Tent camping opportunities around the San Mateo area include trails through chaparral terrain at elevations ranging from sea level to 2,600 feet. Microclimates vary dramatically across the Santa Cruz Mountains and coastal areas, with temperature differences of 15-20 degrees between inland sites and oceanfront locations. Winter camping typically features lows in the 40s, while summer temperatures rarely exceed 85 degrees at higher elevations.
What to do
Ridge hiking with ocean views: Castle Rock Trail Camp provides access to extensive hiking networks including the Skyline to the Sea Trail. The 2.5-mile hike in offers "sweeping views of the Santa Cruz mountains and the Pacific ocean to the west. There's even a waterfall right at the beginning of the hike," according to one camper at Castle Rock Trail Camp.
Coastal exploration: From Steep Ravine Campground, campers can access extensive coastal trails. One visitor noted, "It's about a mile into Stinson Beach if you need provisions or restaurants, and you can hike right onto the Steep Ravine / Matt Davis trails and climb all over Mt. Tam from the campground."
Redwood forest immersion: The Ben Ries Campground offers "great hiking trails in redwoods for all levels" according to a recent visitor. Another camper describes the experience as "a little bowl full of redwoods, a creek and great hiking. Lots of great tent sites but pick your site wisely so you are not too close to your neighbors."
What campers like
Peaceful oceanfront locations: The Bicentennial Campground provides quiet camping with exceptional views. A camper reported, "All three sites are next to each other and have no separation, but if you're okay with that it's a wonderful place to camp. Site 3 is closest to the views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the trails connected to the campground."
Isolation from urban areas: Despite proximity to San Francisco, Angel Island State Park creates a sense of remoteness. "When I got an invite last minute from a friend I reconnected with, I had to go. I am so glad I did! The upside of being patient with how far out you make your reservation is that once the last ferry leaves, you have the island practically to yourself."
Seasonal solitude: Winter camping offers significantly reduced crowds. One visitor to Ben Ries noted, "Camped here in off season in November and it was us and maybe 2 other campers. Feels super remote and primitive. Tucked in a redwood grove. Hikes are awesome."
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Most tent sites within 30 miles of San Mateo require advance planning. Rob Hill Campground in San Francisco is particularly difficult to secure. A camper explained, "There are 4, 30 person, group sites... Weekends are booked solid through the end of the year; however, weekday sites are available."
Parking and access constraints: Many sites require walking to reach camping areas. At Bicentennial Campground, "You get to park at the top of the hill and bring your stuff down which isn't very far." Another camper mentioned, "Had to walk all the way down to get to the camp site with all the gear."
Weather preparation requirements: Coastal areas experience significant wind, fog and temperature fluctuations. One Steep Ravine visitor advised, "It's typically windy in this area most afternoons from May to September. Between those months, there's always a chance of rain."
Tips for camping with families
Resident-only reservations: Towle Campground at Palo Alto Foothills Park maintains residency restrictions for reservations during peak months. The park allows non-residents to visit during weekdays but limits overnight camping primarily to Palo Alto residents from May through October.
Group sites for larger families: Rob Hill provides spacious accommodations for family gatherings. A visitor noted the campground has "4 sites that can accommodate 30 people each" and is "centered around a large communal campfire circle. Really seemed like the whole campground is very well organized and clean."
Wildlife awareness: Ben Ries Campground requires proper food storage. One camper mentioned, "It is also a crumb free park and they take it very seriously. There is no cell service." Another noted issues with "aggressive squirrels."
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping areas near San Mateo restrict RV access. Half Moon Bay RV Park offers one of the few developed options with full hookups. A recent visitor reported, "The site was a pull through as well as our friends who were able to face the opposite way to have a common camp side with us. Full hook ups with 30 amp, no issues."
Coastal access with larger vehicles: Half Moon Bay provides convenient shore access for RVers. According to one camper, "From the park you can head about a quarter of a mile and walk or ride the coastal path all the way to the marina or south to the Ritz Carlton. Great ocean views."
Seasonal considerations: Winter months offer better availability for RV sites. A visitor in November noted, "We enjoyed our 4 week stay. We stayed thru the month of Nov 2021. The RV Park is clean and secure. There are many full time residents that take pride in their community and it shows."
