County Park mentioned, "The RV sites have both water and electric hookups which was great!"
  • Dump Station Availability: Look for campgrounds with dump stations. A camper at Anthony Chabot Regional Park said, "The dump station was in good working order."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Bring layers, as temperatures can drop at night. A reviewer at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground advised, "It gets very cold at night always better safe than sorry when it comes to layers."

Camping around San Mateo, CA, offers a variety of experiences, from beach days to forest hikes. With the right preparation, you can enjoy all that this beautiful area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular RV campsite near San Mateo, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular RV campground near San Mateo, CA is San Francisco RV Resort with a 3-star rating from 11 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find RV camping near San Mateo, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 77 RV camping locations near San Mateo, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.