Redwood forests dominate the camping landscape in the areas surrounding Union City, California, with elevation changes providing diverse microclimates within short distances. Temperatures in these areas often drop 15-20 degrees lower than Union City itself, especially in the evening hours when coastal fog rolls in. Most glamping sites in the region require reservations 4-6 months in advance during peak summer season.
What to do
Coastal hiking trails: Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground features multiple hiking opportunities along coastal bluffs and beaches. "You can walk for miles on the beach or on the bluff trails. Everyone is laidback which makes for a peaceful experience," notes Jill F. Access to several dog-friendly beaches is also available a short distance away, making it suitable for pet owners seeking glamping near Union City.
Archery practice: Mount Madonna County Park offers an archery trail with 28 targets through wooded areas. "There is an archery trail with 28 targets on a trail through the woods. We were there 3 days in a row and did 20 of the 28. It's really pretty and a cool challenge," shares April N. This provides a unique outdoor activity option beyond standard hiking.
Wildlife viewing: Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground offers opportunities to observe local fauna. "Raccoons, Chipmunks and Blue Jays were NOT SHY but also not a harrowing issue," reports Kathleen C. The park's location provides easy access to additional activities: "The win on this campground is how close it is to Point Reyes National Seashore, San Rafael, Olema, Novato and Marshall."
What campers like
Ocean proximity: Pelican Point RV Park offers convenient beach access for those seeking glamping options near Union City. "We stayed here for approximately 2 weeks and loved the location... 5 minute walk to the beach," comments Deanna B. The campground's location combines coastal access with security: "everyone is pretty laid back, don't have to worry about your stuff getting stolen."
Redwood forest settings: Sanborn County Park provides camping under redwood canopies. "The camping is situated in a dreamy redwood forest," writes Amanda P. The park provides amenities to make transportation easier: "It's a short walk up a paved path from the parking to the campsites. The park provides carts to help with hauling gear, and storage boxes are provided at the site."
Fog-harvesting trees: Mount Madonna County Park creates unique natural phenomena. "This is the only place I've seen the redwood trees harvest the fog and make their own rain, which is pretty cool. In the morning it's raining under the redwood trees but not under the madrone or tan oak trees," explains April N. Temperature differences can be extreme: "It is a lot colder here than on the valley floor. Prepare for it to be 40deg colder than Gilroy or San Jose."
What you should know
Temperature fluctuations: Evening temperatures at Mount Madonna County Park require preparation. "We weren't prepared & had to drive into town & buy more clothes! Also, sometimes the fog whistles through on a stiff breeze so not only is it cold but also clammy wet," warns April N. Daytime and nighttime temperature differences can be substantial throughout the region.
Reservation challenges: Steep Ravine Campground requires significant advance planning. "Extremely hard to get a reservation. Can get very windy! Georgeous spot to pitch your tent on the ocean cliffs," advises Kelly S. The most sought-after glamping options near Union City often require booking immediately when reservation windows open.
Bathroom accessibility: Campground facilities vary greatly in terms of availability and condition. "When we got back to the park after a day out a little after 7PM, the code to the door was not working. We desperately needed to use the bathroom and shower," reports Christina S. about Pelican Point RV Park. Always have backup plans for restrooms when camping.
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground experiences varying noise levels. "We camped here for three nights over Fourth of July holiday... Because of the holiday and the proximity to Oakland/San Fran, the campground was in FULL EFFECT with a gang of variant families camp site hopping," explains Kathleen C. Weekday camping often provides quieter experiences for families seeking glamping options near Union City.
Kid-friendly activities: Mount Madonna County Park offers engaging wildlife features. "Near the ranger station there are pens with white fallow deer. They are descendants of the exotic zoo at William Randolph Hearst's mansion down the coast," shares April N. This provides educational opportunities for children without lengthy travel.
Site selection strategies: Rob Hill Campground offers group camping opportunities. "There are 4, 30 person, group sites. Pitch tent on wood chips. Level. Fire pits, water. Nice and close, yet feels a ways away," notes Dan H. This campground works well for larger family gatherings seeking glamping experiences near Union City, though at higher cost than other options.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing concerns: Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA has limited space between vehicles. "The pull through spaces are extremely tight to the point that our slide out was hitting vegetation and our neighbors awning was about two feet from our Rv," warns Andrea A. RVers should request specific information about site dimensions before booking.
Hookup positioning: Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground offers various hookup configurations. "Some RV spaces with hookups back right up to the sand/vegetation," reports Michell C. Sites with ocean views often have different hookup arrangements than standard interior sites.
Sanitation facilities: Sanborn County Park provides necessary amenities for RVers. "RV sites are basically parking lot with 4' strips of grass in between, But it was March and mostly empty. Tent sites are hike in up hill and nicely spaced in the woods," explains daren W., adding "Ranger was useless. You need codes for the gate after 7pm, the showers, and the RV dump and they don't volunteer that info, you have to ask."
